An iconic purple flower known for its soothing scent, lavender has been a darling of the aromatherapy world for generations. Good for more than just adding to bubble baths or taking photos for Instagram feeds, lavender oil can also nourish and calm our skin.
In this article, we'll take you through what lavender oil is, where it comes from, lavender oil benefits for skin, and how to incorporate it into your skincare routine.
IN A NUTSHELL
Ingredient Category: Essential oil.
Main Benefits: Lavender oil has a calming, soothing effect on both the skin and senses.
Find It In: Eyes Eyes Baby Anti-Aging Eye Cream
What Is Lavender Oil? Where Is It From?
A flowering plant native to the Mediterranean, lavender is part of the mint family. Lavender oil is a concentrated liquid derived from the plant's vibrant, sweetly-scented flowers. Used for centuries for its lovely floral fragrance, lavender oil has de-stressing properties, is great for dry skin, and even can be used as insect repellent. Talk about versatility!
It's important to note that essential oils like lavender oil are incredibly potent. While lavender oil is generally well-tolerated by most people, there are still some out there who are allergic to it. As with anything else, always do a small patch before applying it all over to ensure your skin agrees with it. And never ingest anything for medicinal purposes without consulting your doctor first. It's also toxic to pets, so keep it stored safely away from your furry friends.
Lavender Oil Benefits for Skin
It protects against environmental stressors. Linalool and linalyl acetate, two of lavender oil's biggest components, are both antioxidants that protect your skin. This is one of the reasons why it is featured in our Eyes Eyes Baby eye cream.
It soothes and calms skin. With cleansing and purifying properties that help rid of germs and other nuisances that aggravate the skin, lavender oil calms irritated skin.
It uplifts and comforts the senses. Don't discount the fact that the scent of lavender can also soothe and uplift your spirit. Your skin benefits when your entire being feels good, too.
How to Use Lavender Oil for Skin
Unlike many other essential oils, it's safe to apply lavender oil directly to your skin with your fingers or a clean cotton ball. Since it works well in tandem with other ingredients, it's even better when diluted in a carrier substance to provide added benefits and greater absorption. It pairs perfectly with fatty oils like grapeseed, coconut, and jojoba.
You can also use lavender oil in a facial steamer, or add a drop or two to your moisturizer or face mask.
If you're not interested in going the DIY route, there are many skincare products that feature lavender oil available. That includes eye creams– like our very own Eyes Eyes Baby – toners, moisturizers, facial cleansers, soaps, and oils.
Ready to incorporate lavender oil into your skincare routine? The oil is readily available for purchase at an apothecary or health foods market near you; or, reach for our best-selling eye cream and breathe in the lovely scent of lavender while it treats your skin.
