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Mainstream skin care products are often packed with unnatural ingredients in addition to natural oils and extracts. These synthetic chemicals can cause allergic reactions in more sensitive skin, and can be absorbed through skin and nails. Many fruit oils are great skin care alternatives. Packed full of naturally occurring vitamins, fats and nutrients, these oils tend to nourish skin without harsh side effects.
Avocado oil is often a primary ingredient in natural moisturizers, sunscreens, lotions and cleansing creams. The fruit oil, which is collected by cold-pressing the avocados, has low levels of acidity and is very easy on the skin. It is also slow to oxidize, meaning that it keeps for months as long as it is stored in a cool, dark place. Avocado oil is one of the best fruit oils for skin care because it contains a high concentration of vitamins A, D and E. These vitamins help the oil penetrate the skin easily and moisturize it thoroughly. Pure avocado oil can be found at many natural food stores.
Coconut oil is a semisolid oil so rich in fat that it has lathering properties. It is most often found in natural soaps and body washes, though massage therapists also often use it as a massage oil because it is highly moisturizing and does not stain cloth materials. Applying a small amount of coconut oil to dry, cracked skin can soften and protect the damaged areas while they heal. This is because the fruit oil is so high in fat that it does not soak into the skin as readily as many moisturizers with synthetic ingredients. Coconut oil forms a protective coating over the skin, moisturizing as it slowly absorbs. It is most ideal for extremely dry areas, such as heels, lips and elbows. Pure coconut oil for skin care purposes can be purchased at health food stores and from herb suppliers.
Pomegranate oil is rich saturated with antioxidants, which have powerful anti-aging properties. The oil is most often found in anti-aging creams and serums, because many scientists believe it reduces signs of wrinkles, firms skin and promotes collagen production. The skin care fruit oil is derived from the pomegranate's seeds and its purest form is not very common in most beauty outlets because it can be expensive. Pure pomegranate oil is usually sold at larger health food stores and stores that specialize in natural beauty products. However, a small amount of pomegranate oil goes a long way, so even natural creams and serums that contain the oil should still produce results.
Katie Leigh is a freelance writer and editor based in Chicago. A Loyola University New Orleans graduate with a Bachelor's degree in communications, Leigh has worked as a copy editor, page designer and reporter for several daily newspapers and specialty publications since 2005.
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