What is Achillea Millefolium Oil?
Achillea Millefolium Oil, also known as Yarrow oil, is an essential oil derived from the flowering herb of the Yarrow plant, scientifically known as Achillea millefolium L., a member of the Asteraceae family. This plant is native to the temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere and has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. The oil is rich in chemical compounds such as azulene, beta-pinene, borneol, camphor, cineole, and isoartemesia ketone, which contribute to its various cosmetic functions.
The use of Achillea Millefolium Oil in cosmetics can be traced back to ancient times when it was used for its healing and soothing properties. The oil is obtained through a process known as steam distillation, where the plant’s flowers are exposed to high-temperature steam to extract the essential oil. This process ensures the preservation of the beneficial properties of the oil, making it a valuable ingredient in cosmetic products.
While there are other essential oils used in cosmetics for similar purposes, such as lavender oil and tea tree oil, Achillea Millefolium Oil stands out due to its unique combination of properties. It is not only soothing and refreshing but also has anti-seborrheic properties, making it beneficial for oily and acne-prone skin. Furthermore, it serves as a cleansing agent and a natural fragrance, enhancing the overall sensory experience of the cosmetic product.
Achillea Millefolium Oil is typically used in a variety of cosmetic products due to its versatility. You can find this ingredient in moisturizers, serums, cleansers, and toners. It is also commonly used in hair care products for its ability to regulate sebum production, thereby preventing an oily scalp and promoting healthier hair.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Achillea Millefolium Oil:
Anti-Seborrheic
Achillea Millefolium Oil is known for its anti-seborrheic properties. In layman’s terms, this means it can help control the production of sebum, the oil produced by our skin. Excessive sebum can lead to oily skin and conditions like acne. By regulating sebum production, Achillea Millefolium Oil can help maintain a balanced and healthy skin condition.
Cleansing
This essential oil also functions as a cleanser. It helps to remove dirt, oil, and impurities from the skin, leaving it clean and refreshed. This makes it a valuable ingredient in skincare products like cleansers and toners.
Fragrance and Perfuming
Achillea Millefolium Oil is often used for its fragrance and perfuming properties. It imparts a pleasant, natural aroma to cosmetic products, enhancing the overall user experience.
Refreshing
One of the key benefits of Achillea Millefolium Oil is its refreshing effect. It can leave the skin feeling invigorated and revitalized, making it a popular ingredient in skincare products designed to refresh and awaken the skin.
Soothing
Achillea Millefolium Oil is also recognized for its soothing properties. It can help calm irritated skin, reducing redness and inflammation. This makes it a beneficial ingredient in products designed for sensitive or irritated skin.
Tonic
As a tonic, Achillea Millefolium Oil can help to tone and firm the skin. It can improve the skin’s elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, contributing to a more youthful and radiant complexion.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Achillea Millefolium Oil. There may be other benefits and uses that go beyond the scope of these official functions, but these are the primary benefits as recognized by the CosIng Database.
Safety Profile
Achillea Millefolium Oil is not a banned or regulated ingredient in cosmetics. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare and beauty products. However, like any ingredient, it may not be suitable for all skin types and can potentially cause allergic reactions in some individuals.
Potential side effects of topical application of Achillea Millefolium Oil include:
- Redness
- Itching
- Swelling
- Rash
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – There is currently limited data on the safety of Achillea Millefolium Oil during pregnancy or breastfeeding. As such, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional before using products containing this ingredient.
While side effects and adverse reactions to Achillea Millefolium Oil are not common, it is always recommended to perform a patch test before widespread usage. This can help identify any potential allergic reactions or sensitivities.
This ingredient analysis has been commissioned by Truth In Skincare (TiS), an independent industry regulator. The analysis was conducted by a TiS-appointed industry consultant, using sources including the CosIng (Cosmetic Ingredient Database – by the European Commission), the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA), as well as other various publicly available sources.
