This treatment is suitable for any skin type, even oily-skinned people who tend to think they should avoid putting oil on their face. Actually, an aromatherapy facial can help bring problem skin into balance. When you give the skin oil, it pets a signal that it doesn't need to produce as much. If you dry out the skin [with harsh cleansers], it gets a signal it needs to produce more.

What You'll need:

5 to 10 drops essential oil (see note)
1 oz. base oil, such as jojoba,
macadamia nut or hazelnut
Although you easily can give easily yourself a facial massage, it'll be more relaxing if you have a partner do it. Clean your face. Mix the essential oil and base oil together. Jojoba is nice because it's similar to sebum, the waxy substance produced by the skin; if you prefer something lighter, try macadamia nut or hazelnut oil.

Using your fingertips in circular motions, spread the oil over your face; go slowly and gently and avoid pulling the skin. After a few minutes of this, you can stimulate various acupressure points on the face (see page 62). Apply pressure to each point with a fingertip for 5 seconds, then gently tap the point 3 times. Rinse face if desired.

NOTE: The essential oil you use depends on your skin type. Chamomile or lavender will soothe the irritation of dry skin, and peppermint or rosemary can stimulate oil production. Try using a combination of these two types of oils. Basil, eucalyptus, lemon grass and ylang-ylang are good for oily skin, because they help normalize overactive sebaceous glands. Lucky enough to have normal skin? Try rose, geranium or neroli.