Antibacterial, antiviral and antimicrobial properties are just some of the cypress essential oil skin benefits you can experience when you use it as a natural remedy or treatment.

Compared to the likes of lavender and tea tree, cypress oil is one of the lesser-known essential oils, but that doesn't mean it isn’t as effective in its own way.

From easing muscle aches and healing infections to combating acne and warts, it’s an oil that has a lot to offer. In this article, we explain the cypress essential oil benefits for skin, offer suggestions on how best to use it and highlight some of the risks to look out for.

Cypress essential oil benefits for skin

Here are some of the most important cypress oil skin benefits to be aware of:

1. Antibacterial properties that can clear up the skin

Some experts believe that cypress essential oil could work well as a natural anti-acne agent. Whilst a 2014 study didn’t look at acne-causing bacteria, it did find that cypress oil did contain antibacterial properties. This means the oil may be able to combat bacteria in the pores and hair follicles when too much sebum has been produced on the surface of the skin.

2. Cypress oil can work as an astringent

Cypress oil can be useful as an astringent, helping to draw out excess oil and constrict the skin, which can reduce the look of prominent pores, making it ideal for people with acne. And compared to witch hazel – which is an oil known for its astringent properties - it is kinder and softer to the skin.

3. It could heal infections and wounds

The antiseptic properties offered by cypress oil could help to treat and heal infections and wounds. Because of its ability to stop the growth of bacteria, you can use it for internal and external wounds to prevent infections on the skin, which may help cuts to heal faster.

4. Helps to ease and relieve muscle aches and pains

Cypress oil is commonly used in massage therapy, as it can prove effective at easing muscle pain and reducing cramping, whilst stimulating circulation. And some experts believe it may be able to help combat cellulite (which is related to its ability to improve circulation), although there is currently no scientific research that can support these claims.

5. Contains antiviral potentially effective antiviral properties

Another study in 2015 produced positive results when using cypress oil to combat the herpes simplex virus, which is responsible for causing cold sores. Researchers also suggest that it may also prove useful against warts and human papillomavirus.

6. Relieves feelings of stress and anxiety

Whether diffused or applied topically, cypress oil can induce a relaxed and calm feeling, so if you are feeling stressed or anxious, it could make it easier to manage your thoughts and feelings. Some people use the oil to treat symptoms of insomnia or to cope with the aftereffects of recent shock or trauma.

7. It can be used to treat dandruff

The anti-fungal and antibacterial properties contained in cypress essential oil mean it could prove useful in treating dandruff. The fungus and bacteria responsible for the growth of dandruff can be eased with regular application of the oil, helping to relieve symptoms of itching and flaking on the scalp.

8. Use cypress oil as a natural cough suppressant

Cypress oil contains camphene, a molecule which you will typically find in herbal cough suppressants. Although there is no research to verify its effectiveness, many people inhale the oil to treat and ease cough symptoms. You can use the oil in a diffuser or add a few drops to a warm bath, allowing you to breathe in the oil’s potential aromatherapeutic benefits.

Are there any risks to using cypress oil for skin?

If you have sensitive skin, it is important to know that because it is an astringent, cypress oil may cause irritation and dryness. It is also possible to have an allergy to cypress oil, so if you are a first-time user, it is a good idea to complete a patch test.

A patch test involves applying a small amount of the oil to the inside of your elbow and covering it with a plaster for 24 hours. If you experience any redness, swelling, itching, pain or burning, it is highly likely you are having an allergic reaction, and you should wash the oil off your skin as soon as possible and discontinue use.

Cypress essential oil may not be as popular as some of the alternatives, but its wide range of health benefits could offer an effective alternative to traditional remedies and treatments. Dilute and apply to the skin, add to a bath or use the oil in a diffuser and use the oil to support the healing of wounds, acne or dandruff, or inhale the aromatherapeutic properties to calm a persistent cough. If you want to change up your skincare routine, then cypress oil could prove to be the unexpected addition you never knew you needed.