Lavender Oil

Category: Essential Oil

Brief Description: Lavender oil is distilled from the flower spikes of certain species of lavender. It has a floral, fresh, sweet, herbaceous and sometimes slightly fruity scent. The cost of lavender oil varies widely based on the variety and quality, ranging from $7 to $15 per oz.

Benefits: Known for its calming and soothing properties. Often used in skincare products to help with various skin conditions, such as acne, wrinkles, and inflammatory conditions.

Skin Type Suitability/Concerns: Suitable for all skin types, but especially beneficial for oily and acne-prone skin.

Target Audience: Widely used by individuals looking for natural solutions to various skin problems. Its calming properties also make it popular among people seeking stress relief.

Chemical Composition: Primarily composed of linalyl acetate, linalool, lavandulyl acetate, β-caryophyllene, and β-ocimene.

Physical Aspect: A clear to pale yellow liquid.

Compatibility: Lavender oil is extremely versatile and blends well with many other essential oils including cedarwood, pine, clary sage, geranium, and nutmeg.

Concentration: Generally used at a concentration of up to 1% in cosmetic formulations.

Side Effects/Adverse Reactions: Lavender oil is generally safe for topical use, but can cause skin irritation or sensitization in some individuals.

Regulatory Status: Generally recognized as safe for use in cosmetics, subject to concentration or use limitations.

Sustainability/Ethical Considerations: Lavender is widely cultivated and not considered endangered. Some lavender species are native to specific regions and efforts are often made to preserve their natural habitats.

Variants: Varieties include Lavandula angustifolia (English lavender) and Lavandula x intermedia (Lavandin, a hybrid), which have different aromatic profiles and uses.