It seems like every Asian skin care advertisement to have been made to panders those in pursuit of a bright, dewy complexion while Caucasians lust after a soft, supple glow. Wherever you are from, the key ingredient to universally desirable skin boils down to moisture.

Moisture is essential to a radiant complexion; our skin cells die without it, resulting in rough, grey-cast skin. Because of osmosis, water is constantly trying to escape from our skin. Thankfully, a layer of fat lies under our epidermis, trapping water molecules and keeping them from reaching the surface our skin.

It therefore makes sense that by applying the right types of oils on our skin, especially when it is damp, we are sealing in hydration. Open pores also help with the absorption of the accompanying benefits of the oil.

In selecting an essential oil to combat dry skin, choose one that does the following.

Balances Natural Sebum Levels

Essential oils like Palmarosa and Neroli help to maintain an optimum level of sebum in the skin. This locks in moisture while ensuring that there is not excessive amounts of it to cause other skin problems.

Regulates Hormones

Hormones disseminate instructions to our cells. When they are in disarray, our bodily functions deviate from the way they are supposed to operate. Such functions include the production of hyaluronic acid and collagen, which keep our skin looking plump and hydrated. Hormones also regulate sebum production. Rose, Frankincense, Patchouli, Geranium and Jasmine are known for their ability to balance hormones.

Encourages Skin Regeneration

This means that dried-up cells will be shed to reveal new, more elastic skin. Oils with such cytophylactic properties include Geranium, Neroli, Patchouli and Palmarosa.

Essential oils are potent and not recommended for use in large doses. Mix them with nutrient-rich carrier oils that tout their own skin-loving benefts.