Essential Oil

Categories: Plant Extracts, Antioxidants

Essential Oil Skin Benefits:
Antioxidant
Astringent

Essential oils are a staple to skincare remedies. They are most commonly utilized in the production of cosmetic products, as well as for fragrance purposes. Extracted from plant material, essential oils consist of water-insoluble, volatile compounds. Although typically found in liquid form, essential oils can also exist in either solid or semi-solid form, varying by temperature. Due to their similar polarities, essential oils are capable of dissolving in mediums such as oils, fats, and alcohol. Consequently, they can mix with lipids present on the skin’s surface, which help to provide essential oil benefits for skin. ¹

There exists a wide variety of essential oils, each with its own unique combination of benefits for skin. Amongst the more prominent essential oil skin benefits is the ability to provide antioxidant protection. Topical application of essential oils on skin can help to reduce the amount of oxidative stress found on the skin’s surface by neutralizing harmful free-radicals present in the environment. For this reason, it is advised that essential oils be stored in a dark bottle and away from sunlight, so as to prevent unwanted oxidation that may corrupt product integrity. Lastly, depending on the method of extraction, certain essential oils can also possess constituents, such as alcohols and terpenes, which may enable minor astringent properties for additional skincare protection. ^{1 2}

1. Lawless, J. The Encyclopedia of essential oils: the complete guide to the use of aromatic oils in aromatherapy, herbalism, health, and well being. Conari Press (2013)
2. Tisserand, R. and Young, R. Essential oil safety: a guide for health care professionals. Elsevier Health Sciences (2013)