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Lavender not only provides a soothing fragrance to skin cleansers, but it may also help combat acne. Explore more images of unique skincare ingredients.
©iStockphoto.com/KasiamThe use of lavender in beauty and health practices has ancient roots. Its very name implies its historical connection to cleansing. 'Lavender' comes from the Latin word 'lavare,' meaning 'to wash' [source: University of Maryland Medical Center]. Lavender oil, extracted from the small purple flowers of this Mediterranean mint plant, is now a staple in many skincare products [source: Britannica].
It's no wonder that lavender appears in many skin cleansers. As a fragrant aromatherapy oil, it may have a positive influence on mental well-being. Some studies suggest a link between the lavender scent and reduced stress. A recent study showed that inhaling linalool, a compound in lavender, lowered stress-induced chemical changes in rats [source: Warner]. Researchers believe these findings could extend to humans. Since stress is a known factor in acne, lavender’s calming properties may be a useful addition to skincare products.
In addition to stress relief, lavender may offer more direct benefits for the skin. Some individuals mix it with other essential oils to create a natural remedy for soothing inflammation [source: Scirrotto]. Others apply lavender to treat conditions like minor wounds, acne, and eczema, though scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness in all these areas remains limited [sources: University of Maryland Medical Center, WebMD].
