Hydrating your skin after summer is essential to combat premature aging. Sun, saltwater, and heat dehydrate the skin and can cause long-term damage. UV rays harm cellular tissue, break down collagen, and dry out the epidermal layer, making it thinner and less toned. Fortunately, nature provides powerful oils to revitalize the skin after sun exposure. In this article, we explore the benefits of extra virgin olive oil, St. John’s wort oil, bay leaf oil, and rosemary oil, along with a DIY recipe that you can easily incorporate into your daily skincare routine.

Olive Oil: Deep skin hydration

Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) offers deep skin hydration. Rich in oleic acid and vitamin E, it strengthens the skin’s surface layer, preventing moisture loss. Its antioxidant properties also reduce oxidative stress caused by UV exposure. By restoring elasticity and hydration, EVOO slows down skin aging and the deepening of wrinkles. Besides these long-term benefits, EVOO provides an immediate effect, giving the skin a natural glow after just a few days of regular application.

St. John’s Wort Oil: Healing from within

St. John’s wort oil is renowned for its healing properties, especially effective for skin damaged by excessive sun exposure. Its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce redness and irritation, promoting faster healing of damaged skin. The oil also possesses antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial properties. Use St. John’s wort oil after sun exposure and thoroughly rinse your skin before further sun exposure, as it is photosensitive. Learn more about its healing benefits here.

Bay Leaf Oil: Skin revitalization

Bay leaf oil is not a common ingredient in facial creams and serums, but it holds great potential for skin revitalization. Rich in vitamins A and C, it stimulates cell regeneration. Its antimicrobial properties cleanse the skin and can prevent acne breakouts after summer. In addition to revitalizing skin, bay leaf oil is also beneficial for hair care, adding shine and softness. The base oil for bay leaf is olive oil, and we, of course, used Chiavalon extra virgin olive oil.

Rosemary Oil: Stimulating and refreshing

Rosemary oil boosts circulation and has diuretic properties that reduce puffiness around the eyes. It tones the skin, giving it a firmer and more radiant appearance. Besides facial care, rosemary oil is used to combat cellulite by stimulating the lymphatic system and promoting toxin removal. Its most popular use, however, is for hair growth, a major trend on TikTok. Dr. Shilpi Khetarpal from the Cleveland Clinic has explained the benefits of rosemary oil for hair health. Chiavalon combines rosemary and bay leaf oil for enhanced effects and easier application.

A Holistic Approach to skin hydration after summer

Combining natural oils creates a holistic approach to skincare, meeting multiple needs simultaneously. Extra virgin olive oil serves as the base, providing deep hydration and protection. St. John’s wort oil heals and soothes, bay leaf oil rejuvenates and revitalizes, and rosemary oil stimulates and tones. Together, these four precious oils can restore your skin’s balance and vitality after summer.

DIY Magic oil mix for the face

For those who enjoy natural cosmetics, creating a DIY facial oil is a simple way to provide your skin with the best of Mediterranean herbs.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon St. John’s wort oil
• 10 drops bay leaf and rosemary oil

Instructions:

1. Mix the oils in a small glass bottle
2. Shake well to combine
3. After your evening facial cleansing, apply 2-3 drops of the oil mixture to your fingertips
4. Massage into the face and neck using upward circular motions
5. Allow the oil to absorb before applying your moisturizer

Note:

If you have sensitive skin, test a small amount behind your ear and wait 24 hours before applying it to your entire face. The oil mix works best at night when the skin’s natural repair processes are most active. Remember to cleanse your skin thoroughly in the morning before sun exposure and always use sunscreen—your skin will thank you.

CONCLUSION

Hydrating your skin after summer goes beyond addressing immediate dryness or irritation; it involves protecting the overall health of all skin layers. By incorporating EVOO, St. John’s wort oil, bay leaf oil, and rosemary oil into your daily routine, you can effectively counteract the damaging effects of the summer months. These oils work synergistically to hydrate, heal, and revitalize your skin, providing a healthy, glowing complexion all year round.