PURE BEAUTY

Did YouKnow? An added benefit to many of these beauty oils is that their harvesting provides economic opportunities for struggling communities in remote villages. E xotic oils from the far corners of the world are fueling the beauty oil craze. They’re highly versatile—you can mix a few drops into your regular moisturizer or hair conditioner, add them to a bath, or simply use them as-is. And they’re concentrated, so you need only a few drops. To insure that you’re purchasing high-quality oils, Tammie Umbel, founder of Shea Terra Organics, says, “Look for oils that are unrefined to maximize their benefits. They should have color and an herbal aroma. Expensive oils are often cut with inferior quality oils. Argan oil, for example, is often cut with sunflower oil. Choose oils from companies that buy straight from the source and can provide information about the origins and production of their oil.”

An added benefit to many of these beauty oils is that their harvesting and processing provides economic opportunities for struggling communities in remote villages. The conservation of these valuable plants and trees also protects wildlife habitats. Here are five exotic oils to try: ❋ Black Seed Oil: Made from the Nigella sativa plant and revered by ancient Egyptians, this spicy oil is used both topically and internally. It’s packed with antibacterial and antifungal phytochemicals, as well as essential fatty acids that promote skin healing. Massage into irritated skin to soften and decrease inflammation. Rub a few drops into your scalp to stimulate hair growth.

Nourish, smooth, and soften the appearance of dry skin with Andalou Naturals Kukui Body Butter with Argan Oil.

Soften and smooth skin, hair, and cuticles, and soothe the senses with Acure Radically Rejuvenating Rose Argan Oil.

Gently clean and exfoliate skin with Nubian Heritage Honey & Black Seed Bar Soap. Black seed, wild honey, and shea butter help retain moisture while cleansing.

Get benefits both internally and topically with Heritage Store Cold-Pressed Black Seed Oil.

Calm rashes and sun damage, treat acne and scars, and prevent wrinkles with Aura Cacia Nourishing Tamanu Oil.

❋ Tamanu Oil: Truly a medicine cabinet in a bottle, this multipurpose oil is derived from the nuts of the Calophyllum inophyllum tree, which is native to Africa, Asia, and the South Pacific. It’s anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal, and is effective for sunburns, rashes, insect bites, wounds, acne, scars, wrinkles, and dry skin.

❋ Marula seed oil: Collected from the nuts of the African marula tree, the lychee-like marula fruit produces pink oil that is rich in fatty acid and antioxidants. This oil helps repair sun-damaged and aging skin.

❋ Pomegranate seed oil: Native to the Middle East and Mediterranean, pomegranate seed oil has powerful anti-inflammatory powers. Studies suggest it may help prevent skin cancer by inhibiting enzymes that assist in cancer cell formation.

❋ Argan Oil: The argan plant is found only in a small region of Morocco. A close relative of the shea tree, argan fruit kernels produce an oil that is high in vitamin E and other antioxidants, plus hydrating fatty acids. Argan helps moisturize and nourish skin, nails, and hair.