B25021 I By Lara Campbell, PharmD Class of 2026, ACP
Can Lavender Oil Heal Your Skin?
Lavender essential oil (Lavandula angustifolia) has been traditionally used to treat skin wounds, burns, inflammation, and various skin conditions, including eczema. It is widely recognized for its soothing aroma and healing properties. Recent scientific studies reveal its mechanisms in accelerating wound healing, reducing inflammation, fighting microbes, and alleviating symptoms of childhood atopic eczema, confirming its value as a natural remedy for skin care.
What the Science Says
Here’s a breakdown of key studies exploring lavender oil’s benefits for wound healing, skin regeneration, antimicrobial defense, and eczema relief:
How It Works: The Science Behind the Soothe
Lavender oil is extracted by steam distillation of Lavandula angustifolia flowers. Its key bioactive compounds include:
- Linalool and linalyl acetate — responsible for antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and calming effects
- 1,8-cineole, camphor, and β-caryophyllene contribute to antimicrobial and analgesic properties
The oil modulates inflammation by inhibiting macrophage pyroptosis, stimulates skin repair through VEGF-induced angiogenesis, enhances antioxidant enzyme activity to reduce oxidative stress, and directly inhibits bacteria and fungi on the skin.
How to Use It: Products & Applications
Looking to add lavender oil to your skincare routine? Here are some safe and effective ways:
- Diluted essential oils (0.5–1%) in carrier oils like jojoba or sweet almond, for daily skin care or massage
- Creams and ointments designed for wound healing or eczema
- Aromatherapy massage oils, especially helpful for stress-related skin flare-ups
Always make sure the product is labeled for topical use, and avoid undiluted application to broken or sensitive skin.
Side Effects and Safety
- Skin irritation or allergic reaction is possible; a patch test is recommended before use
- Avoid undiluted application on broken or sensitive skin
- Consult healthcare providers if pregnant, breastfeeding, or on medications
- Not recommended for ingestion without professional supervision
Final Thoughts
Scientific research supports the traditional use of topical lavender oil for wound healing, reducing inflammation, providing antimicrobial protection, and serving as a complementary approach in managing atopic eczema. Its mechanisms include inhibition of inflammatory cell death, promotion of blood vessel growth, and antioxidant enhancement, all contributing to faster, healthier skin recovery. For safe and effective use, diluted topical formulations and supervised essential oil massage may be recommended.
References
- Ao X, Yan H, Huang M, Xing W, Ao LQ, Wu XF, Pu CX, Zhang BY, Xu X, Liang HP, Guo W. Lavender essential oil accelerates lipopolysaccharide-induced chronic wound healing by inhibiting caspase-11-mediated macrophage pyroptosis. Kaohsiung J Med Sci. 2023 May;39(5):511-521. doi: 10.1002/kjm2.12654. Epub 2023 Feb 6. PMID: 36744836; PMCID: PMC11895895
- Nurzyńska-Wierdak, R.; Pietrasik, D.; Walasek-Janusz, M. Essential Oils in the Treatment of Various Types of Acne—A Review. Plants 2023, 12, 90. https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12010090
- Mori, HM., Kawanami, H., Kawahata, H. et al. Wound healing potential of lavender oil by acceleration of granulation and wound contraction through induction of TGF-β in a rat model. BMC Complement Altern Med 16, 144 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12906-016-1128-7
- Anderson C, Lis-Balchin M, Kirk-Smith M. Evaluation of massage with essential oils on childhood atopic eczema. Phytother Res. 2000 Sep;14(6):452-6. doi: 10.1002/1099-1573(200009)14:6<452::aid-ptr952>3.0.co;2-4. PMID: 10960901
- Hili P, Evans CG, Veness RG. Phytother Res. 2000;14(6):452-456. DOI:10.1002/1099-1573(200009)14:6<452::AID-PTR952>3.0.CO;2-4
Acknowledgment:
This blog was prepared with assistance from ChatGPT by OpenAI. The featured image was taken at Lurie Garden, located at the southern end of Millennium Park, Chicago, in July 2025.
Note:
This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement.
Share Your Experience
Have you ever used this supplement? We’d love to hear your story!
✅ Did it help?
⚠️ Any side effects?
💊 What dosage and form did you use?
Your comments help others and contribute to a growing database of real-world evidence.
Thank you for sharing!