Aromatherapy in Skincare: How Lavender and Citrus Oils Support Skin & Mind
Almost seven years ago, I looked at the ingredient list on my shower gel and realized there wasn’t a single ingredient I could pronounce.
It made me question what I was putting on my skin, so I decided to start creating my own clean products. I began by becoming a certified aromatherapist and continued my education by taking classes focused on formulating clean body care products. That’s how Chance of Sunny came to life.
As I began studying aromatherapy, I quickly fell in love with the powerful healing properties of plants and how inhaling essential oils can impact the central nervous system.
When we inhale an essential oil, the scent enters the nasal cavity, where some particles are absorbed by the olfactory bulb while the rest travel into the lungs.
Inside the nasal cavity is a specialized tissue called the olfactory epithelium, which contains roughly 3–5 million olfactory receptor cells in each nostril. These receptors convert scent molecules into chemical signals that become nerve impulses, which are then sent to the olfactory bulb.
From there, the signal travels along the olfactory tract to the limbic system, a network of brain structures that regulates emotions, memories, and behavior.
Because of this direct connection, scent is deeply tied to memory and emotional responses. Certain aromas can trigger memories or feelings, which is why a particular scent can instantly evoke a mood or emotional state.
One of my favorite essential oils to work with is lavender (Lavandula angustifolia).
Lavender is known for its nervine, sedative, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and hypotensive properties, making it an ideal oil for calming and soothing both the skin and the mind.
When applied topically, lavender can help support the skin by soothing acne, burns, sunburns, and eczema due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Emotionally, lavender is widely known for its calming and grounding qualities, helping ease anxiety and mental exhaustion.
There are many varieties of lavender, and each has its own subtle aromatic profile. If you grow lavender in your garden, simply rubbing the blossoms between your fingers releases the natural oils and fragrance.
Chemically, lavender essential oil is rich in monoterpene alcohols and esters, compounds that are generally considered gentle and non-irritating to the skin. Monoterpene alcohols are known to support the immune system and soothe the nervous system by helping reduce stress.
Esters are associated with anti-inflammatory properties and are known to relax muscular and nervous tension while promoting balance and calm.
I also love working with citrus oils, though it’s important to use them in the proper dilution and to select oils that are not phototoxic.
In my formulations, I work with sweet orange (Citrus aurantium dulcis), red mandarin, and tangerine (Citrus reticulata) in low dilutions. When used properly, these oils are considered safe for all ages and are not phototoxic.
Chemically, citrus oils are high in monoterpenes, which are known for their antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, while also being energizing, uplifting, and refreshing. Sweet orange, in particular, is known for its cheerful, mood-boosting aroma that can help ease feelings of anxiety.
When creating my line of products, I was very intentional about the ingredients I chose so that, even without essential oils, every formula is soothing and nurturing for the skin. The addition of aromatherapy simply adds another layer of support and healing, enhancing both the sensory experience and the overall wellness benefits of the products.
