Discover why basil could be the key to radiant, soothed skin.
Much more than just a seasoning, basil stands out today as a true natural asset for beautiful skin. Thanks to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial compounds, it helps fight blemishes, calm redness, and enhance skin radiance. Discover how its various forms (hydrosol, essential oil, extract) can effectively enrich your skincare routine.
1. A versatile natural ingredient
Basil (Ocimum basilicum) native to Southeast Asia and Central Africa, is now cultivated worldwide.
Its leaves contain various compounds such as flavonoids (orientine, vicenine), phenolic acids, vitamins (A, C, K) polyphenols (rosmarinic acid) and aromatic ingredients (eugenol, linalool) known for their soothing effects on the skin.
2. Hydrosol and essential oil: toning and antioxidant properties
- Hydrosol : obtained by steam distillation, it contains reduced amounts of active compounds. Appreciated for its tolerance, compatible with sensitive skin, children, and pregnant women.
- Essential oil : more concentrated, it mainly contains linalool and eugenol. It offers invigorating, regenerating, and antioxidant effects, which are useful in combating the free radicals responsible for cellular aging.
3. Plant extract: purifying and soothing
- Basil extract is rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids. It neutralizes free radicals and improves skin elasticity and suppleness.
- It has a purifying effect: it fights the bacteria responsible for spots, reduces inflammation, regulates excess sebum, and improves the appearance of dull complexions.
- Its anti-inflammatory properties help modulate cytokines, soothing sensitive or damaged skin.
4. Practical applications for the skin
- Visit toning lotion : the hydrosol provides softness and a refreshing effect, reduces redness and irritation. It reduces skin inflammation in sensitive or irritated skin.
- Visit cream or serum : the plant extract at 2–3% provides antioxidant and purifying benefits—without irritating fragile skin—and also has firming properties, making it ideal for mature skin.
- Visit mask : combined with clays, it purifies pores and revitalizes the complexion, regulates sebum and calms inflammation in oily or acne-prone skin.
5. Precautions for using essential oils
- Not recommended during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or for young children.
- Must be diluted (≤ 0.5–0.7 %) in vegetable oil before use.
- A preliminary skin test is recommended.
- Not recommended for people taking anticoagulants (risk of overdose).
