Lavender is well-known for its gentle, calming fragrance and is commonly used as a sleep aid, but it just so happens to be a powerful skincare ingredient, as well! We’re taking a closer look at this lovely botanical to showcase its many natural wonders.
All About the Lavender Flower
Lavender, or lavandula angustifolia, is a member of the mint family and is widely admired for its uniquely beautiful fragrance. Many compare its scent to a combination of mint and rosemary with a hint of floral notes that add to its appeal. Frequently used in aromatherapy, this purple flower has a fascinating history of being incorporated into various beauty treatments. In fact, lavender’s been used in skincare for the last 2,500 years. Ancient Romans bathed in lavender to help cleanse their skin, ancient Egyptians used lavender for mummification and Queen Elizabeth used lavender oil as her signature perfume (she even added it to her cups of tea, but we don’t recommend consuming it).
What is the Difference Between Lavender Essential Oil & Lavender Extract?
The key difference between lavender essential oil and lavender extract lies in their different extraction processes. Lavender essential oil is specifically derived from the dried flowers of the lavender plant using the process of steam distillation, while lavender extract is sourced from various parts of the lavender plant. The extraction of lavender essential oil is a bit more complicated in general since it requires distillation as well as a specialized environment and machinery.
Both are used for aromatherapy, but essential oils are more commonly associated with skincare benefits. At Desert Essence, we incorporate both lavender essential oil and lavender extract in a variety of our skincare and beauty items.
4 Incredible Ways Lavender Benefits Your Skin
1. Lavender with tea tree oil helps keep blemishes at bay.
Lavender’s properties naturally help it cleanse the skin’s surface. Mix our Organic Lavender Tea Tree Oil with a carrier oil (like jojoba) to help cleanse the skin while soothing blemishes and problem skin areas.
Pro Tip: You can also place a few drops in your favorite detergent to naturally freshen your laundry.
2. Lavender helps keep skin balanced.
Our nurturing Lavender Soap Bar gently cleanses the body while calming the senses with deep, herbaceous notes of pure Bulgarian lavender. We also incorporate Australian Eco-Harvest™ tea tree oil to help remove excess oil and buildup, while jojoba oil hydrates the skin.
3. Lavender helps keep bugs away outdoors.
While most humans love the scent of lavender, bugs don’t so dab some on our skin before you head outside. Our Blemish Touch Stick is a skin-clearing solution formulated with pure Australian tea tree oil, chamomile and lavender. Apply it as needed to blemishes, insect bites and other minor skin irritations for an instant sense of relief.
4. Lavender is packed with antioxidants.
Lavender oil is packed with antioxidants which are naturally occurring vitamins that help skin rebuild and protect itself.
Special Considerations
While lavender is known for a myriad of skincare benefits, it’s also a relatively common allergen. Additionally, lavender essential oil is highly concentrated and must be diluted with a carrier oil to prevent skin irritation. We suggest testing a patch of skin to ensure no rashes, itchiness, redness or irritation occurs before using any lavender-infused products. Lavender is not recommended for those with lavender allergies or skin sensitivities. It’s also not advised for expectant and breastfeeding mothers, since not enough information is readily available regarding the safety of lavender use during pregnancy.
Shop Organic Skincare Products with Lavender
At Desert Essence, we carry a wide range of lavender beauty products to help you reap all its natural benefits. From lavender probiotic hand sanitizers and deodorant to Bulgarian lavender body wash and lotion, you’ll find plenty of options to add to your collection.