Beyond its delightful aroma, there is a lot more that could be gained through the regular application of rosewood essential oil.

From easing feelings of anxiety and stress to working as an antioxidant, researchers continue to suggest rosewood essential oil skin benefits that could help people enjoy a better quality of life.

Rosewood oil may be light in fragrance but its potential antibacterial, antiseptic and antioxidant properties suggest it could make a real difference to the overall condition of your skin. Here we look at the suggested benefits, how to use it and what to look out for in general.

What are the rosewood essential oil benefits for skin?

Here are some of the rosewood essential oil benefits for skin that you may be able to enjoy when it has been diluted correctly using a carrier oil:

1. Rosewood may work as an antioxidant

According to a study published in 2020, rosewood oil may contain antioxidant properties that can combat free radicals. Applying the oil topically may help to prevent harm caused to cells by these types of toxins, benefiting your health overall.

2. It could contain both antibacterial and antiseptic properties

The presence of linalool in rosewood oil suggests that the oil contains antibacterial properties, offering protection against a host of bacteria strains. This was found to be the case in other essential oils that have strong cleaning properties. A study conducted in 2019 found that it may be able to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria, potentially offering a natural solution for patients who are not achieving the desired results using traditional medicine.

3. Heals damaged and dry skin

Our skin is constantly fighting against external pollutants and irritants that can damage and affect its complexion. Topical application of rosewood oil can help to regenerate the tissue to restore vitality and elasticity to the skin. And for anyone with eczema or acne, it may offer some form of soothing natural relief by cooling the skin to ease itchiness and inflammation.

4. Offers a sense of calm and relief

The soft floral fragrance produced by rosewood oil can help you to relax and unwind, calming feelings of stress and anxiety. Whether applied topically or diffused, the fragrance can work as a natural antidepressant (although not as a replacement for those taking medicated treatments), which may also benefit those who struggle to unwind and sleep at night.

How to apply and use rosewood essential oil for skin

You can apply rosewood oil in a few different ways to benefit your skin. Try some of the following to see how it works for you:

• Skin protection: For skin that has been damaged by UV rays, wind and other environmental elements, mix 1 drop of rosewood essential oil with 2 drops of a carrier oil of choice and apply every morning to help your skin build up more protection.
• Scars and stretch marks: If you want a natural method of smoothing out the appearance of stretch marks or scars, mix 5 drops of rosewood oil with 10 drops of your preferred carrier oil and gently massage into the skin.
• Chapped skin: For skin that is heavily dried out or scabbed, mix 1 drop of rosewood oil with 5 drops of a carrier oil and apply the mixture to damaged areas of skin.
• Skin health: To enjoy the overall benefits of rosewood oil on your skin, mix 2 drops of the oil with 4 drops of your preferred carrier oil every day, which can help you soak in the antibacterial and antioxidant properties it may have to offer.

Other ways you can enjoy the benefits of rosewood oil include adding it to a warm bathtub (using about 10 diluted drops) or as part of a foot bath, before soaking in the water. Alternatively, dilute and use as part of a body massage or in a shampoo to invigorate the scalp.

Are there any risks to using rosewood essential oil?

Currently, there are no known side effects to using rosewood essential oil. However, as with any essential oil, if you are a first-time user or if you have previously experienced allergic reactions with other oils, you should complete a skin patch test to assess how your body will react.

To perform a patch test, simply apply a small amount of the diluted oil to the inside of your elbow. Cover it with a plaster and leave for 24 hours – if there is no inflammation, itchiness, redness or irritation of any kind, then it should be fine to continue using the oil. If you do experience any of these symptoms, do not use the oil any further. 

Research that has been carried out so far suggests rosewood essential oil may be able to heal damaged and dry areas, provide antibacterial and antiseptic properties and help to ease feelings of stress and anxiety. You can also use the oil in the bath, in soap recipes or in a diffuser, whilst still being able to enjoy its aromatherapeutic benefits. When applying it to your skin, always ensure that the oil has been properly diluted as it is highly concentrated when in its pure form.