What are the properties of lemon verbena hydrosol for the skin?

The hydrosol of lemon verbena possesses proven antibacterial properties. Indeed, it contains several active ingredients capable of combating the growth of certain bacteria. It is particularly rich in eucalyptol and alpha-terpineol, compounds that work in synergy against Staphylococcus aureus, a pathogen responsible for food poisoning and localised infections. From a biological perspective, eucalyptol and alpha-terpineol inhibit the transcription factor NF-κB, which regulates the expression of most of the body's pro-inflammatory proteins.

Lemon verbena hydrosol also contains linalool, a compound that inhibits the ability of bacteria to communicate with each other via molecular mediators (quorum sensing). It particularly acts against Cutibacterium acnes, the bacteria responsible foracne. Thus, lemon hydrosol can be used as an antiseptic in case of injury or to prevent bacterial contamination.

This botanical extract is favoured by skin lacking radiance or heavily exposed to pollution due to its antioxidant properties. Lemon verbena floral water also protects the skin from photoaging and limits the appearance of pigmentation spots. These various virtues come from its high citral content (≈ 50%), which makes up nearly half of the composition of the lemon verbena hydrosol.

A recent study conducted on mice has highlighted the antioxidant properties of citral. The researchers applied a cream containing 1% citral to shaved mice that had previously been exposed to UVB rays for 5 minutes. This experiment was repeated daily for 24 weeks and, at the end, it was observed that the mice on which the cream had been applied had significantly fewer tumours.

From a mechanistic perspective, citral has activated the transcription factor Nrf2 by dissociating it from its inhibitor KEAP1. This has allowed for an increase in the production of glutathione, a tripeptide involved in the conversion of the oxidised form of ascorbic acid into vitamin C. Glutathione is also capable of neutralising free radicals through an electron donation, which prevents them from damaging the tissues and cells of the body.

The hydrosol of lemon verbena also has an anti-inflammatory action. The linalool in its composition allows it to promote the synthesis of HSP70 proteins (Heat Shock Protein). These are responsible for the correct conformation of proteins found in the body's cells and help them to protect themselves from external stresses (heat, heavy metals...), potentially causing inflammatory phenomena.

Furthermore, lemon verbena floral water contains geranial. A study has shown that this molecule inhibits the activity of NLRP3, a inflammasome complex that triggers an inflammatory signalling pathway. It notably increases the synthesis of interleukin-1 (IL-1) and interleukin-4 (IL-4), which are pro-inflammatory cytokines. Therefore, the application of lemon verbena hydrosol is beneficial for easing pain that sometimes accompanies healing.

Lemon verbena hydrosol is attributed with tightening effects that can reduce wrinkles and other signs of skin sagging. Although no study has highlighted this property when applying lemon verbena floral water topically, it is true that it has been demonstrated that the oral intake of a dietary supplement based on lemon verbena, Japanese sophora, olive and rosemary by a hundred women for twelve weeks proved to be beneficial for the skin.

Scientists have notably observed an increase in the overall elasticity and hydration of the epidermis, a reduction in transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and a decrease in the depth of facial wrinkles. It is important to note once again that this study pertains to oral intake and not topical application, which does not allow us to make a definitive statement about the tightening effect of lemon verbena hydrosol.

Some sources suggest that lemon verbena hydrosol may have effects on purple stretch marks. These form following the rupture of collagen fibres in the dermis, when the skin undergoes significant tension, often induced by rapid weight gain or loss.

Nevertheless, no study to date has been able to prove that lemon verbena hydrosol has an effect on stretch marks. Furthermore, no mechanism by which the botanical extract would act has been proposed. Therefore, we cannot comment on the effects of lemon verbena floral water on stretch marks.

Affecting all skin types, the lack of radiance is often exacerbated by a lack of sleep, pollution or a deficient diet. However, this dull effect can be mitigated by providing antioxidants in skincare products.

Our radiance mask withlemon verbena hydrosol (INCI: Lippia Citriodora Leaf Water), turmeric (INCI: Curcuma Longa Root Extract) and yellow clay (INCI: Kaolin) is an essential ally to restore the radiance of your complexion. The synergy of these ingredients revitalises the epidermis and protects it from the effects of oxidative stress, by neutralising free radicals.

Furthermore, this mask imparts a healthy glow and leaves the complexion even and radiant. It also has a purifying activity and leaves the skin softer and the skin texture more refined.

• KIM D. & al. Artemisia princeps Pamp. Essential oil and its constituents eucalyptol and α-terpineol ameliorate bacterial vaginosis and vulvovaginal candidiasis in mice by inhibiting bacterial growth and NF-κB activation. Planta Medica (2011).

• CANAC P. & al. Traité d'Aromathérapie scientifique et médicale, les hydrolats (1ère édition). Paris : Édition Sang de la Terre (2018).

• LUIZ R. & al. Citral prevents UVB-induced skin carcinogenesis in hairless mice. Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology (2019).