Is eucalyptus oil good for skin?

The Eucalyptus tree is an Australian native from which eucalyptus oil is derived. It is a plant widely consumed for millennia by the Aboriginal people due to the healing properties of the plant substance. It has gradually gained more and more popularity all over the globe and nowadays it is used in various capacities both as domestic treatment and commercial cosmetic product. Probably one of the most common questions about eucalyptus oil is how good is it for skin. In this article, we will see about eucalyptus oil uses, skin benefits, and possible disadvantages of using it on the skin.

Eucalyptus essential oil has unusual healing properties for skin.

1. Antibacterial properties

Eucalyptus oil has a broad antimicrobial action that makes it ideal for treating skin disorders and inflammation. Several studies have shown that this oil is highly efficient to kill different sorts of bacteria including the antibiotic-resistant ones. Eucalyptus oil kills bacteria on contact: a study conducted in the Journal of Medical Microbiology in 2007. This is true since eucalyptus oil when applied on the skin will help in reducing chances of infections, and at the same time support the wound to heal faster.

2. Anti-inflammatory properties

Eucalyptus oil also possesses high anti-inflammatory action. Therefore, it becomes valuable when treating skin-related inflammation diseases like eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis. In the 2014 research published at the International Journal of Dermatology, it has been found that applying eucalyptus oil on the skin helps lessen inflammation and inflammation related pain. Also, the anti-inflammatory nature of the oil contributes positively to the skin’s ability not to age early than it should and even support the healthier skin tone.

3. Acne treatment

Eucalyptus oil is widely used in treating acne situations among people; it is a common practice. The oil can fight the bacteria that cause the acne, and the second property inhibits inflammation and swelling of the skin. A 2014 article published in the Iranian Journal of Pharmaceutical Research showed that eucalyptus oil could offer significant P. acnes – a bacterium in developing acne – growth suppressing activity. For these reasons, eucalyptus oil is one of the recommended natural remedies for people with acne skin.

4. Healing wounds

Moreover, using Eucalyptus oil makes it possible to ensure the proper treatment of injuries and cuts. This one kill germs that cause infections, and has an anti-inflammatory effect to minimize pain and inflammation. In addition, eucalyptus oil is thought to have a similar effect as the essential oil of wounded skin thus encouraging the growth of new skin layers. To use eucalyptus oil for wound healing add a drop directly to the cut or scrape, or mix it with another oil – choose coconut, jojoba, olive, or any other vegetable oil you prefer – before applying.

Forms and Compositions of Eucalyptus Oil on the Skin

1. Dilution with a carrier oil

Eucalyptus oil has a very high concentration, so when applied externally, it has to be diluted. A typical dilution has 3 or 4 parts of carrier oil to 1 part of eucalyptus oil. Car carrier oils include coconut oil, sweet almond oil, and so on. To use, put the oils in a tiny glass vessel, mix them up, and then take a pea-sized amount and rub it on the targeted region.

2. Skin masks and scrubs

Eucalyptus oil is used in homemade skin masks and scrubs. It is hydrating, works as a cleanser and peeler, and is also used in scrubs. Another recipe for a scrub is to mix eucalyptus oil with raw sugar, honey, and carrier oil. To make a mask, add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to bentonite clay, honey, and aloe vera gel. Put the mask on the face, neck, and decollete, let it act for 10-15 minutes, and then wash off with warm water.

3. Topical application

It is also used topically in cases such as acne and skin inflammation or in a diffuser for its medicinal and relaxing purposes. But if you want to use it, just mix the oil with a carrier oil and then clean your face with a cotton bud to rub it on the affected area.

Possible Adverse Effects of Applying Eucalyptus Oil on the Human Skin

1. Skin irritation

Like other essential oils, eucalyptus oil is generally safe for most people, but it’s possible you can cause skin rash. This is even more so for those with sensitive skin, or are allergic to the oil. If you plan to apply eucalyptus oil on the skin, first do a skin test on any part of the body to see whether your skin will react pretty to it.

2. Phototoxicity

It has been known that Eucalyptus oil leads to photosensitization, which means that when the skin is exposed to UV light, it becomes sensitive to ridges. It is also important not to apply eucalyptus oil to skin sections that will have contact with the sun, and if applying it externally, always use sunscreen.