Lavender Oil Skin Benefits

Lavender oil comes from a few different plants, but the type most valued is distilled from Lavandula angustifolia. Essential lavender oil possesses properties that make it beneficial for helping many different conditions and ailments, including several related to your skin. Jeanne Rose, author of "375 Essential Oils and Hydrosols," notes that essential lavender oil is generally non-irritating and non-sensitizing so it can work on people of many different skin types. It is always a good idea to consult a certified aromatherapist or doctor prior to using essential oils to make sure the oils and methods are appropriate for you.

Acne

Acne is one area where aromatherapists believe lavender can benefit your skin. Aromatherapist Patricia Davis explains in her book, "Aromatherapy: An A-Z," that essential lavender oil is antiseptic---it kills bacteria---and also an anti-inflammatory. These two properties allow lavender oil to both attack the bacteria causing the acne infections and also reduce the swelling and general skin inflammation. To help get rid of acne, you can use lavender blended into lotions and creams. Davis suggests a 1-to-2 percent concentration.

Burns

Lavender oil's ability to help heal burns is responsible for the birth of modern aromatherapy. In 1928 a French chemist, René-Maurice Gattefossé, burned his hand in a laboratory experiment. He accidentally applied lavender oil to it and noticed the burn healed much faster than he expected. Davis explains that lavender stimulates new skin cell formation. This reduces scarring and helps burns heal quicker. It also works as a pain reliever, and the antiseptic action helps reduce the chance of infection.

Fungal Infections

Athlete's foot and ringworm are skin infections caused by fungi. Davis and Rose both note that lavender essential oil also acts as an antifungal agent. A 2005 study published in the scientific journal Medical Mycology found that lavender oil did have the ability to kill some types of fungi. Davis recommends initially treating with the lavender oil mixed into an alcohol solution to help dry out the skin. You can then switch to a cream or lotion with 3-to-5 percent lavender oil.