Top Benefits of Frankincense Oil for Skin

Gold, frankincense, and myrrh were ancient gifts for kings. However, frankincense essential oil reigns supreme today because of its potential skin and health benefits. Like liquid gold, this precious essential oil has been celebrated for centuries. Here, we explore the potential benefits of frankincense essential oils for the skin.

What is frankincense oil?

Frankincense is a Boswellia serrata gum resin derived from the trunk of the Boswellia tree, which mainly grows in Africa and the Middle East. Frankincense essential oil is famed for its rich, earthy aroma, and because of its potential therapeutic properties, it has been a centuries-old staple in traditional medicine and cosmetic applications.

Frankincense oil has antioxidant properties and is highly valued for its anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties, which could contribute to skin health. It can be combined with other oils, such as lavender or rose oil.

How is frankincense oil extracted?

Commercial frankincense oil is frankincense essential oil produced and sold on a large scale. It is usually extracted through a process known as steam distillation.

This extraction involves heating the Boswellia serrata gum resin and condensing the resulting vapor into an essential oil. The longer the extraction process, the higher the frankincense essential oil produced.

Like frankincense oil, frankincense extract is derived from the Boswellia serrata tree but is prepared differently. Instead of being extracted through steam distillation, frankincense extract is usually obtained using solvents or alcohol, which produces a liquid or powdered substance.

Historical uses of frankincense oil

The benefits of frankincense oil are well-known in traditional Chinese medicine. It has been praised for its anti-inflammatory properties, which are traditionally used to manage chronic and inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease. However, present clinical research lacks frankincense oil, and further studies are needed to substantiate these claimed health benefits.

Frankincense oil historically exhibits antiseptic and sedative properties, claimed to potentially relieve pain. A 2023 research study suggested that frankincense extract has anti-cancer properties against breast cancer cells. This is a promising finding, which needs further study.

Another 2013 publication showed that Boswellia serrata extract has a soothing effect on irritated skin, reducing redness and evening skin tone.

Key benefits of frankincense oil for the skin

Frankincense oil's benefits go beyond traditional medicinal applications. They extend to skin health applications, making it a sought-after ingredient in skincare products and routines.

Anti-aging properties

Frankincense essential oil is thought to have anti-aging properties; however, clinical trials have not confirmed this property. A 2023 study in rodents explored whether frankincense essential oil exhibits an anti-aging effect. Researchers reported that there is some evidence that frankincense oil might protect against aging that is related to ultraviolet radiation.

The potential anti-aging effects of frankincense oil could be due to the following:

• It may promote skin elasticity. The regular use of frankincense oil may improve skin elasticity, potentially leading to firmer skin.
• It may reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Because of its anti-stringent effect, using frankincense oil may tighten the skin to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Skin healing and regeneration

Limited studies show that frankincense essential oil may alter the production of collagen III. This collagen is produced during the early stages of wound healing. As a result of the collagen III alteration, frankincense oil may contribute to accelerating scar and wound healing.

Frankincense essential oil may inhibit collagen III levels, potentially providing a smoother transition in wound healing. This smooth transition may help prevent the thick, raised scars from forming. However, more research is needed to support this claim.

Antimicrobial effects

In one study, frankincense oil was investigated for its antimicrobial and antiseptic properties against pathogens and airborne microbes, potentially due to its bioactive compounds, boswellic acids. These properties could be indirectly linked to anti-inflammatory effects; however, further study is necessary to support these claims.

Moisturizing and hydrating

As mentioned above, frankincense oil contains boswellic acids, the main active compounds in frankincense oil. Frankincense oil also contains monoterpenes.

The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of these bioactive compounds (shown in rodent and pathogenic samples) suggest that frankincense oil may potentially help improve the function of the skin's barrier, supporting moisture retention. However, these promising hypotheses require further investigation in humans.

How to use frankincense oil on skin

Frankincense oil can be absorbed into the skin after being mixed with a carrier oil. These carrier oils are usually obtained from nuts, seeds, or fruits and provide additional hydration to the skin.

Carrier oils are neutral oils (e.g., jojoba oil, olive oil, grapeseed oil, coconut oil, and argan oil) used to dilute essential oils (e.g., frankincense oil), making the highly concentrated essential oil safer and more effective on the skin.

Diluting frankincense essential oil in a carrier oil is crucial to prevent side effects like skin irritation and to ensure better absorption. To get the most benefit from frankincense oil, safely and effectively add it to your skincare routine. The following practices could be considered:

1. Dilute. Dilute frankincense oil with a carrier oil before applying it to your skin. The general guidance for the safe ratios for dilution when applying to the face is six drops of essential oil per ounce of carrier oil.
2. Patch test. Apply a few drops of the diluted oil on a small skin area (like behind your ear). Wait for at least 24 hours to check for any side effects (such as irritation or redness).
3. Application. To clean, dry skin, use gentle, circular motions to apply the diluted oil. You can focus on areas where you think extra hydration or moisture is required.
4. Sun protection. Always use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF when applying an essential oil to the skin, especially if you are using it in the daytime.
5. Frequency. Frankincense oil can be used 1–2 times daily, depending on your specific skin concern and tolerance. Overusing it could potentially lead to irritation or other side effects.
6. Storage. Always store frankincense oil in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight, to maintain its potency and extend its shelf life.

If you have sensitive skin, consult with a dermatologist for personalized advice.

How to choose high-quality frankincense oil

Choosing high-quality frankincense oil is vital to utilizing its potential skin benefits. The following section explores crucial factors to consider when buying frankincense oil and some key ingredients to look out for.

Here are some factors to consider when buying frankincense oil for skin care:

• Purity and concentration. Look for oils labeled as 100% pure frankincense essential oil. These should not contain additives or synthetic ingredients. Choose undiluted oils to control the concentration by diluting them with your chosen carrier oil.
• Organically and sustainably sourced options. Organic options are more eco-friendly, and choosing from organic sources ensures that the Boswellia serrata gum resin is harvested without pesticides. Sustainably sourced options may often come from regions like Oman or Ethiopia, which are known for producing high-quality frankincense oil.
• Certification. Look for certifications from reputable organic certifying bodies, like USDA Organic, that indicate the oil is of high quality and purity.
• Third-party testing. Some brands often provide third-party testing results, ensuring product quality and composition.
• Package. To protect from light and oxidation, essential oils should be stored in dark glass bottles.

Key ingredients to look out for

In addition to the factors mentioned above, it is important to know the key active compounds to look out for:

• Monoterpenes. These chemical compounds have shown potential anti-inflammatory properties in rodent samples. Therefore, it is believed that frankincense oil may improve the skin's barrier function, potentially supporting moisture retention.
• Boswellic acids. As mentioned, against pathogens and airborne microbes, these acids have antimicrobial properties and, indirectly, potential anti-inflammatory properties.

It is important to note that more human research is needed to support these suggested health benefits. High-quality frankincense oil can be purchased from different sources, such as online retailers, natural health stores, pharmacies, or essential oil companies.

Bottom line

Frankincense oil reigns supreme in skincare, offering potential royal treatment to the skin. With its possible health benefits through its bioactive compounds, frankincense essential oil could be a key to achieving radiant, healthy skin. Its antiseptic, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties make frankincense oil a possible staple in skincare routines.

However, most of these properties have not been confirmed in clinical trials involving humans. As always, consult with a dermatologist before introducing it into your routine.