In which cosmetic products can one find the essential oil of immortelle?

Renowned for its herbaceous and slightly spicy fragrance, the essential oil of immortelle is obtained through hydrodistillation of the Mediterranean flowers of theHelichrysum italicum. Chemically, it is characterised by its richness in neryl acetate, a molecule known for its vasoconstrictive but also tensing effects. Studies in vitro have indeed shown that this molecule can inhibit the activities of collagenase and elastase, respectively responsible for the degradation of collagen and elastin. Today, the essential oil of immortelle is indispensable in cosmetics, providing numerous benefits to the skin and hair, explaining its popularity in formulation.

• Cleansing oil.

  Most commonly, the essential oil of immortelle is found in an oily galenic formulation, its own texture integrating well into this type of care. It is notably present in certain makeup removal oils, products used to gently eliminate lipophilic impurities and makeup residues accumulated on the skin's surface. The essential oil of immortelle can also be incorporated into aqueous cleansers, but this is less common.

• Serum targeting skin sagging.

  In cosmetics, the essential oil of Italian helichrysum is primarily used to formulate serums targeting skin ageing. As mentioned earlier, its richness in neryl acetate is a benefit in preventing the first signs of wrinkles. Moreover, the essential oil of immortelle has interesting antioxidant properties to prevent photoageing. Indeed, the levels of cellular oxidative stress are closely linked to skin ageing, with free radicals causing extensive damage to DNA as well as to the supportive protein fibres of the dermis.

• Serum targeting skin imperfections.

  The Italian helichrysum essential oil can also be found in targeted treatments for blemishes, to be applied locally or all over the face. Antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and capable of protecting the constituents of sebum from oxidation, this ingredient has several interesting properties for acne-prone skin, explaining its presence in certain anti-blemish serums.

• Eye contour.

  Dark circles, dehydration lines, bags... The eye contour is a delicate area that requires special care. The antioxidant properties of Italian helichrysum essential oil, coupled with its ability to stimulate microcirculation, allow it to be included in several products intended for this part of the face. Indeed, the draining action of the immortelle essential oil could potentially reduce bluish dark circles and watery bags, results of slowed blood circulation.

• Cream, lotion or hydrating mask.

  The essential oil of immortelle is also found in creams, lotions or hydrating masks. Although it does not possess moisturising properties itself, the addition of Italian helichrysum essential oil in this type of care is interesting and concurrently provides them with antioxidant virtues.

• Sun care.

  The essential oil of immortelle is also incorporated into some sun care products, particularly oils. Although it is not a sun filter, it has a slight photoprotective action and can protect the skin from oxidative stress caused by UV rays. However, Italian helichrysum essential oil cannot replace a sunscreen, as its sun protection factor (SPF) is only 6.91. Nevertheless, it is still interesting to incorporate it into sun care products.

• Conditioners.

  The essential oil of immortelle finally brings several benefits to the hair. It is indeed found in several conditioners where its anti-radical action helps to protect the hair fibres from discolouration. Indeed, free radicals are not only harmful to the skin but also attack the proteins and lipids present in the hair. However, by oxidising these compounds, free radicals can alter the natural colour of the hair. To prevent this phenomenon, it is good to have antioxidants in your hair care routine.

At Typology, you can find the essential oil of Italian helichrysum in two of our products:

• The firming night mask : Enriched with prickly pear oil, shea butter and immortelle essential oil, this enveloping night mask nourishes and regenerates weakened skin while firming the tissues. Formulated with 99% natural origin ingredients, this treatment is applied once or twice a week on clean, dry skin for a rested face upon waking.

• The botanical tensor assembly : Composed of 7 botanical extracts, this night serum tones the skin and optimises cellular regeneration. The ingredients making up this care can be separated into 3 categories: plant cells, vegetable oils and essential oils. With different compositions, they work in synergy and offer complementary actions on the skin.

• GIRAUD-ROBERT A. & al. Use of Italian Helichrysum essential oil and rosehip vegetable oil following reconstructive and cosmetic plastic surgery. Phytotherapy. (2007).

• NARDA M. & al. Night Cream Comprising Melatonin, Carnosine and Helichrysum italicum Extract Assists in Reducing Skin Reactivity and Indications of Photodamage: Ex Vivo and Clinical Studies. Dermatology and Therapy (2020).

• LARATTA B. & al. Determination of Antioxidant Activity and Sun Protection Factor of Commercial Essential Oils. Biology and Life Sciences Forum (2021).

• KONCIC M. & al. Hydroxypropyl-β-Cyclodextrin-Based Helichrysum italicum Extracts: Antioxidant and Cosmeceutical Activity and Biocompatibility. Antioxidants (2023).

• OBERMAYER B. & al. Skin and Vascular Fitness. SOFW Journal - Home and Personal Care Ingredients & Formulations (2023).