Introduction
Neem oil has been used since ancient times for various purposes including treating wounds, burns, cuts, insect bites, and even snakebites. The benefits of neem oil for the skin contains many nutrients such as vitamins A, and B complex vitamins, iron, calcium, zinc, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, copper, manganese, selenium, and protein. It is one of the most effective natural remedies for many skin problems. Neem oil is great for treating skin problems. It is available online, in health food stores, and in drugstores. It is also very affordable.
One of the major benefits of Neem oil for the skin helps prevent dandruff, dry scalp, and seborrhea. It also reduces itching and irritation caused by fungal infections. Studies show that neem oil works better than shampoos and conditioners against body odor. It also prevents acne breakouts and promotes healthy hair growth.
Neem oil is safe for use on all parts of the body including the face, hands, feet, nails, lips, and eyes. It does not cause any harmful reactions. However, if you are allergic to some plants, you should avoid using neem oil.
It is known for its many medicinal uses. Neem oil contains high amounts of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. It is commonly used for treating wounds, burns, cuts, scrapes, insect bites, rashes, acne, psoriasis, eczema, dermatitis, and even sunburn. It is native to India and Southeast Asia. In Ayurvedic medicine, neem oil is considered sacred and holy. It is often used to treat leprosy, diabetes, cancer, asthma, arthritis, gout, ulcers, and digestive problems.
Neem oil comes in two forms: cold-pressed and steam distilled. Cold pressing involves using mechanical pressure to extract the oil from the seed without heating it. Steam distillation requires heating the seed until the oil separates from the seed. Both methods produce similar results.
Benefits of Neem Oil For Skin And Hair
The first benefit of using neem oil for the skin is its anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation occurs when the immune system sends white blood cells to fight off foreign invaders. When inflammation becomes chronic, it causes redness, swelling, itching, pain, and sometimes scarring. Neem oil helps reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of inflammatory chemicals called prostaglandins.
Prostaglandins cause irritation and pain in the skin and mucous membranes. They also increase capillary permeability, which means they make the skin look redder than normal. Neem oil works to prevent these effects by reducing the number of prostaglandins produced in the body.
Another benefits of neem oil for skin treatment is its antibacterial properties. Many bacteria live on our bodies without causing any harm. However, some types of bacteria can become harmful if not treated properly. Bacteria can infect open sores, ulcers, abscesses, boils, and infected cuts. Neem oil kills bacteria by interfering with their DNA synthesis. This prevents them from reproducing and multiplying.
Finally, neem oil is good for treating acne. Clogged pores allow dirt and dead skin cells to enter the bloodstream. Dead skin cells attract bacteria, which then multiply and produce toxins that irritate the surrounding area. Neem oil reduces the size of pores and cleans out debris inside the pore. It also treats blackheads and whiteheads by opening the pores and removing excess oils.
- Anti-bacterial – Neem oil kills bacteria and fungi. It helps prevent infections and keeps your body clean.
- Antioxidants – Neem oil contains powerful antioxidants that protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals cause aging and premature wrinkles.
- Healing – Neem oil promotes healing and reduces inflammation. It speeds up wound healing and relieves pain.
- Moisture Retention – Neem oil attracts moisture to the surface of your skin. It makes your skin feel soft and supple.
- Sun Protection – Neem oil blocks harmful UV rays and prevents sunburns. It also protects from UVA and UVB rays.
Neem Oil Skin Care Uses
Neem oil is commonly applied topically to treat acne scars, eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, and various types of burns. It also works well as a natural toner and moisturizer. It is safe and non-toxic, making it ideal for use on babies and children. Neem oil is often mixed with aloe vera gel, oatmeal, honey, coconut oil, olive oil, and vitamin E for topical treatments.
What Happens When We Put Neem Oil On Face Overnight?
You should not use neem oil directly on the face but rather mix it with coconut oil or olive oil and apply it overnight before going to bed. This way it absorbs easily into your skin and leaves no greasy feeling. When applied directly to the skin, neem oil penetrates deep into the pores and works to cleanse the skin. It also reduces the redness and irritation caused by acne. When we apply neem oil over our faces, then some things happen.
- The second benefit of neem oil for the skin is it acts as a moisturizer.
- It removes dead cells from the skin.
- Neem prevents blackheads and whiteheads.
- It gives an instant glow to your skin.
Are There Any Neem Oil Side Effects On Skin?
Yes, there are some side effects if you use too much neem oil. Allergy may occur due to excessive usage. Other minor side effects include headaches and rashes. There are no known adverse reactions to using neem oil. However, if you experience any allergic reaction after applying neem oil, discontinue use immediately.
Neem oil comes in two forms – liquid and solid (aka capsules). Both types work great for topical use. If you want to try out neem oil, here are some tips to get started.
- Start small. Apply only a few drops at first. You may notice a slight burning sensation if you apply too much.
- Use a cotton ball to rub onto the affected area. Do not put it directly on the skin.
- Avoid contact with eyes.
- Do not ingest.
- Store in a cool place away from sunlight.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- If pregnant/breastfeeding consults a doctor before using.
Neem Oil For Pigmentation
Neem oil is one of the best natural remedies for dark spots and blemishes. It is especially helpful for those who suffer from melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and age spots. Neem oil is effective in treating dark spots on the skin. It lightens sunspots and freckles, too. Neem oil treats age spots by reducing their appearance and making them less noticeable. It also removes unwanted discoloration and gives skin a radiant glow.
