The Therapeutic Value of Essential Oils in Cosmetics

The Growing Emphasis On The Therapeutic Value Of Essential Oils In Cosmetics

Cosmetics have been valued in many different capacities over the span of human history. In today’s world, cosmetics have taken on a life of their own that exceeds anything from the past. The same can be said for essential oils, which were used as natural remedies for thousands of years before becoming commercialised in the 20th and 21st centuries. A new trend is growing that combines cosmetics and therapeutic essential oils, in order to appeal to the countless consumers seeking natural products that can also improve their health.

Cosmetic Benefits

According to a report titled Trends and Segments for Essential Oils for Cosmetics written by the Centre for the Promotion of Imports in the Netherlands, “The cosmetics market of today is oriented towards health, wellness, and anti-ageing.” This captures the general mood of consumers, most of whom are frequently shaping their purchasing choices around the healing qualities that cosmetics have to offer, rather than strictly around their aesthetic benefits. It’s no longer enough that a moisturiser smells nice; it must also have a greater purpose like boosting collagen production, minimising sun damage, or rejuvenating the appearance of the skin.

With their countless therapeutic properties, essential oils are being utilised more than ever before in the cosmetics industry to meet these consumer demands for safe, effective, and natural products. In fact, the global essential oil market size exceeded $6.0 billion in 2015, and it is expected to grow significantly by 2024. Essential oils offer incredible aromas as well as anti-oxidative, antibacterial, and anti-fungal properties. The potential for essential oils to stimulate and support healing in the skin makes them incredibly valuable tools within the cosmetics industry.

As The Centre for the Promotion of Imports’ report points out, consumers are willing and prepared to pay more for high-quality products that offer a variety of healing benefits. Bath salts, hand creams, moisturisers, lipsticks, and many other skin care products made with essential oils are rising in popularity, especially compared to the same products made with cheaper and synthetic ingredients with known side effects.

Essential oils like Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea), German Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla), Lemongrass (Cymbopogon flexuosus), Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens), and Frankincense (Boswellia carterii) are all known for their impressive and significant health benefits. Lavender is possibly the most beloved thanks to its soothing properties that heal skin irritation, making it an excellent choice for ointments, lotions, and salves. Frankincense, meanwhile, supports healthy cellular function, reduces skin imperfections, and alleviates inflammation, which makes it a valuable addition to any makeup, lotion, toner, or face wash.

At the end of the day, cosmetic companies can’t go wrong when they utilise natural, pure essential oils in their products. No matter what your own business is looking for, Aromatic Ingredients can offer you these essential oils as stand alone items or work with your formulation team in the development of finished products. Contact us today to learn more and put yourself in a position to capitalise on the hottest cosmetic trends.