The Lowdown on Essential Oils
Table of Contents
Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts (obtained through distillation and other techniques). Each essence has a unique composition of chemicals which affects the smell, absorption, and reacts on the body differently. Despite being used in holistic rituals for centuries to support physical and emotional well-being, essential oils have been at the heart of passionate discussions over the past couple of years. Here's a guide to help you understand the value of essential oils and how to get the most of them.
More than aromatherapy: the various benefits of essential oils
Known for their mood-boosting value, essential oils infuse a sensory delight into your beauty and wellness routine. Essential oils can be highly concentrated in active compounds such as phenols and ketones, thus imparting them various properties, including antiviral, antibacterial, calming, analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. To make things easier, we divided them into 3 categories but some plant essences have multiple powers. This selection of oils has been tested in studies and reported as showing results in cosmetic science. (1)
Calming/Soothing/Healing/Balancing
Lavender, Chamomile, German Chamomile, Rose Centifolia, Lemon Verbena, Palmarosa, Geranium, and Clary Sage
Boosting/Uplifting/Invigorating/Regenerating/Protective
Neroli, Bergamot, Patchouli, Ylang-ylang, Sandalwood, Marjoram, Sweet Orange
Clarifying/Detoxifying/Astringent
Tea Tree, Rosemary, Lemongrass, Clove, Oregano, Thyme
Lavender, clove, and sandalwood have been shown to possess strong antimicrobial properties in the treatment of a P.acnes and S.epidermidis. (2) Tea tree has been used in vitro and performs better than benzoyl peroxide. (3) Citrus essential oils are safe to use once diluted, along with the suited dosage. (4) Due to their photosensitizing nature, it is recommended to follow up with sun protection or avoid sun exposing after use. This should not deter you though. Neroli for instance, is remarkable for dehydrated skin, but also in reducing marks and scarring. Marjoram is recommended for dry skin to smooth the skin, improve its elasticity and restore hydration.
Quality over quantity
Not all essentials oils are created equal. To fully enjoy the benefits and maximize the properties of a plant's essence, choosing a trusted source and superior quality makes all the difference. Organic is also a must for us at FEY. Essentials oils should only be included in a formulation if they provide authentic value to a product. Moreover, in order to truly appreciate the skin healing properties that essentials oils have to offer, it is key to determine which ones are suitable for your skin for topical application. Depending on the skin, the percentage of EO fluctuates from 2 to 5%.
At FEY, we strictly select organic essentials oils. Some of our favorites include Neroli, Patchouli, Lemon Verbena, Palmarosa, and Sunflower.
All in all, essentials oils can play a key part in the treatment of various lesions and visibly improve your skin health if they come unadulterated, pure and formulated with expertise and know-how.
We do recommend seeking medical advice if you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or suffering from a health condition before using essential oils.
1. L.O. ORAFIDIYA and al, 2002, Preliminary clinical tests on topical preparations of Ocimum gratissimum linn leaf essential oil for the treatment of acne vulgaris, Clinical Drug Investigation, Vol. 22, No. 5.
2. A. ORCHARD – S. VAN VUUREN, 2017, Commercial Essential Oils as Potential Antimicrobials to Treat Skin Disease, Hindawi Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, Vol. 2017.
3. I. B. BASSETT and al, 1990, A comparative study of tea-tree oil versus benzoyl peroxide in the treatment of acne, Medical Journal of Australia, Vol.153, No.8.
4. Essential oils used in aromatherapy: A systemic review by Babar Ali, Naser Ali Al-Wabel, Saiba Shams, Aftab Ahamad, Shah Alam Khan, Firoz Anwar