Rosemary essential oil for oily skin?

Theessential oil of rosemary is extracted from the aromatic plant Rosmarinus officinalis, more commonly known as rosemary. This essential oil is obtained by steam distillation of rosemary leaves. It is widely used to alleviate rheumatic pains, stimulate blood circulation and soothe digestive disorders. Rosemary essential oil treatments are recommended in spring and autumn to detoxify and stimulate the liver. This essential oil is also recognised for its skin benefits, particularly due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Thanks to its numerous active molecules, rosemary essential oil is attributed with several beneficial properties for individuals with oily skin.

The α-pinene and borneol, found in rosemary essential oil, exert their anti-inflammatory activity. The α-pinene works by inhibiting the nuclear translocation of NF-kappa B and reducing inflammatory markers, while borneol suppresses the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines. A study has also shown that these components of rosemary essential oil have inhibited inflammation induced by Propionibacterium acnes, a bacteria that develops in acne-prone skin, through the inhibition or suppression of cytokine production.

Some sources suggest that rosemary essential oil may have sebum-regulating and astringent properties, which could help to tighten the skin's pores reducing the likelihood of hair follicles being blocked by sebum, leading to the formation of comedones (blackheads) and spots. However, it is important to note that to date, no scientific study has demonstrated that the application of rosemary essential oil has visible beneficial effects on oily skin.

If you have oily skin, we recommend you to consider the following active ingredients, whose benefits have been scientifically proven.

• The vegetable oil of jojoba.

  Thejojoba vegetable oil is composed of esters, saturated fatty acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, monounsaturated fatty acids, and sterols. Its composition is similar to that of sebum, which is naturally produced by the body, giving it a particular affinity with the skin. Thus, when applied, it blends with the sebum to form a light film that strengthens the skin's hydrolipidic film, thereby preventing dehydration.

  Jojoba oil has a rebalancing and sebum-regulating action, which allows it to give the complexion a matte and non-shiny appearance while reducing the occurrence of imperfections such as enlarged pores, spots and blackheads. Moreover, it is non-comedogenic and non-greasy, meaning it does not clog pores and is quickly absorbed by the skin without leaving a greasy sensation. By penetrating quickly, it deeply nourishes, thus helping to keep the skin hydrated and supple.

• Salicylic acid.

  Thanks to its peeling effect, thesalicylic acid purifies the upper layer of the epidermis, promoting the removal of dead cells. It also has anti-bacterial and astringent properties that help regulate sebum overproduction, improve the appearance of enlarged pores, and reduce inflammation.