4 min read / 22 August 2023 / Laura Garvin Gomez
Benefits of Rosemary Oil for Skin
Explore the transformative effects of rosemary oil, as we delve into its myriad benefits for achieving radiant and healthy skin.
Potentially as far back as the shrub was discovered, people have been using rosemary oil for skin to enjoy its many health benefits.
Of course, the plant is an integral part of countless cooking recipes, with its distinct aromatic flavour and scent proving to be a transformative ingredient.
And the same could be true for anyone thinking of using rosemary oil for their skincare routines.
To make things a little clearer about its potential, we look at how it could improve the condition of your skin, the best ways to use the oil and more.
Is rosemary oil good for skin?There are several rosemary benefits for skin you can enjoy with regular application, from fighting acne breakouts to reducing under-eye bags. Here are some of the most notable: 1. Use it to smooth out fine linesRosemary oil is rich in antioxidants, which helps to protect the skin against harmful free radicals and environmental pollutants. These are usually the reasons why skin might start to feel saggy or you notice the appearance of fine lines. Adding rosemary essential oil to skin creams or applying a diluted mix to your skin can help combat these signs of ageing. 2. Rosemary oil can help to combat acneIf you experience an acne breakout on your skin, rosemary’s antibacterial properties could prove useful in preventing bacteria from getting into your pores. By cleaning out the pores in combination with its non-comedogenic properties, it can work to minimise breakouts and potentially prevent them from happening in the future. 3. Tightens up your skin toneWhether it's from too much exposure to the elements or just the natural passing of time, you may notice that the pores of your skin have increased in size. You can use rosemary oil to shrink the pores, which will tighten the appearance of your complexion. If you have naturally oily skin this could be the ideal natural solution to use in combination with existing cosmetic products. 4. Can reduce under-eye bagsA buildup of fluid in the tissue beneath the eye is the reason it can look puffy in the morning. The diuretic properties contained in rosemary oil can help to remove this fluid, reducing the appearance of unsightly bags, lowering puffiness and swelling and smoothing out the skin and easing congestion. 5. Apply to the skin to reduce inflammationAnyone managing skin conditions like rosacea or eczema can find it difficult to find the right balance when it comes to cosmetic products. The anti-inflammatory properties found in rosemary may be able to help, potentially minimising the redness caused by these skin conditions. When combined with the antibacterial and antioxidant properties, it provides all-round protection for the skin. 6. It may be able to remove celluliteThe build up of cellulite beneath the skin can possibly be removed through regular application of rosemary oil. The lymphatic system is aided by the oil, making it easier to wash away waste and toxins that can affect the skin’s ability to stay healthy and regenerate over time. 7. Use it as a natural deodorantRosemary oil is commonly used in cosmetic cleaning products as its strong fragrance can combat natural odours. When benign bacteria living on your skin consume the nutrients you sweat out, this can cause body odours to appear. The antibacterial properties contained in rosemary oil can fight off these bacteria and prevent it from releasing odorous compounds. |
How to use rosemary oil for skin
There are quite a few ways you use rosemary oil for your skin, including:
- Diluting with a carrier oil and applying directly to your skin.
- Adding a diluting mixture to a warm bath and letting it soak into your pores.
- Mix rosemary oil with your favourite cosmetic skin product and apply as normal.
- Use it as part of a homemade essential oil spray and spritz onto your skin as needed.
- Include it in a soap recipe and use as part of your daily cleansing routine.
Like all essential oils, rosemary oil is highly concentrated and should always be diluted before applying it to your skin.
Can I ingest rosemary essential oil?
Rosemary essential oil can be ingested – provided the product is clearly marked as food grade.
Not all essential oils are suitable for ingestion, so you should always read the label to ensure it is safe to do so.
At Nikura, we do not sell food grade essential oil, so any of the oils you purchase from us should not be digested, and application instructions provided should be carefully followed.
Are there any side effects of using rosemary oil for skin?
The two main things to avoid with rosemary oil are using it in an undiluted form, and adding large amounts in individual applications.
The oil is highly concentrated in its pure form, as it is extracted from a natural source, so it should always be used carefully and in proportion.
However, even if diluted and used carefully, there is still a small chance that the oil could cause irritation or an allergic reaction, especially on people with sensitive skin.
The best way to protect yourself is to carry out a patch test, if you are a first-time user.
Simply add 1-2 diluted drops to the inside of your elbow and cover with a plaster for 24 hours.
If you experience any inflammation, itchiness, redness or irritation, wash the oil off using warm soapy water and discontinue use.
The antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties contained in rosemary oil make it the perfect complementary solution to add to your skincare routine.
It blends in easily with a wide range of cosmetic products, or you can apply a diluted mixture directly onto your skin, as part of a warm bath, or even as a spray.
Only digest the oil if you purchase a food grade product and take care to follow the application instructions provided to safeguard your skin.
