Flax (also known as linseed) is chock full of healthy essential fatty acids that can reduce inflammation and regulate hormones when taken internally. But did you know applying flaxseed oil on your skin can produce the same benefits?
On Your Face
The high omega-3 content of the oil is anti-inflammatory, which can quell acne breakouts, and irritated, dry skin. And the oil also seals in moisture, keeping skin hydrated and healthy, which can firm up skin, minimizing wrinkles, dark spots and puffiness. Flax oil can be massaged directly into freshly cleaned, still slightly damp skin or adding a few drops of flax oil can improve the function of your moisturizer. Try making this easy DIY Homemade Facial Mask with Flax seed Oil to calm and tone skin.  Additionally, flax oil makes an excellent, non-irritating make-up remover.
On Your Body
The benefits of using flax oil on your face can be applied to the rest of your body as well. Flax oil can seal in moisture and protect skin from dryness and irritation. There is also some evidence, according to Dr. Jeffery Benabio of Physician Director of Healthcare Transformation in San Diego, CA, that flax oil can be used to treat skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema, which are thought to be linked to a deficiency in omega-3 fatty acids. There is evidence that flax oil can protect against sun damage as well. You can grind up a few flax seeds and mix with oil to make a hydrating body scrub, or try this recipe for Flax Skin Lotion.
On Your Head
Massaging flaxseed oil into your scalp once a week or as needed can relieve dandruff and itching, and is especially nice for seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis and eczema suffers. You can add 1-2 teaspoons to your regular conditioner, or apply it directly to your scalp. Added bonus: the oil can help maintain the moisture content of hair, creating lustrous, healthy hair follicles! Try making this great flax seed hair gel to get the nourishing benefits of flax, and soft style hold all at once.
Don’t forget to check out these great recipes for incorporating flax into your diet to get beauty benefits from flax both inside and out!
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I\’m all for use of organic natural oils. I\’m into virgin and pure coconut oil soap bars by Positively Flawless myself. I think nothing beats coconut oil\’s anti-oxidant (therefore anti-aging), anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, nourishing, moisturizing and hydrating properties.