Essential oils studied for anti-irritant properties

The cosmetics industry has been using essential oils for their fragrance, but many essential oils have other positive properties, such as antiseptic and anti-irritant properties. According to a recent study, even very low concentrations of fragrant materials exhibit anti-irritant properties, which could be effective in helping create milder cosmetic products. The study, published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science, used human cell-derived skin models to test the effects of the essential oils. Irritation in the samples was induced via cosmetically relevant irritants such as UVB irradiation and antiperspirant salts. The presence of chemicals released in response to inflammation or infection was used to indicate irritated skin. The researchers then were able to identify 39 natural and synthetic fragrance materials that reduced the irritation. Read more at CosmeticsDesign-Europe.com