Body Oils have been used since the time of Ancient Egyptians when, according to texts, they used to blend fragrant herbs into specially prepared olive oil and massage it all over their bodies. Since then, scented oils have proven to harbour a multitude of uses, from being an essential part of aromatherapy to treating a wide variety of medical complaints.
With the rise of wellness and self-care, body oils are gaining traction within the beauty industry once again, for their super-charged hydrating and nourishing properties.
But there are so many other reasons to love body oils – in their simplest form they are a great way to nourish the skin and a way to instantly alter one’s mood for the better. To cater to the conscious consumer who still loves a pampering product, Weleda have a range of eight different body oils that are all certified natural by NATRUE, and are free from parabens, phthalates, synthetic preservatives and fragrances. The oils are made from purely natural ingredients such as sun-ripened fruit and plant seed oils that allow the skin to breathe, whilst keeping it nourished, smooth and supple.
And if there’s one brand to trust when it comes to body oils, its this one. Weleda has over 90 years of expertise in the category, in fact, the Arnica Massage Oil was launched in 1926 and continues to be a best seller today.
To find out more about the range we spoke to Weleda naturopath and trainer Liezel Barnard who gave some irrefutable reasons as to why these products should be front and center of your upcoming beauty pages.
The how and the why
Let's examine the skin benefits first. Body oils are highly compatible to human skin. Why? Because the composition of the unsaturated fatty acids in the plant oils within, are very similar to the free fatty acids found in skin sebum.
"The combination of the unsaturated fatty acids, Vitamin E and other fat-soluble antioxidants in plant oils give them powerful anti-ageing and anti-inflammatory properties," says Barnard.
"Plant oils help to form a protective layer on the skin, improving the skin barrier function. An improved barrier function means that the skin is protected from moisture loss from the inside and it is also protected from microbes, allergens and harmful chemicals from the outside," she continues.
Further to the hydrating benefits, certain Weleda Body Oils will reduce the appearance of stretch marks, soothe irritated skin, firm, and help encourage skin renewal.
Fragrance therapy
When it comes to fragrance and emotions, there is a very strong connection between the two. Fragrance therapy, or aromatherapy as it is commonly known, is the art and science of smell – when the simple inhalation of a certain aroma can give a brighter outlook and rejuvenate energy.
Here Barnard gives a breakdown of some of the scents and examples of when they can be used.
First thing in the morning
The revitalising scent of grapefruit and sweet mandarin in the feather light Sea Buckthorn Replenishing Body Oil will leave you feeling alert and happy.
Sore and tight muscles after exercise
The aromatic fragrance of Arnica Massage Oil combines warming and invigorating rosemary to stimulate blood flow and lavender to relax the muscles.
Everyday indulgence
Pomegranate Regenerating Body Oil has a rich texture to care for dry skin with sensual, feminine scents of orange, davana and vanilla essential oils.
Me time
Treat yourself to special moments of indulgence with the precious scent of Damascus rose and ylang-ylang in the Wild Rose Body Oil. Rose essential oil is associated with the heart chakra, awakening our capacity for love and compassion towards ourselves and others.
When you skin feels as dry as the Nullarbor
The extra-rich Evening Primrose Age Revitalising Body Oil intensively nourishes the skin and improves its firmness and tone, with the scents of earthy sandalwood, floral magnolia and a hint of cardamom.
Winding down
The aromatic fragrance of lavender essential oil helps you to find your inner balance and has a calming effect. At the end of a stressful day, gently massage your body with the feather light Lavender Relaxing Body Oil to facilitate a peaceful sleep.
A post-bath ritual
The body oils will be most effective when applied after a bath or shower, advises Barnard, while the skin is still warm and damp to allow for maximum absorption. A good timesaver tip, she recommends, is to apply the oil when your skin is still completely wet and then gently pat your skin dry with a towel. Thanks to the new and convenient pump dispenser, application of the oils couldn’t be easier.
"Those with dry to very dry skin will often find that body oil doesn’t penetrate their skin adequately," Barnard adds, "A very gentle exfoliation once a week will help to remove the build-up of dead skin cells and allow for better skin absorption."
Once it's applied, the oil will work its magic on the skin while providing a soothing scent to help alleviate stress and generate positive feelings. If that's not a reason to embrace the good golden liquid, we don't know what is.
For more information and to download hi-res images, visit the brand listing.
Produced in partnership with Weleda.