Natural cosmetics: the role of essential oils!
Clean Beauty is increasingly present in the way we consume every day. We are looking for a more natural, greener, chemical-free beauty. In response to this desire, many cosmetics brands are once again giving way to essential oils and their virtues. Thanks to their powerful, concentrated active ingredients, essential oils effectively target a wide range of problems: irritation, wrinkles, hydration, etc. Let's discover their benefits together.
ESSENTIAL OIL?
Anessential oil is a substance with a high concentration of active ingredients, extracted from an aromatic plant and obtained by steam distillation of flowers or fruit, or by cold pressing of zest. The essential oil is the distilled essence of the aromatic plant.
As essential oils contain 100% of their active ingredients, they should be used with care. It's important to know how to dose them precisely and rigorously, to the drop. Incorrect use can cause side-effects or skin irritation.
ESSENTIAL OIL/VEGETABLE OIL: A WINNING DUO FOR COSMETICS
Some pure essential oils, such as geranium, tea tree or immortelle, are far too powerful to be used directly, without risk, in cosmetics. This is why they are usually mixed with creams, gels or fats, such as vegetable oils.
Vegetable oils are extracted from the seeds and fruits of oleaginous plants (which contain oil). In addition to enabling optimal dilution, they improve the cutaneous tolerance of essential oils on mucous membranes and sensitive skin, and reduce the risk of irritation. Last but not least, vegetable oils enable essential oils to penetrate the skin to a greater or lesser degree, notably on the epidermis, dermis or hypodermis. The choice of vegetable oil when diluting an essential oil is therefore essential.
Essential oils are often used in cosmetics, as they contain numerous active ingredients to target specific problems. For "greener" cosmetics, they can replace chemical molecules that are harmful to the skin or the environment, while still being highly effective. A few drops are all it takes to add numerous properties to a product.
The benefits of essential oils are many and varied: calming, relaxing, anti-infectious, healing, anti-wrinkle and moisturizing.
ESSENTIAL OILS, A MULTITUDE OF VIRTUES
Among the best known, here are the essential oils most commonly used in cosmetics and their various virtues:- True Lavender (also known as lavender officinalis) is known for its anti-stress, sedative, anti-depression, calming, sleep-inducing, healing and skin-regenerating properties. Lavender essential oil is often used for its Provencal scent, which adds real value to products.
- Cypress promotes healthy blood circulation and reduces venous congestion such as heavy legs and varicose veins.
- Rose Geraniumor Geranium Bourbon very close, is often used for the skin (wrinkles, eczema, stretch marks) and is known for its soothing, healing and antiseptic properties.
- Damask Rose delays the appearance of wrinkles.
- The Sea Samphire helps reduce the appearance of cellulite, tones the silhouette and is also used in anti-aging treatments.
- Palmarosa essential oil has regenerating and toning properties.
- Verbena essential oil is a powerful antioxidant, protecting the skin from UV rays and skin aging. It stimulates and tones the skin.
- Chamomile andYlang-Ylang essential oils are perfect for soothing sensitive skin.
Many brands use mainly natural ingredients in their formulas, including essential oils. In this way, they combine powerful, concentrated active ingredients in a single care product. The same product can have both regenerating and moisturizing virtues, and in a much more natural way than using dangerous chemical molecules.
Choose cosmetics made with original ingredients. Discover our Essential Oil care collection based on five iconic and essential fragrances from Provence, composed of between 95% and 97% naturally-sourced ingredients.
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