The Lowdown on Essential Oils

Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts (obtained through distillation and other techniques). Each essence has a unique composition of aromatic compounds that shapes its scent, how it absorbs and how skin responds to it. 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 in recent years. Here's a guide to help you understand what essential oils bring to skincare and how to enjoy them safely.

 

More than aromatherapy: what essential oils bring to skincare

Known for their mood-boosting value, essential oils infuse a sensory delight into your beauty and wellness routine. Essential oils are rich in aromatic compounds such as terpenes, phenols and ketones, which give each one its character. In skincare, they are valued for their scent and for how they help skin look and feel. To make things easier, we grouped them into 3 families, though many plant essences belong to more than one.

 

Calming and comforting

Lavender, Chamomile, German Chamomile, Rose Centifolia, Lemon Verbena, Palmarosa, Geranium, and Clary Sage

Uplifting and revitalizing

Neroli, Bergamot, Patchouli, Ylang-ylang, Sandalwood, Marjoram, Sweet Orange

Clarifying and purifying

Tea Tree, Rosemary, Lemongrass, Clove, Oregano, Thyme

 

Citrus essential oils such as bergamot and sweet orange are pleasant to use once properly diluted, but they can make skin more sensitive to the sun: apply sun protection or avoid sun exposure after use. This should not deter you though. Neroli, for instance, is a favourite for dehydrated-looking skin and a more even-looking complexion, and marjoram helps dry skin feel smoother, softer and more supple.

 

Quality over quantity

Not all essential 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 non-negotiable for us at FEY. Essential oils should only be included in a formulation if they provide authentic value to a product. Moreover, to get the most from essential oils on your skin, choose the ones that suit your skin type, and always use them diluted, at a low percentage adapted to the product.

At FEY, we strictly select organic essential oils. Some of our favourites include neroli, patchouli, lemon verbena and palmarosa.

All in all, essential oils can bring real sensory pleasure to your routine and help your skin look and feel its best when they are pure, unadulterated and formulated with expertise and know-how.

Never apply undiluted essential oils to your skin, and do a patch test before trying a new one. If you're pregnant, breastfeeding or have a health condition, ask a health professional before using essential oils.

Further reading: Essential oils used in aromatherapy: A systemic review, B. Ali et al., Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine, 2015.

 

Shop FEY Skincare

Discover our BRUME refreshing body and hair mist, lightly scented with lemon verbena essential oil, or pair it with ACQUA in the All-in-One Hydration Duo and save 25%. Prefer to choose? Build your own routine with the Build Your Own Beauty Bundle. FEY skincare is made in Montréal, Canada.