Derived from the flowers of the marigold, an annual herbaceous plant that flourishes particularly in the Mediterranean basin, the oil macerate of calendula is a highly valued natural ingredient in cosmetics. To reap all its benefits, it is important to use it correctly. Let's explore together the different ways of using calendula macerate.
How to use calendula macerate?
Published on February 4, 2025, by Pauline, Chemical Engineer — 7 min of reading
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The calendula macerate for skin care.
Known for its ornamental plant characteristics, the flowers of Calendula officinalis L. can also yield an extract rich in bioactive compounds beneficial for the skin. Thus, whether used alone or incorporated into skincare products, the calendula macerate is widely used today for topical application. It is particularly valued for soothing the skin in cases of sunburn, insect bites, or even nappy rash. Several studies have indeed shown that calendula extract can inhibit certain pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukins-1β and 6, as well as cyclooxygenase-2, an enzyme that catalyses the conversion of arachidonic acid into prostaglandin H2.
The calendula could also accelerate wound healing by activating the PI3K metabolic pathways in fibroblasts and the NF-kB pathway in keratinocytes. This stimulates their proliferation and migration, increases the production of granulation tissue, and accelerates the regeneration of damaged skin tissue. Furthermore, the antimicrobial effects of calendula extract help to limit the risk of bacterial contamination, reinforcing its relevance in the overall healing process.
How to use calendula macerate in topical application?
The oil macerate of calendula can be used in various ways, depending on the skin's needs. In direct application, a few drops can be placed on clean skin and then massaged until absorbed. This use of calendula is particularly suited to irritated areas, slightly burned, following a sunburn for example. It is also possible to enrich a healing cream or balm by adding a few drops of macerate, to enhance its restorative action. To speed up the healing of superficial wounds or relieve erythema, you can also apply the calendula macerate in the form of soaked compresses, to be left on the skin for about fifteen minutes.
The calendula macerate can help soothe the scalp.
Although the calendula oil macerate is not particularly recognised in the hair care field, its application to the scalp could be interesting, especially in cases of irritation, redness or itching. Indeed, as mentioned above, this botanical extract has anti-inflammatory properties, allowing it to soothe the discomforts of the scalp, for example related to an allergy or skin dryness.
How to use calendula oil macerate on the scalp?
To soothe a sensitive scalp using a calendula oil macerate, it is generally recommended to apply a few drops of oil over the entire scalp or on areas prone to irritation before massaging until absorbed. However, depending on the carrier oil used during the extraction of the calendula and the nature of your hair, this method may leave a slight oily residue. To avoid this, you can leave the macerate on for thirty minutes to an hour before washing your hair.
Another option for a lighter finish: dilute the calendula oil macerate in a hydrolat, such as Roman chamomile hydrolat or orange blossom hydrolat. As a reminder, a hydrolat is the aqueous part obtained during the distillation of certain flowers, unlike an essential oil, which constitutes the oily part. The calendula macerate - hydrolat mixture can then be applied with the fingertips to the scalp or directly sprayed.
Note : Although less common, some people also use calendula oil macerate in a hair oil bath on the lengths. This method is particularly beneficial for taking advantage of the nourishing benefits of the carrier oil, which is often rich in fatty acids, especially oleic and linoleic acids. These lipids can help to strengthen the hair's hydrolipidic barrier, maintain their elasticity and reduce dryness at the ends.
Sources
KEMPER K. Calendula (Calendula officinalis). The Longwood Herbal Task Force (1999).
SNYDER P. W. & al. Final report of the cosmetic ingredient review expert panel amended safety assessment of Calendula officinalis-derived cosmetic ingredients. International Journal of Toxicology (2010).
TRIPATHI D. K. & al. Organoleptic properties in-vitro and in-vivo pharmacological activities of Calendula officinalis Linn: An over review. Journal of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Research (2011).
CORADINI C. Z. & al. Evaluation of biologically active compounds from Calendula officinalis flowers using spectrophotometry. Chemistry Central Journal (2012).
