Rosemary oil has been used in cosmetology since ancient times. People have known about the unique properties of rosemary for many millennia. The ancient Egyptians considered it a sacred plant, and in some eastern countries a sprig of rosemary is still given as a wedding gift to protect the future family from possible adversity. This respect for the plant is not accidental - in terms of antibacterial and regenerating properties, as well as the amazing ability to restore energy, rosemary really has few competitors.
general description
An evergreen shrub, reaching a height of 2 m, grows mainly in Mediterranean countries, and is also found in Russia, China, Japan, and the USA. The ether is obtained from the fresh flowering tops of the plant, in some cases are used . The raw material is distilled immediately using the steam distillation method; rosemary is easily fermented, losing its beneficial properties.
The pale yellow or colorless oily liquid has a strong, fresh herbaceous menthol aroma with woody notes. The main oil producers are France, Tunisia, Italy.
It can be obtained at home only if you use fresh shoots of the plant, as well as if you have a steam distillation apparatus. There are several options for esters , differing in chemical composition : e:
- borneol-camphor oil is recommended for oily, problematic dermis;
- cineole - effective for the treatment of rosacea;
- verbenone oil is used for aging, aging skin.
In cosmetology, ether is used to treat acne, rosacea, and restore skin elasticity. Creams, peelings, tonics are produced, and manufacturers also include oil in products for the care of curls, enriching shampoos and balms.
Chemical composition
It must be said that all parts of incense herb have a rich composition. A lot of useful components are contained in the seeds, leaves, and shoots of the plant. Essential oil obtained from rosemary leaves is mainly used in the production of cosmetic products. But there are many known ways to use other parts of the evergreen shrub. The plant is especially popular in home cosmetology. Moreover, many recipes that modern women readily use to maintain the health and beauty of their facial skin were created in ancient times.
Let's look at the chemical composition of rosemary. By the way, scientists are still studying this plant, discovering more and more of its possibilities. Frankincense herb arouses such interest among the scientific community precisely because of the unique formula of its composition.
The plant contains in large quantities:
- organic acids;
- tanning components;
- alkaloids;
- bitterness;
- a whole set of essential mineral elements;
- a vitamin complex in which almost the entire group is represented;
- resins;
- vegetable proteins and carbohydrates;
- ethers.
Only the main groups of components that are part of the Mediterranean plant are listed here. In turn, each individual group contains up to ten, and sometimes more, ingredients. All these substances in a single combination have a positive effect not only on the skin, but also on the entire body as a whole. Therefore, incense herb is very highly valued in the pharmaceutical industry, medicine, and cosmetology.
In the countries of the Mediterranean region, the plant is grown on an industrial scale. In our harsh climate, rosemary does not take root well; its wild species are found only in the foothills of the Caucasus. But enthusiastic gardeners successfully grow overseas spices at home on the windowsill. Among ornamental shrub species, perennial plants are predominantly cultivated. Therefore, everyone can have this natural source of longevity, beauty and health in their apartment.
A little history
Rosemary is translated from Latin as “sea dew”; on the sea coast today you can find shrubs with thin needle-like leaves. The ancient Greeks considered the plant a symbol of the goddess Aphrodite, endowing it with the ability to give happiness, love and youth. Fragrant twigs were used not only in cooking and medicine; in Ancient Greece and Ancient Egypt, temples were fumigated with shoots of the bush.
By the way. In the Middle Ages it was used against plague, infectious diseases, toothache and headaches.
Essential oil was first obtained in the 14th century, and in the 17th century, “Queen of Hungary’s water” was created, a universal remedy that was also used for cosmetic purposes. In France, rosemary water was popular among court ladies; Napoleon appreciated its tonic effect.
Beneficial features
Essential oil contains a number of valuable elements that provide a complex effect on the skin:
- pinene has antiseptic properties, eliminates oily shine, restores an even matte color, and ensures the transport of nutrients into the deep layers of the dermis;
- camphene improves the general condition of the skin, increases immune parameters, protects against aggressive environmental factors;
- cymol stops the spread of bactericidal microflora, narrows pores, and gives smoothness to bumpy relief;
- cineole soothes irritated, inflamed dermis, helps smooth out superficial wrinkles, gives density and elasticity to the skin;
- limonene whitens pigmentation, restores even color, helps tighten pores, cleanses the skin of toxins and oxidants;
- camphor soothes itching, irritation, accelerates blood flow, helps normalize oxygen respiration and renewal processes;
- terpineol is known for its antiseptic properties, normalizes sebium synthesis, improves renewal processes, stimulates tissue regeneration;
- Caryophyllene gives a fresh, blooming appearance, tones the skin, strengthens thin capillaries, and prevents the formation of vascular networks.
FAQ
Is rosemary essential oil phototoxic?
There is a clear answer in the literature that this odorous fat does not cause skin burns when used during periods of high solar activity. Despite this, it is still better to refrain from using the product externally before going outside.
Does rosemary essential oil increase or decrease blood pressure?
The drug is recommended for vegetative-vascular dystonia of the hypotonic type, as it improves the general condition and normalizes blood pressure towards an increase. For this reason, we can say that it slightly increases blood pressure due to its calming effect on the nervous system and stimulation of blood circulation. If you have hypertension, you should use it with special caution, as it may make you feel worse.
Indications for use
The healing properties of ether provide restoration of the integument, solving a whole range of aesthetic problems:
- tones, refreshes;
- improves complexion;
- whitens pigmentation;
- reduces sebium secretion;
- treats acne;
- prevents the formation of rosacea stars;
- tightens pores;
- restores hydrobalance.
Where is the best place to buy
You can purchase it at a pharmacy, natural cosmetics store, or place an order online. Sold in dark glass bottles with a dropper dispenser , price 10 ml from 120 to 800 rubles .
The oil is stored at room temperature away from sunlight, shelf life is 2 years. You can distinguish a high-quality broadcast by the following criteria:
- the manufacturer indicates on the label “100% natural product”, as well as the Latin name - Rosmarinus officinalis;
- it is impossible to determine authenticity by cost, but one brand cannot produce different esters at the same price; rosemary is more expensive than, for example, citrus esters;
- the smell of the oil may not coincide with the aroma of the plant that became the raw material for production, and manufacturers of synthetic products try to get as close as possible to the bouquet of rosemary, so only professionals can focus on the aroma as a quality criterion;
- It is difficult to check spoiled oil by external signs; you should take into account the information on expiration dates specified by the manufacturer.
How to choose correctly
The lengthy production process and a number of features of the manufacturing technology fully explain the relatively low cost of the product under the specified trade name on the market. This indicator does not indicate quality and is not even an indicator of it, unless of course the price is too low, but there are also no ways to verify the authenticity of the contents of the package at home.
For this reason, buyers should carefully study the information provided on the label. If, of course, you have extra time and money, you can submit the sample to a laboratory, where they will analyze it and issue a conclusion on the results of the chemical composition study.
It is also impossible to determine the quality of rosemary essential oil, despite the fact that it has a light, fluid consistency, using a test on a paper canvas. To draw any conclusions, you need to have an idea of exactly how the original behaves.
What to pay attention to:
- container volume – no more than 10 ml;
- information about the country of manufacture, importer, method of receipt;
- production method – steam distillation;
- chemotype indicated;
- the name of the plant is given in Russian and in Latin;
- there is information about the part of the plant from which the oil is isolated;
- not too low price;
- shelf life is adequate, not “at the limit”;
- in “Composition” – “100% natural rosemary or rosemary essential oil.”
The presence of all the information listed does not serve as a guarantee of quality, but it increases the chances of purchasing the necessary product in its original and not diluted form. After opening, the container should be hermetically sealed and stored in a cool, dry place inaccessible to direct light.
IMPORTANT. The manufacturer guarantees the safety of the composition only for the period indicated on the packaging, taking into account compliance with the required storage parameters. After this date, partial destruction of the substances occurs, which may be completely invisible in appearance, but cause severe skin irritation.
General recommendations
To effectively use oil for cosmetic purposes it is worth following a number of rules to quickly restore the condition of the skin:
- before the first procedure, you need to test for a possible allergic reaction, dilute with base oil, apply to the wrist, assess the condition of the skin after half an hour;
- cannot be used in its pure form, the recommended dosage is 3-5 drops of oil per 10 g. basics, you can add them to ready-made products or create new recipes;
- you need to add it to a one-time volume of cream or emulsion , if mixed with the entire contents of the jar, the shelf life of cosmetics is sharply reduced;
- when combining ingredients, plastic, glass, and ceramic dishes are used; ether, when interacting with metal, enters into an oxidation reaction;
- It is recommended to carry out skincare procedures in the evening, as the skin is more susceptible to active ingredients;
- combines with base oils, as well as esters of basil, geranium, spruce, oregano, fir, pine, thyme, citrus, cosmetic clays, herbal preparations;
- can be used throughout the year, does not have photosensitivity properties;
- After using it for a month you need to take a break, then you can resume the procedure , this will avoid the addictive effect.
Note! The oil is used to care for oily, problematic, aging, aging skin, and is effective in anti-aging programs.
Indications and contraindications
The main indications for the use of rosemary oil substance for facial skin are:
- Skin diseases: dermatitis, eczema, etc.
- Furunculosis.
- Burns.
- Pimples.
- Black dots.
- Cuperosis.
- Dark spots.
- Wrinkles and other skin irregularities.
Rosemary squeeze contains a large number of active components that have a strong effect on the dermis. In this regard, the product has the following contraindications:
- Carrying a child and breastfeeding. During these periods, a woman should be extremely careful about any external influences, including the use of essential oils.
- Epilepsy and predisposition to seizures. The fact is that the aromatic substance can provoke stimulation of the nervous system, which will worsen the patient’s condition.
- Hypertension. Even the smell of the product can cause sudden changes in pressure. If you apply the product to the skin, the risk of increasing the latter increases.
- Allergic reaction to the product. Do not forget to test the product in a timely manner.
- Age up to 12 years.
- Excessively sensitive dermis. In this case, there is a high probability that the odorous substance will cause irritation.
Methods of application
The oil makes the skin firm, elastic, and has a positive effect on blood flow. It is used to solve a number of aesthetic problems, improves the general condition of the integument, and improves immunity. To achieve the desired transformation effect, it is worth properly preparing your face for the effects of active elements.
cleansing :
- Remove makeup with micellar water or cosmetic cream. Then wash with running water to remove any remaining soap particles.
- Steam the skin, you can use a compress or a warming mask. As a result, it is possible to soften keratinized cells, thereby increasing the transport of nutrients.
- Then you can proceed directly to cosmetic care.
Mask for oily skin
Eliminates greasy shine, tightens pores, blocks the spread of bactericidal microflora. The result of regular use will be healthy skin with an even structure. Effectively eliminates acne, pigmentation, scars.
Components:
- 5 drops of rosemary ether;
- 10 gr. kelp;
- 5 gr. black clay;
- 5 ml apricot kernel oil.
Grind dry kelp into powder in a coffee grinder and add warm water. After 10 minutes, introduce clay, nutritional and aroma oil into the swollen algae. After stirring thoroughly, apply the cosmetic mixture along the massage lines, avoiding the eyelid area. Leave to act for 15 minutes, then rinse with nettle decoction.
Advice. Repeat the procedure up to 3 times a week until the condition is restored. For preventive purposes, 2 times a month is sufficient.
Anti-pigmentation mask
A natural product created at home has pronounced whitening effect . Removes toxins, oxidants, eliminates age spots, normalizes oxygen respiration of the integument. Recommended for use in spring and autumn to prepare and restore skin after exposure to ultraviolet radiation.
Components:
- 3 drops of rosemary ether;
- 10 ml tomato juice;
- 5 gr. white clay;
- ascorutin tablet.
Squeeze the juice from a fresh tomato, mix it with clay and crushed ascorutin, add essential oil. Apply a generous layer of product onto cleansed skin and leave for 20 minutes. After washing, apply moisturizer.
Mask for aging skin
Rosemary ether has a tightening effect, improves lymph flow, and ensures restoration of the oval contour. Prevents the formation of wrinkles, refreshes color, gives smoothness to the structure. An effective remedy for rapid transformation, normalization of metabolic processes, and saturation of cells with valuable elements.
Components:
- 5 drops rosemary oil;
- 10 gr. coconut oils;
- 5 gr. starch;
- 5 ml grape juice.
Combine unrefined coconut oil with starch and mix thoroughly until smooth. Then add ether and grape juice, spread the finished product with a cosmetic spatula from the chin to the forehead. Cover with a damp towel on top and rest for about half an hour. Carefully remove any residue and wipe with a damp swab.
Attention! For a pronounced effect, conduct 10–12 sessions.
Tonic for rosacea
Has a refreshing effect, strengthens thin capillaries, improves blood flow, a natural remedy with rosemary oil. Tightens pores and normalizes sebium synthesis, soothes inflamed dermis. Recommended for all skin types for the prevention and treatment of rosacea.
Components:
- 7 drops of rosemary ether;
- 50 ml linden decoction;
- 5 ml tocofrel.
Prepare a concentrated linden decoction, strain, add ether and oil pharmaceutical solution. Pour into a dark glass jar, use morning and evening, moistening a cotton pad and wiping the covers. Afterwards, you can use a moisturizer selected according to type .
Products for the prevention and elimination of wrinkles
Loss of firmness and elasticity of the skin, disruption of the oval of the face, the appearance of facial wrinkles, pigment spots - signs of age-related changes. This natural process is associated with hormonal changes and a new lifestyle. Rosemary oil is designed to stop its development and preserve youth as long as possible. To do this, you should use a nourishing cream and tonic lotion daily, and also make masks and compresses with a lifting effect several times a week.
To support your anti-aging beauty routine, fill your diet with seafood, fatty fish, nuts, natural vegetable oils, and fresh fruits and vegetables. Don't forget to drink 1.5–2 liters of clean water a day and do facial exercises.
Complex herbal infusion for face
Herbal infusion is an alternative to modern tonics and lotions. Its advantage is the absence of preservatives and useless chemicals.
Cooking method:
- Pour 400 ml of boiling water over a mixture of dry herbs: 10 g rosemary, 30 g chamomile, 20 g mint.
- When the broth has cooled, strain it through cheesecloth.
- Add 3 tbsp to the liquid. l. white wine and 5 drops of rosemary oil.
- Infuse the product for 2 weeks in a dark place.
Wipe your skin with the infusion every other day. Carry out the procedure 2-3 hours before bedtime.
Oil lifting mask
To prepare the mask, you will need one of the base oils: almond, avocado, rosehip, linseed or rose. All of them are powerful antioxidants and prevent skin aging. In combination with rosemary, they enhance the process of natural collagen production and smooth out fine wrinkles.
To prevent the components from losing their properties, you should make a fresh mask before each use.
The optimal ratio of rosemary ether to base oil is 1 drop per 1 tbsp. l. The finished mask is applied for half an hour and then washed off with water at room temperature.
Lymphatic drainage massage will help enhance the rejuvenating effect of oils. It is done using a special technique 10 minutes before applying the mask.
Olive oil mask
Olive oil is the simplest and most accessible anti-wrinkle remedy, known since Ancient Greece.
Mode of application:
- Beat 1 chicken yolk.
- Add 2 tbsp to it. l. olive oil and 3 drops of rosemary oil.
- Apply the mask to your skin.
- Rinse off after 15 minutes with warm water.
Rejuvenating express mask
A rejuvenating mask improves skin turgor, stimulates cellular biosynthesis and evens out complexion. Its main components:
- 8 drops rosemary essential oil;
- 12 g kelp seaweed;
- 4 g coconut oil;
- 6 g cocoa powder.
Mask with cocoa, kelp and rosemary - a combination of the best anti-aging ingredients
The cooking technology consists of several steps:
- Dilute dry seaweed with green tea in a ratio of 1:2.
- Leave for 5-7 minutes to infuse.
- Then add all other ingredients and mix.
- Apply the mask to your face along the massage lines.
- Rinse off after 30 minutes with mineral water.
- Secure the result with cosmetics high in hyaluronic acid.
- Repeat the procedure every week.
Anti-wrinkle oil mask
Rosemary oil in combination with any base oil is a universal care product. It can be used in the fight against wrinkles, acne and post-acne, scars, rosacea and other problems. The ratio of ether to base is standard: 2 drops per 1 tbsp. l.
Natural oils are essential components of a modern woman’s cosmetic bag.
The following oils are best suited for anti-aging purposes:
- peach;
- grape seed;
- almond;
- coconut;
- jojoba.
All of the products listed have a light texture and are suitable for use at any time of the year. They will not clog pores and will help the skin stay youthful and fresh longer.
Application for lips, eyelashes, hair
Rosemary is used to care for curls, add shine, shine, and prevent gray hair. Helps strengthen the root system, restores hair after extensions and perm. Enhances growth by accelerating blood flow and saturating the follicle with active elements. Fights dandruff and seborrhea, eliminates itching of the scalp .
Effective use in massage mixtures, oil applications, aromatherapy. You can also enrich shampoo, conditioner, spray, it helps reduce the secretion of sebium, giving volume and a well-groomed look to your curls. To restore dull, porous hair, it is recommended to use an oil rinse, mix 1 liter of water or herbal decoction with 3-5 drops of rosemary ether. Rinse your curls with the finished product after washing; your hair will be silky, elastic, and easy to style.
An effective product helps restore firmness and elasticity to the body. An effective product eliminates cellulite , stretch marks, sagging skin, and helps in correction .
Important point! Ether is not used to care for eyelashes, eyebrows, and lips. May cause swelling, tearing, and irritation of the mucous membrane.
To strengthen eyelashes and nourish lips, it is better to use base oils that have a mild effect.
Internal use
Rosemary ether is used to flavor alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Add to marinades, sauces, and combine with meat and fish dishes. It is used for medicinal purposes as a homeopathic remedy for pain relief, muscle relaxation, and restoration .
The recommended dosage is 1 drop of rosemary ether per 5 ml of oil or honey. Take 2 times a day for no more than 2-3 weeks; before starting treatment, consult a doctor, and if necessary, undergo an examination.
Contraindications:
- allergic reaction;
- hypertension;
- pathologies of the nervous system;
- pregnancy, lactation period.
Some more ways to use oil
In intimate life
Preparing an enticing aroma
It is not only in cosmetology that rosemary is so highly valued. The plant, which has aphrodisiac properties, can become the basis for an oil composition with an aphrodisiac effect. Other components in such a mixture can be any citrus oils or patchouli. To flavor a room, rosemary can be accompanied by: lavender, cinnamon, fir, oregano, mint, sage and some other essential oils.
Rosemary is considered a powerful aphrodisiac, affecting people of both sexes. The oil helps solve the problem of male infertility and makes a man more energetic. For women, this plant allows them to relax and avoid mood changes caused by hormonal reasons. For massage, 3 drops of EO are mixed with a couple of tablespoons of natural vegetable oil: almond, avocado, vegetable or even sunflower. It is not recommended to use mineral oils for aromatherapy massages, since the artificial composition of the product negates the effect of esters.
To improve memory and performance
The use of rosemary for aromatizing a room and massage helps improve performance, get rid of drowsiness, nervous tension, and headaches. Additional effect after aromatic procedures: strengthening the immune system and restoring the menstrual cycle.
You can use rosemary in:
- aroma lamps;
- aroma baths;
- massage treatments;
- for enriching cosmetic masks and creams, nail strengthening products;
- In minimal quantities, EO can be used to flavor drinks, meat and vegetable dishes.
Rosemary essential oil has not only an amazing aroma, but also toxic properties. In high concentrations the product is poisonous!
Precautionary measures
Before use , the aroma oil must be tested for a possible allergic reaction. After diluting with base oil, apply to the wrist and wait about half an hour. If there is no burning, redness or itching, the product can be used for cosmetic purposes. Also, ether should not be applied undiluted, as it can cause tissue burns.
There are a number of conditions in which the use of oil is contraindicated:
- individual intolerance;
- pregnancy, lactation period;
- epilepsy, convulsive syndrome;
- hypertension;
- taking homeopathic medicines.
Contraindications for use
Despite the large number of medicinal properties, rosemary oil has contraindications.
It cannot be used:
- pregnant or breastfeeding women;
- in the presence of individual intolerance;
- people suffering from arterial hypertension;
- if you have epilepsy or a tendency to seizures;
- insomnia or circadian rhythm inversion.
You should also use rosemary oil with caution in children under 7 years of age. At this age, the body is extremely sensitive to external stimuli.
Advantages and disadvantages
Rosemary ether has tonic, regenerating properties and is effective for solving a range of aesthetic problems. But when using a natural product, you need to take into account the advantages, disadvantages, and features of use.
Pros:
- prescribed for the care of oily, aging, mature skin, effective for the treatment of rosacea, acne, acne;
- can be combined with base oils, various esters, herbal compositions and other ingredients of natural cosmetics;
- can be used throughout the year, does not have photosensitivity properties to ultraviolet exposure;
- the result is noticeable after the first procedure;
- does not require frequent use, 1–3 times a week is enough;
- economical consumption, only a few drops are required to enrich cosmetics and create homemade recipes.
Minuses:
- has a number of contraindications;
- If the recommended dosage is exceeded, burns and tissue irritation are possible.
The best cosmetics with rosemary
Rosemary is added to creams, serums and masks for face and body care; gels and foams for washing, lotions, and tonics are made on its basis. Hair care products are effective. Essential oil is usually added to finished cosmetics. But you can find products based on plant extract.
In our opinion, there are 10 best cosmetics with rosemary. Their effectiveness has been proven by many positive reviews.
- Kiehl's Cucumber Herbal Conditioning Cleanser
. Cleansing gel for washing with cucumber extract, rosemary, lavender and lemon oils. Suitable for sensitive skin. Moisturizes, relieves inflammation.
- L'Oréal Paris Luxury nutrition Extraordinary facial oil.
Contains rosemary, lavender, shea, argan oils, jasmine extract, royal jelly, hyaluronic acid. Suitable for caring for any skin, even sensitive. Protects against free radicals, soothes, increases elasticity, improves complexion.
- Levrana Rosemary – body lotion
. Moisturizes, soothes, relieves irritation. Can be used for all skin types. Improves blood circulation, nourishes, tones. Contains rosemary, mint oils, walnut, carrot extract, glycerin, betaine.
- Bio Nature restorative alginate mask with lavender and rosemary
. Suitable for oily skin. Eliminates blackheads, mattifies, moisturizes, nourishes.
- Spivak shower gel with rosemary extract, tea tree, pine, coconut oils
. Designed for oily skin, normalizes the functioning of the sebaceous glands, mattifies, and effectively cleanses.
- Aromatica Vitalizing Rosemary Decoction
toner for sensitive skin. Contains extracts of rosemary, verbena, aloe, chamomile, rosemary oil. Mattifies, moisturizes, soothes, relieves irritation.
- MI&KO rosemary hydrolate
. Spray for oily skin care, suitable for hair. Used as a tonic, lotion, and moisturizing makeup base. Can be added to homemade masks. Hydrolate cleanses pores, mattifies, normalizes the functioning of the sebaceous glands.
- AVEDA rosemary Mint Purifying
– shampoo with rosemary and mint extracts. Restores hair shine, eliminates dryness, nourishes.
- Levrana shampoo-conditioner for all hair types
. Contains rosemary, mint, lavender, coconut oils, glycerin, herbal extracts. Prevents hair loss, stimulates hair growth, restores shine.
- Weleda Strengthening hair growth tonic with rosemary
. Suitable for daily use, does not require rinsing. Nourishes, strengthens, prevents fragility and loss.
Rosemary is an aromatic herb that can be grown on a windowsill and used for body care. Or buy ready-made extract, essential oil, cream. These products will restore elasticity, firmness, healthy color to the skin and help get rid of many cosmetic problems.
User reviews
On the Internet you can find reviews of many girls who take care of their appearance with the help of rosemary oil.
The review describes the use of oil for rashes; it is recommended to adhere to the exact dosage.
The girl writes that she uses the oil to treat acne.
The user describes in detail the fight against rashes.
The girl used rosemary oil to care for sensitive skin prone to rosacea
Using rosemary essential oil for dry skin
French rosemary is used in cosmetics for dry skin. They owe their effectiveness to the following beneficial properties of such a plant:
soften roughened epidermal surface; relieve inflammation; smooth out wrinkles; eliminate peeling; make the skin velvety to the touch.
French rosemary becomes a component of many anti-aging products. In addition, it is also used to care for aging and dehydrated skin. Cosmetic products with rosemary oil of this type also have a moisturizing and nourishing effect.
