What is "Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil" and what is its utility?

The officinal lavender, also known under the vernacular names of true lavender or French lavender, is a bushy shrub belonging to the family of Lamiaceae.

The genus Lavendula comprises 32 classified species, three of which are naturally found in France: the true lavender (Lavandula agustifolia) which grows in high mountains, the spike lavender (Lavandula latifolia) which is found in the hills or low mountains, and the French lavender (Lavendula stoechas) which thrives in the plains.

To extract theessential oil of true lavender, the flowers must first be dried to remove some of the water they contain. The extraction is done by the steam distillation of the flowering tops. Under the effect of heat, lavender flowers produce two liquids: the hydrosol and the essential oil. The oil is found above the floral water. This essential oil primarily contains a terpenic ester, called linalyl acetate, as well as monoterpenols (terpinen-1-ol-4 and linalool).

The use offine lavender extract on the skin and hair provides numerous benefits:

1. Theessential oil of true lavender applied topically.

This essential oil helps to reduce imperfections; it is therefore recommended for oily skin, as well as for acne-prone skin. Indeed, it has a purifying and astringent action. It regulates sebum production and mattifies oily skin that tends to shine. Moreover, its anti-bacterial activity helps to limit the proliferation of microorganisms involved in acne such as Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis. In addition, it is recognised for its restorative virtues and for its soothing action on fragile skin. As a result, it is present in the following two serums:

• The firming body serum with retinol and borage oil tightens and smooths the skin of the neck and décolletage. However, it can also be used locally on other parts of the body.

• The Dryness and Blemish Serum contains squalane combined with ceramides to repair the skin barrier for better protected, more hydrated skin and reduced blemishes.

1. The application of true lavender essential oil in hair care.

Just as when it is applied to the skin, this essential oil soothes irritations and itching of the scalp. It is therefore found in certain scalp scrubs, as well as masks and balms.