Lavender And Its Effects On Skin Health

Introduction

Most individuals have grown up with the aroma of lavender in their homes, and its essential oil is still just as popular now as it was centuries ago.¹ Essential oils of lavender are frequently used in massage and aromatherapy. In vitro, lavender oil exhibits antibacterial activity against various bacteria, fungi, and insects that may cause skin infections and reactions.²

Many over-the-counter complementary and cosmetic products contain lavender essential oil as a component, making it a popular complementary medicine in and of itself. Medications made from the common garden herb lavender (Lavandula spp.) have been used as a medicinal agent for centuries.

A more recent addition to this history was the extensive usage of these plants' essential oils as an antibiotic during World War II. In addition to its known antibacterial qualities, the oil is also thought to have sedative, carminative, anti-depressive, and anti-inflammatory qualities.³

The discussion aims to explore the effects of lavender on skin health. It aims to understand the potential health benefits of lavender, a plant known for its aromatic and therapeutic properties. The topic explores the possible antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties of lavender, which could prove beneficial for treating skin disorders, improving skin appearance, and promoting general skin health.

Historical and cultural significance of lavender

Lavender is well-known for its widespread use in the fragrance industry but also has a long medical history. Lavender is grown in different forms around the world. There are at least five species that are used medicinally, and it is thought that each species has unique therapeutic qualities, some of which include L. latifolia, L. hybrida, L. angustifolia and L. dentata.

The Latin word ‘lavare’, means ‘to wash’ or ‘to bath’, is where the term lavender originates. In ancient Rome and North Africa, Lavender flowers were used to scent public baths and the Roman army used these flowers as a disinfectant. In Medieval and Renaissance times, lavenders were used to store laundry. They were also used in the mummification process by the Ancient Egyptians.²

Among the Lamiaceae family of plants is the essential oil plant known as lavender. Lavandula oil is mostly used as a sedative, stress-repellent, hypnotic and nervous system stimulant. It has been used dermatologically in treating skin rashes and sunburn and has proven to promote skin health. Lavender essential oil has also been used as an antibiotic and a strong antiseptic.⁴ 

Cultural significance across different regions and ages

Lavender originates from different regions such as Southwest Asia and southeast India, the Mediterranean region, southern Europe, northern and eastern Africa, and Middle Eastern nations. There are over 30 species, dozens of subspecies and hundreds of hybrids and cultivars.⁵ 

There have been different uses and cultural significance of lavender in various regions, for example, in traditional Chinese medicine, lavender was used to treat conditions such as fever, infections, anxiety and infertility, in Victorian times, it was used as an aphrodisiac, and in Arabic medicine, it was used to treat kidney problems and stomach aches.² 

Lavender's composition and properties

Key components of lavender oil that benefit skin health

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) oil is mostly composed of linalool (35%) and linalyl acetate (51%), lavandulyl acetate, camphor, 1,8-cineole and lavandulol. it is recognised as one of the mildest plant essential oils and has a history of wound healing.⁶ Active ingredients such as linalool, lavandulol, linalyl acetate, and eucalyptol, especially a high and equal amount of linalyl acetate and linalool are needed for the good antimicrobial properties of lavender oil.⁷

Linalyl acetate and linalool make up to 90% of lavender oil's volume. They have antifungal, antibacterial, and insecticidal effects. They also have local anaesthetic and sedative effects.² These key components of lavender oil benefits skin health due to their antimicrobial, wound-healing, and local anaesthetic effects.

Antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties

Studies have shown that lavender oils have a high efficacy as antimicrobial agents.⁵ It has been found that lavender essential oil, especially L. angustifolia is active against various species of bacteria and also antibiotic-resistant bacteria.³

Lavender oil contains different antimicrobial compounds such as linalool and eucalyptol, with linalool having the strongest activity against a wide range of microorganisms.⁷ The skin is a dynamic and complex ecosystem which has natural bacteria, fungi, viruses, and archaea. These microorganisms, also known as the skin microbiota, are essential to the skin’s immunity and physiology.⁸

The adult skin microbiota is made up of Gram-positive bacilli such as Bacillus spp., Gram-negative bacilli such as E. coli, Gram-positive cocci such as S. aureus, and yeast-like fungi such as Candida spp. Lavender oil helps control and reduce the growth of these microorganisms, and it has a positive effect on the natural processes occurring on the surface and in the skin.⁷ Lavender oil is also an efficient antifungal therapy.⁵ 

Inflammation is a complicated biological process involving cellular, vascular and many soluble substances that present medical signs such as heat, loss of function, discomfort, swelling, and redness. The removal of the aggressive agent and the effects of tissue damage are the main objectives of the inflammatory process. Lavender essential oils have been recognised to have effective and safe anti-inflammatory properties and have been used in the treatment of different skin inflammatory diseases.⁹

Benefits of lavender for skin health

Lavender oil is a very strong antiseptic that is used as an additive in pharmaceutical medications such as lotions for wounds that are difficult to heal and eczema. It is also used as a salve for burns and ulcers.⁷ Lavender oil has also been recognised as a remedy to alleviate the symptoms of skin conditions, such as dermatitis and psoriasis.¹⁰

Due to its antimicrobial activity, to enhance the wound healing process and its ability to speed up the wound contraction process, lavender oil has been used as a topical therapy for wound healing and reducing scar, thereby improving skin health. A study showed that Lavender essential oil increases the levels of collagen and TGF-b which induces the growth of fibroblasts and the process of their resulting into myofibroblasts that is essential in wound contraction due to tissue shrinkage.¹¹

Lavender's natural antioxidant and antimicrobial properties refresh, neutralise and moisturise the skin, supporting the removal of microorganisms and excess oils. It also manages acne by eliminating bacteria.¹² Lavender oil also promotes hair growth, especially in individuals with alopecia.¹⁰

Lavender has anti-ageing properties that benefit the skin. Its essential oil speeds up the development and regeneration of skin cells. This strengthens the skin and supports the granulation of a wounded epidermis, thereby regenerating the skin faster and resulting in delayed skin ageing processes.⁷

Potential risks and considerations

Studies have shown that lavender oil and/or its components should be used in highly diluted forms and with care, particularly when applied directly to the skin.⁶ Linalool and linalyl acetate, two major components of lavender oil, have been discovered to be potent contact allergens when converted through oxidation into substances like hydroperoxides. Patch testing has been recommended to individuals to test for lavender allergy before use.¹³

Lavender essential oil must be diluted properly before applying on the skin because it can be cytotoxic, that is, cause damage to skin cells. Diluting the essential oil with carrier oils such as coconut, jojoba, or almond oil minimises the risk of skin cytotoxicity and irritation.¹¹

FAQs

Can lavender oil help reduce acne?

Lavender oil can help reduce acne for some people due to its antimicrobial properties. These properties can prevent the growth of bacteria that cause acne, and it is anti-inflammatory effects can reduce the swelling and redness associated with acne.

Is lavender oil good for all skin types?

Lavender oil can be good for different types of skin, especially for oily, acne-prone, or inflamed skin, because of its balancing, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. However, individuals with sensitive skin or allergies to lavender should be cautious and perform a patch test before use because essential oils can sometimes cause irritation or allergic reactions.

How does lavender oil affect skin ageing?

Lavender oil has antioxidant properties that can help protect the skin from free radical damage, which contributes to the ageing process. By reducing these effects, lavender oil can help maintain the skin's elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, leading to a more youthful appearance over time.

Can lavender oil help with skin irritation or inflammation?

Lavender oil is popular for its soothing effects on the skin. It can help reduce irritation and inflammation and enhance the healing process in conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and sunburn. Its calming properties also make it an excellent remedy for insect bites and minor burns.

How can lavender oil be safely used on the skin?

To safely use lavender oil on the skin, it should always be diluted in a carrier oil (like coconut, jojoba, or almond oil) to minimise the risk of irritation. It is also advised to conduct a patch test before using it more broadly, especially for individuals with sensitive skin.

Are there any risks associated with using lavender oil on the skin?

While lavender oil is generally considered safe for topical use when properly diluted, there are potential risks, including skin irritation, allergic reactions, or sensitisation, particularly in individuals with sensitive skin or allergies to lavender. Furthermore, excessive use of undiluted essential oils can lead to adverse reactions.

Summary

Lavender is known for its aromatic and therapeutic properties and has been used for centuries in medicine and cosmetics. Its essential oil, rich in compounds like linalool and linalyl acetate, exhibits antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties that are beneficial for skin health.

Historically, lavender served as an antiseptic and was used for wound healing, managing skin conditions, and even as an antibiotic during World War II. Recent studies show its potential in treating skin disorders such as psoriasis, and eczema, promoting wound healing, and supporting skin regeneration. However, careful dilution is advised to avoid skin irritation and potential allergic reactions.