Which brand of essential oils is the best? What brand of essential oils are high quality?
Raw materials markets have been divided for a very long time and the advantages of well-known manufacturers of essential oils lie not only in a good technological base and possession of production secrets, but also in the ability to purchase the best, first-class raw materials. Therefore, the brand name in this market segment means not only a high price, but also excellent quality that meets all standards.
The main consumers of the essential aromatic product are pharmaceutical enterprises, food and cosmetics industries. The process of making essential oils is very labor-intensive and lengthy, so the cost of natural oil simply cannot be low. Essential Oil Manufacturers must process more than one ton of raw materials to obtain several kilograms of aromatic elixir.
Today, there are several ways to obtain an aromatic substance. Manufacturers of essential oils use them depending on the raw materials and the purpose of the final product.
1. Steam distillation
This method allows you to preserve all the essential oil of the plant; it has been known since the times of Ancient Egypt. The raw materials are placed in a container and filled with hot water. During the heating process, water mixed with plant sap rises and passes through special filters that retain essential oils. The water in which plants were evaporated is also used in cosmetology and is the basis of lotions and refreshing sprays.
2. Solvent extraction
In this case essential oil manufacturers They use slightly different equipment. The feedstock is placed on grids and installed in a huge tank. Volatile solvents begin to be driven through it, which, during the distillation process, are saturated with aromatic vapors. The resulting substance is a solid flower extract and is in demand among perfume manufacturers, as it has a more intense odor.
3. Obtaining the absolute
The flower extract is poured into an alcohol base, which gradually evaporates, leaving the so-called “absolute”. It has a slightly different chemical composition than the extract or and is widely used in cosmetology.
4. Push-ups
This method is used essential oil producers for obtaining a squeeze from the peels of citrus fruits: lemons, oranges, tangerines, grapefruit, bergamot. This used to be a completely manual process, but nowadays centrifuges are used. The oil obtained in this way is considered to be of very high quality and does not contain impurities.
There are currently several well-known essential oil producers, which enjoy well-deserved authority and sell products of excellent quality.
Aromatherapy Karel Hadek (Germany)
Karel Hadek is a famous aromatherapist from Germany. He is the author of many original recipes that have already won recognition among Europeans. The company produces cosmetics and aromatherapy products, including essential oils. In the manufacture of its products, the company uses only natural ingredients obtained without the use of harmful chemical compounds.
Bergland-Pharma (Germany)
The company was founded 25 years ago in Germany. Today it is one of the most venerable essential oil producers, its products account for more than 30% of all essential oils presented on the European market. Delivers to Germany, Hungary, Czech Republic, Switzerland, Austria, etc.
Styx naturcosmetics (Austria)
The activities of the famous Austrian company are not limited only to the development of recipes, research into the quality of raw materials and the production of aromatic oils. Company representatives regularly visit essential oil plantations around the world and monitor the environmental situation in these areas.
Just International (Switzerland)
The Swiss company has been known for over 75 years as essential oil manufacturer with a high degree of purification. The company is one of the leading suppliers of excellent quality natural products to the world market. All oils produced by Just are made from plant materials without the use of dyes or chemical additives.
Vivasan (Switzerland)
The company's success is based on the use of only natural raw materials in the manufacture of products. The company applies all the latest developments and scientific discoveries in the field of healthy nutrition and medicinal cosmetics, produces drugs and essential oils exclusively based on plant raw materials.
When purchasing essential oil, remember that it is an expensive natural product, and its therapeutic and cosmetic properties directly depend on the quality and manufacturer.
Svetlana Krutova
Women's magazine JustLady
).
In the global production of major natural oils, citrus essential oils ( and ) account for about 40% of global essential oil production. These are the cheapest oils, due to the fact that they are currently a by-product in the production of citrus juices.
The demand for citrus oils is great due to the fashion for fresh citrus aromas in perfumery, cosmetics, the production of chewing gum, flavorings for drinks, in household chemicals and the production of detergents.
It accounts for up to 13% in the global structure of essential oils production. can be called a hit among essential oils. Peppermint essential oil is widely used in the food industry, medicine, and in the production of toothpastes and chewing gum. Among the high-menthol types of mint oils, natural menthol is isolated, which is indispensable in the preparation of a number of drugs for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
The main volume of production of essential oils is concentrated in the countries of North and South America (40% of the world production of these products), Asia accounts for 30% and 25% is produced in Europe.
On the American continent, the largest producer is Brazil, producing about 6 thousand tons. essential oils, including peppermint, citronella, sassafras, lemongrass, eucalyptus, vetiver, patchouli, palmarosa and rosewood essential oil.
The USA produces about 5 thousand tons of essential oils, including 1 thousand tons each of mint, citrus and cedar, as well as clary sage and sweet basil oils.
Argentina produces citrus, citronella, guaiac, lemongrass, mint, and nerole essential oils in amounts slightly less than 1 thousand tons. Paraguay produces mint and petitgrain; Guatemala, Honduras and Mexico - citrus and lemongrass; Salvador - Peruvian balsam; Haiti - non-rolewood, petitgrain and vetiver; Colombia - Tolu balsam; Peru - rosewood essential oil.
In Asia, the largest producer of essential oils is China, which produces mint oil, citronella, cedarwood, and in smaller quantities geranium, jasmine, patchouli, eugenol, basil, lemongrass, santal, star anise, and ginger oils.
India produces more than 120 tons of essential oils (santhal, mint, palmarosa, lemongrass, citronella, etc.) and almost the same amount in Indonesia (citronella, clove, vetiver, patchouli, sandalwood). Vietnam produces a large volume of essential oils (citronella, star anise, cubebean).
Japan produces about 200 tons of essential oils (mint, geranium, citrus, patchouli, vetiver, rose) and at the same time the country is one of the major importers, in Sri Lanka - up to 100 tons (citronella, lemongrass, cinnamon, cardamom).
The largest producer of essential oils in Europe is Spain, which annually produces up to 1,500 tons of essential oils, mainly lavender, eucalyptus, rosemary and thyme. France produces about 1000 tons of essential oils, mainly lavender and santhal.
Italy is the main producer of citrus oils.
Bulgaria produces the best in the world, etc. In the Soviet Union, from 800 to 1300 tons of essential oils were produced, among them the world's best coriander oil, as well as mint, rose, lavender, and sage oils. In the 90s this industry fell into decline, but is gradually beginning to revive. Currently, the production of fir oil, which is highly valued throughout the world, has been established.
The level of development of the essential oil industry in a particular country can be assessed by the quality of products and the wide range of essential oils in production. About 30 years ago, Europe had the highest level of development of the essential oil industry. France produced over 60 types of high quality essential oils. The Soviet Union produced 25 types of these products, followed by Italy, Spain, and Bulgaria. In other countries, the range of oils was limited to no more than ten items, with a pronounced specialization of one to five types.
The largest exporter and importer of essential oils on the world market is the USA. But if the basis of US exports is only four types of essential oils (orange, mint, lemon, cedar), then imports are more than 30.
Large quantities of essential oils in a wide range are imported by countries of the European continent, primarily France, England, Holland and Germany. Export supplies in these countries are significantly lower.
Crisis phenomena of the 70s. last century in the global economy, rising prices for energy resources and land led to higher prices for all types of industrial and agricultural products, including essential oils, the production of which in some cases became unprofitable. All this resulted in the curtailment of the production of essential oils in a number of countries.
The volume and range of essential oils produced in France and other industrialized countries have been significantly reduced due to difficulties in providing cheap labor and acreage for cultivation. Under these conditions, France took the path of organizing joint essential oil production in the developing countries of Morocco, Egypt, etc.).
Competition significantly hinders the development of essential oil production. Thus, coffee and soybeans have become serious competitors for the production of essential oils in Brazil and Argentina. Growing demand and high prices for coffee and soybeans contributed to the development of the production of these crops to the detriment of essential oils.
The development of essential oil production and the growth in the production of synthetic aromatic substances, which in some cases successfully replace natural essential oils, are hindered.
Traditional centers of essential oil production continue to move to third world countries, which are located in natural and climatic conditions optimal for the cultivation of essential oils, have cheap labor and relatively free land areas. China is gradually becoming one of the largest producers of essential oils.
It is now home to the world's main production of high-menthol essential oil of japonica, which in 1940 was concentrated in Japan and then in Brazil. The main production of citronella oil moved to China from Sri Lanka, and eucalyptus oil from Australia.
The United States has ceased to be a monopoly in the production of cedar oil, as China is intensively developing the production of its cedar oil from mourning cypress wood. The center of vetiver oil production moved from the island. Reunion to Indonesia, and the centers of geranium oil production are located in Egypt and on the island. Reunion. The main production of jasmine oil, which was traditionally produced in Italy, Morocco and France, moved to Egypt.
Counterfeiting of essential oils
Many people mistakenly believe that artificial and synthetic oils are counterfeits of natural essential oils. This perception is incorrect even when they are marketed as natural essential oils for commercial purposes. Such perfume base compositions can rather be called a “surrogate” of natural essential oil.
The use of synthetic and artificial essential oils in perfumery is legal and very convenient when composing perfume compositions, as it ensures consistency of composition and aroma, which cannot be achieved using only natural essential oils.
After all, the composition and smell of different batches of natural essential oil of a particular name may have significant fluctuations depending on the quality of the processed plant raw materials, processing technology and other factors.
However, the use of synthetic and artificial oils on a par with natural ones in the food industry, medicine and aromatherapy is unacceptable, since they do not have the consumer and pharmacological properties that are inherent in natural essential oils and can cause harm due to the presence of components and isomers that are unusual for natural essential oils and have other effects on the human body.
The falsification of natural essential oils should be understood as a deliberate change in the composition of a natural essential oil for selfish purposes by mixing various additives and partially extracting the most valuable components of the essential oil while maintaining the appearance of the commercial quality of the product. Oil obtained from falsified plant raw materials can also be considered falsified.
Synthetic additives, highly volatile (the so-called turpentine fractions of some essential oils, cheaper essential oils, as well as purified kerosene, fatty vegetable and even mineral oils) can be used as products of falsification of essential oils.
Usually, unscrupulous manufacturers resort to falsification of essential oils in order to sell non-standard products, especially when it comes to expensive essential oils.
Rose essential oil can be adulterated with cheaper oils containing terpene alcohols (citronellol, geraniol), geranium oil fractions, or palmarosa.
Very expensive lemon verbena essential oil may be adulterated with citrus essential oils or synthetic citral, and vetiver oil may be adulterated with synthetic 2-methyl-2,4-pentanediol.
Very expensive due to the low yield and the high labor intensity of its production is lemon balm essential oil, which has a pleasant minty-lemon smell due to the presence of neral, citronellal, geraniniol, linalool, and caryophyllene oxide in its composition. These components, synthesized long ago, can be used for adulteration.
There are known cases of replacing lemon balm essential oil with blackbeard oil (West Indian lemongrass oil) or citronella. There are ersatzes (substitutes) for lemon balm oil. However, substitutes, unless they are presented as natural essential oils, cannot be considered adulteration. In order to be sure of the authenticity of lemon balm essential oil, a complete instrumental analysis of the sample should be carried out. Chamomile essential oil is falsified by adding synthetic bisabolol or chamazulene and even high-boiling fractions of cheap essential oils.
Expensive and scarce Indian santhal essential oil is falsified by adding cedar and guaiac oils or their fractions, as well as synthetic products with a santhal odor.
Expensive jasmine concrete is adulterated with waxes obtained during the production of jasmine absolute oil in concrete. Absolute jasmine oil is adulterated with synthetic jasmine-scented products. Mixing cheap essential oils with more expensive ones is a very common method of adulteration of many other oils.
Hyssop essential oil, widely used in aromatherapy, can be adulterated with cheaper essential oils or their fractions, such as cheap eucalyptus oil.
Caiput essential oil, containing up to 60% cineole, is also quite often adulterated with eucalyptus oil.
Ho oil is used to adulterate coriander essential oil. Orange bitter (orange) essential oil, obtained by pressing from the peel of ripe orange fruits, is adulterated with the addition of cheaper, sweet orange oil, or volatile fractions separated during the desaturation of citrus essential oils, or essential oil distilled with steam from the peel after pressing.
In turn, orange (bitter and sweet) essential oil from the peel, as well as turpentine fractions of these oils, can be used to adulterate the more expensive petitgrain oil obtained from the leaves of this plant.
Neroli essential oil from bitter orange and sweet orange flowers is adulterated by adding petitgrain oil.
Clove oil from the buds of the clove tree is mixed with oil from the leaves and pedicels; and geranium - with citronella. Pyment essential oil from the fruit is mixed with cheaper clove oil.
Rosemary essential oil is adulterated with cheaper camphor or eucalyptus oils.
Bay essential oil can be adulterated with cheaper eucalyptus or cajeput oils.
To falsify some essential oils, vegetable and mineral oils, as well as purified kerosene fractions, are used. Turpentine oil is adulterated with petroleum fractions, ylang-ylang oil is adulterated with vegetable (castor, coconut, etc.) and mineral oils, essential iris oil is used with castor and some mineral oils. The content of adulterating additives in cassium (Chinese cinnamon) oil can range from 20 to 60% (rosin, fatty oils, purified kerosene, etc.).
When falsifying essential oils, various products of organic synthesis are widely used, especially cheap synthetic aromatic substances. Thus, synthetic linalool and linalyl acetate are used to adulterate lavender oil. Typically, these components are added to substandard lavender oil containing linalool and linalyl acetate below the norm provided for by the standard.
This additive is foreign to natural lavender oil and disrupts the harmony of its composition. Organaleptically (by smell) such falsification is almost impossible to recognize. This can be done using chemical techniques. Synthetic linalool and linalyl acetate are also added to sage and bergamot oils, and linalool to iris and coriander oils.
Synthetic terpineol and benzyl alcohol can also be found in adulterated coriander oil. To adulterate anise oil, synthetic anethole is used, which is 20 times more toxic than natural one. Cheap synthetic eugenol, linalool and geraniol are added to basil essential oil.
Oil obtained from falsified vegetable raw materials can also be considered adulterated. For example, patchouli leaves are mixed with low-grade patchouli leaves or leaves of other odorless plants, and soil and sand are mixed in. Impurities can reach 50%.
Many essential oils turn out to be adulterated after the most valuable natural components are isolated from them.
Essential oils intended for aromatherapy require a more in-depth assessment of quality. Aromatherapy involves the use of essential oils in higher concentrations than for perfumes and cosmetics (usually from 1 to 3%) and deeper penetration into the human body through the skin (massage, baths), through the mucous membrane of the nasopharynx and lungs (especially during inhalation), some Schools of aromatherapists practice taking essential oils internally.
A course of aromatherapy using the same essential oils can last up to three weeks. During this time, a cumulative accumulation of some components of essential oils in the human body is possible. Therefore, aromatherapy must use natural essential oils of the highest quality and the evaluation of these oils must be especially strict!
It is also important to pay attention to the following aspects:
Since world prices for essential oil raw materials are prohibitive for the Russian cosmetics market, manufacturers of finished cosmetic products mainly use imported surrogates. As a rule, cheap essential oils or even worse - surrogates identical to natural ones are brought to Russia. For example, the price of clary sage or lavender oils produced in our country ranges from 100-160 dollars per kilogram, and is not available to domestic cosmetics manufacturers. And imported lavender oil costs 30-35 dollars. At the same time, no one questions why, when the cost of lavender oil on the world market is 90-100 dollars, and rose oil - thousands of dollars, we buy these imported oils for 30-40 and 200-250 dollars, respectively, or even cheaper? It doesn’t arise because everyone understands: these are some cheap analogues and they have little to do with natural oil;
Table 1 - Main areas of essential oil production in the world
| Types of oils | A country |
| Azhgonovoe | India |
| Anise | Bulgaria, Poland, USA |
| Orange | Jamaica |
| Star anise | Vietnam |
| Basil | Brazil, Italy |
| Bergamot | Italy |
| Vetiver | Haiti, India, Indonesia, Congo |
| Geranium | Italy, Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria, Reunion |
| Spruce | Poland |
| Ylang-ylang | Madagascar, Reunion |
| Kanangovo | Indonesia |
| Cardamom | Guatemala, Ceylon |
| Kedrovoe | USA |
| Coriander | Poland, Russia |
| Cinnamon | Ceylon |
| Kubebovoe | Vietnam |
| Lavandin | Bulgaria, Ukraine |
| Lavender | Argentina, Bulgaria, Ukraine, Yugoslavia |
| Lemongrass | Argentina, India, Congo, Mexico, Honduras |
| Limettnoye | Jamaica |
| Nail oil tree | Zanzibar, Madagascar |
| Parsley oil | Poland |
| Wormwood oil | USA |
| Thyme oil | Spain, Portugal |
| Mirtovoe | Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria |
| Juniper | Poland |
| Carrot | Poland |
| Mint | Bulgaria, Spain, Portugal, Italy, China, Poland, Russia, USA, Ukraine, Yugoslavia, Japan |
| Nerolivoye | Haiti, Italy, Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria |
| Patchoulia | India, Indonesia (raw materials are also exported) |
| Rosemary | Spain, Portugal, Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria |
| Pink | Bulgaria, India, Italy, Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria, Turkey |
| Sandalwood | Haiti, Indonesia (raw materials are exported), India |
| Caraway | Poland |
| Fennel | Argentina, Yugoslavia |
| Coniferous | USA |
| Citronella | Argentina, Vietnam, Guatemala, India, Indonesia, China, Mexico, Honduras, Ceylon |
| Citrus | Brazil, Vietnam, Guinea, USA |
| Sage | Poland, Yugoslavia |
| Eucalyptus | Argentina, Brazil, India, Spain, Portugal, Congo, Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria |
Japan produces more than 200 tons of essential oils (mint, citrus, geranium, patchouli, rose, vetiver), the country is a major importer, in Sri Lanka - up to 100 tons, in Vietnam they produce a large volume of citronella, star anise, cube essential oils. In Europe, the largest producer is Spain, producing up to 1,500 tons of essential oils annually (lavender, eucalyptus, rosemary and thyme). France receives mainly lavender and santhal oils in a volume of about 1000 tons. Bulgaria is recognized as producing the best rose and dill oils in the world. Plantations of essential oil plants are located in all parts of the world (Table 2). The crisis phenomena of recent years in the global economy, rising prices for land and energy resources have led to an increase in the price of essential oils, the production of which has become unprofitable, and as a result, production in a number of countries has been discontinued.
Table 2 - Distribution of essential oil plantations in the world
| Continents and countries | Ethereal plantations |
| Australia | kayaput, nayoli, tea tree |
| Austria | fur tree, pine tree |
| America | cedar |
| Balkans | beans, blue chamomile |
| Bulgaria | rose |
| Brazil | naioli, rosewood |
| Eastern India | sandalwood |
| Guatemala | coriander |
| Guinea | neroli |
| Greece | cypress |
| India | limette, black cumin, incense, ylang-ylang |
| Spain | anise, eucalyptus, rosemary, thyme |
| Italy | bergamot, grapefruit, mandarin, oranges, lemon |
| China | lemongrass, mint |
| Madagascar | carnation |
| Morocco | Moroccan chamomile, myrtle, verbena |
| Nepal | palmarosa |
| Paraguay | petite grain |
| Porta Rico | vetiver |
| Singapore | patchouli |
| Somalia | myrrh |
| France | fennel, jasmine, lavender, marjoram, oregano |
| Czech | hyssop |
| Sri Lanka | ginger, cinnamon |
| Countries of the former Yugoslavia | valerian, sage, juniper |
| Java | citronella, lemon balm, nutmeg |
Table 3. Physico-chemical properties of some types of essential oils
|
Name of essential oil |
Yield, % of raw material |
Main Components |
|
Anise |
Anethole (80-90%), methyl chavicol (up to 10%) |
|
|
Basil |
Eugenol (52-82%), ocimene (10-16%), linalool (10-16%), cadinenes (10-12%) |
|
|
Bergamot |
Linalyl acetate (32-44%), limonene (18-30%), linalool (12-15%), bergapten (5-6%) |
|
|
Gvozdichnoye |
Eugenol (85-96%), eugenol acetate (2-3%) |
|
|
Geranium |
Citronellol (38-46%), linalool (10-12%), geraniol (15-18%), menthoni isomentone (15-18%) |
|
|
Coriander |
Linalool (65%), linalyl acetate, pinene, borneol, terpinene, myrcene, decanal |
|
|
Lavender |
Linalyl acetate (30-56%), linalool (10-20%), geraniol, caryophyllene, lavandulol |
|
|
Lemon |
Limonene (up to 90%), citral (3-5%) |
|
|
Menthol (-50%), menthone (20-25%), menthyl acetate (4-10%), cineole (~ 6%) |
||
|
Citronellol (30-35%), geraniol (1-5%), phenylethyl alcohol (40-50%) |
||
|
Santal |
Santalol(~90%), its acetate(~2%) |
|
|
Fennel |
Anethole (~60%), fenchone, limonene, methyl chavicol |
|
|
Sage |
Linalyl acetate (up to 75%), linalool (up to 20%), |
Materials used from the site http://vershen.ru/info/mirovoe_proizvodstvo_efirnyh_masel.html
Essential oils are popular cosmetics for skin and hair care. The range of beneficial properties of esters is amazing: cleansing, regenerating, whitening, moisturizing - you can’t find anything. Traditionally, they are used for aromatherapy and wraps, as components of masks, massage products, for washing and for steam baths. Cosmetologists note that what we are accustomed to calling essential oils actually means organic oil-like substances that easily evaporate at room temperature and leave no traces. Their distinctive characteristic is the absence of fats in the chemical composition; the source is exclusively vegetable raw materials.
The cost of a bottle can vary from several tens to thousands of rubles. An important role in the pricing process is played by the method of extracting the extract - pressing, distillation, enfleurage, etc. Experts suggest how to choose the best essential oil among the variety - here's what you should consider before purchasing:
- Contraindications. Essential oils are essences. Such high concentrations do not occur in nature. Cosmetologists and trichologists warn that esters should be used with caution. It is preferable to first consult a specialist who would tell you in detail about the individual characteristics of your skin and help you choose the best essential oil, taking into account contraindications (damage to the skin, a number of diseases, intolerance to components). To prevent an allergic reaction, apply the ether to your wrist before use. If after five minus the itching and redness have not stopped, opt for another extract.
- Mixing. Esters are usually not used in their pure form. Mixing with base oils is a must. An acceptable dosage is from two to seven drops per 15 g of base. As an exception, essential oils are used locally in the treatment of acne. However, not all extracts are suitable for this. Remember that the vegetable oils in the formulation must also meet the requirements of your skin type.
- Variety. The division of essential oils according to their effect on the skin is very arbitrary, since each ester can have several effects simultaneously. The degree of effectiveness depends on the skin type, its condition and age. Among the most popular extracts on the cosmetology market are extracts of jasmine, neroli, pine, fir, cedar, juniper, eucalyptus, bergamot, cloves, patchouli, cinnamon, mandarin and sage.
- characteristics of the company (certification, composition, assortment);
- cost of production (price-quality ratio);
- user reviews;
- recommendations from experts (cosmetologists, trichologists).
Best Budget Essential Oil Manufacturers
3 Oleos
Wide range of esters. Natural composition
Country Russia
Rating (2019): 4.8
The Russian representative is the Oleos company. The company produces various oils: edible, cosmetic and essential. All of them are distinguished by high quality and natural composition. Over the past ten years, the brand has been producing esters that are in wide demand among consumers. Reviews mention pleasant scents, durability and affordable price.
The brand cooperates with leading raw material suppliers around the world. Multifunctional extracts are recommended by experts to normalize the functioning of the nervous system, improve facial skin and hair condition. Buyers note positive changes with regular use of essential oils. A rich assortment allows you to easily purchase both the most popular esters and less popular ones (bey, verbena, palmarosa, petitgrain, ravintsar, etc.).
2 Aspera
"Aspera" is a company founded in 2006, focusing on the production of cosmetic, food and essential oils. The peculiarity of the brand is its 100% natural composition, developed in accordance with the recommendations of ethnobotanists. Plants that become the source of raw materials for future products are grown in 30 countries around the world. Company representatives exercise careful control at all stages of ester production, from sowing and harvesting to delivery to pharmacy chains in Russia and the CIS countries. The company is a member of the international federation for trade in essential oils and flavors IFEAT.
Buyers indicate a wide range and low cost as the main advantages of the company. In their reviews, users note the high effectiveness of essential oils of this brand. For example, thyme extract used to activate hair growth and added to shampoo when washing actually helps accelerate hair growth by awakening dormant hair follicles. Other esters of the brand, including those beneficial for facial skin, also received a large number of positive ratings.
The leading factor in choosing an essential oil for the face is skin type.
- Holders dry skin Essential oils of chamomile and sandalwood are suitable to stimulate the production of subcutaneous fat, lemon and rosemary - to improve blood circulation, neroli and lavender - to accelerate cell renewal, jasmine - for high-quality hydration.
- Cope with oily epidermis The following essential oils will help: tea tree - for cleansing, grapefruit and bergamot - for narrowing pores, juniper - for a lifting effect.
- Cleans better than others normal skin esters of orange and rose; for toning, geranium essential oil is preferable; extracts of jasmine and tea tree can boast anti-aging effects.
- Problematic dermis Peppermint ester is shown as an antibacterial agent for acne ripening, lavender - to fight scars and acne spots, ylang-ylang - to smooth the skin, tangerine - for a disinfectant effect.
Essential oils that have a beneficial effect on hair include:
- For hair growth - fir, cinnamon, lemon balm, cloves;
- For volume – cypress, cedar, rosewood, thyme;
- Against hair loss – pine, eucalyptus;
- To moisturize dry hair – jasmine, sandalwood, ylang-ylang;
- Anti-greasy - grapefruit, geranium, juniper.
1 Mirrolla
Best price. Large volume (25 ml)
Country Russia
Rating (2019): 4.9
"Mirrolla" is a domestic research and production company that develops and promotes natural cosmetics and dietary supplements. The company has been operating since 2004. The range includes more than 300 products that increase the quality of life and improve health. The manufacturer’s specialty is rare herbs grown on its own plantations without the use of chemicals, so the raw materials for future products remain environmentally friendly. As the company assures, even the collection of herbs is carried out in full accordance with the calendar of greatest benefit. Control over recipes is carried out in the company’s laboratory, where scientific research is constantly being conducted to create new, even more effective products. Modern equipment and international quality standards are a couple more advantages for the brand.
A prominent place in the catalog is occupied by essential oils for the face and hair, available in bottles of 10 and 25 ml. Reviews note that the esters of this brand have a persistent aroma that allows you to enjoy a pleasant atmosphere for hours. Users are also pleased with the variety of products - the range includes the most popular citrus, spicy, floral, pine and exotic essential oils.
The best manufacturers of essential oils: price-quality
4 Elfarma
Best design. Profitable price
Country Russia
Rating (2019): 4.8
"Elpharma" is a Russian manufacturer of pharmaceutical cosmetics, cosmetic and essential oils, beekeeping products, etc. A characteristic feature of the company's entire product range is high quality. The brand, founded in 2001, offers natural face, body and hair care products that are free of toxic chemicals. Raw materials are supplied from the UK and other European countries.
User reviews often mention the attractive design - each package is decorated with a picturesque landscape. Buyers also like the affordable pricing policy. Among the advantages, it is impossible not to mention the variety of aromas of essential oils, durability and 100% natural composition.
3 Lecus
International quality standards. Unobtrusive scents
Country Russia
Rating (2019): 4.8
Lecus is a Russian company engaged in the production of natural and medicinal cosmetics, cosmetic and essential oils, and bath cosmetics. A distinctive characteristic is the production of products that meet all international quality standards, including those approved by the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation. The brand is one of the three best domestic representatives. Environmentally friendly raw materials undergo mandatory certification in Europe. The company cooperates only with reputable foreign suppliers.
The brand takes part in annual exhibitions, receiving recognition, diplomas and awards year after year. In reviews, users indicate bright modern design, a rich variety of essential oils, high durability and competitive cost among the advantages. The scents are natural and unobtrusive, which allows them to be used both for the purpose of healing hair and skin, and for filling the room with pleasant notes, taking a bath and performing a massage.
2 Botanika
The most popular. User selection
Country Russia
Rating (2019): 4.9
"Botanika" is a manufacturer of cosmetic and essential oils that appeared on the domestic market about 10 years ago. Currently, the company is a recognized leader: a member of the Russian Perfume and Cosmetic Association and the International Federation of Trade in Essential Oils, winner of the exhibition (2014) in the category of the best massage oils. In reviews, the neutral design is called very relevant, without distracting attention from the key characteristics.
The back of the package provides information about the use of a specific ester, its beneficial properties and compatibility with other oils. The manufacturer provides the product with information about the composition, contraindications, storage conditions and expiration dates. Inside the box you will find a bottle, instructions, recipes and even recommended proportions for mixing the extract with the base for preparing masks for the face and hair.
1 Bergland-Pharma
The best value for money. Environmentally friendly raw materials
Country: Germany
Rating (2019): 4.9
Founded a quarter of a century ago, the Bergland company set the goal of preserving the natural purity of the material and creating unique parapharmaceutical and cosmetic oils. Actually, the goal has been achieved. Now the brand is known all over the world, and pharmacies and medical institutions in Germany, Austria, Hungary, the Czech Republic and other European countries unanimously prefer the brand’s products. Their essential oils have a positive effect both locally and on the entire body as a whole, providing an anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and antibacterial effect on the skin of the face and hair.
Esters are produced from environmentally friendly raw materials, which is confirmed by Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) and International Organization for Standardization (ISO) certificates. The company, on its own initiative, regularly undergoes testing for compliance with the standard of the Federation of German Cosmetics Manufacturers and Distributors (BDIH), the so-called first “natural” standard. Many products from the brand’s catalog are marked with the “Cosmos Organic” and “Cosmos Natural” marks, indicating the naturalness of the products. “It’s hard to imagine a better quality guarantor!” - says expert reviews.
The best producers of essential oils: premium segment
Luxury essential oil companies stand out from other companies due to their high cost, which is fully compensated by first-class quality, 100% natural composition and careful control over the production of extracts. These brands are attentive to the characteristics of the skin, which has a positive effect on the effectiveness of the esters.
3 IRIS
The best of the domestic ones. Special series of esters for problem skin
Country Russia
Rating (2019): 4.8
Essential oils of the “Iris” brand have been produced by the aromatherapy center for more than 20 years. The company is named after its leading employee, Dr. Irisova. High-quality raw materials – that’s what the manufacturer relies on. The components of the esters are delivered directly from the plantations: anise from Spain, oranges from Brazil, calamus berries from Nepal, etc. The extracts are isolated using a special gentle technology, retaining maximum beneficial properties. The composition of the esters is completely natural.
Experts call the company's products exclusive due to the content of a biologically active collection, including enzymes and antioxidants, vitamins and other elements. With their help, the body has an immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory and antiviral, as well as antimicrobial effect. The oils of this brand are in wide demand, judging by the reviews, in the treatment of acne. The manufacturer has developed special series “Anti-acne” and “Post-acne” to effectively relieve inflammation, smooth the skin, eliminate redness and prevent the formation of new pimples.
2 STYX
First class quality. Effective face and hair care
Country: Austria
Rating (2019): 4.8
Styx is an Austrian company of natural essential oils and cosmetics that appeared on the trading scene at the beginning of the 20th century. Having invested in the production of oils, the founder of the company of the same name, Wolfgang Stix, was awarded a number of privileges from raw material suppliers around the world. The brand's privileges continue to this day, which allows the brand to purchase raw materials of exclusively first-class quality, while the cost of the original product remains at an acceptable level.
All drugs are based on ancient recipes and do not involve the inclusion of chemical synthesis products. Technologies for production and processing of raw materials fully comply with international standards. The central place in the catalog is occupied by base and essential oils. The assortment includes cosmetics based on them for the face and body, hair care products, massage and perfume preparations. Reviews from users and experts say that the company’s products have no analogues in the world - safe, fragrant, durable, effective.
1 Karel Hadek
Better production control. Suitable for aging and sensitive skin
Country: Czech Republic
Rating (2019): 4.9
Karel Hadek is the best brand of professional aromacosmetics in the Czech Republic, as well as a leader in the markets of Japan, Russia, China and Europe. The company is named after the founding scientist who developed over 300 drug formulations and his own production technologies. The company has been operating since 1983, and has now acquired a whole army of fans. All aromatherapy cosmetics of the brand are free of antioxidants, dyes, fragrances and preservatives. All raw materials purchased from global markets undergo laboratory testing, and in some cases even double testing.
The products are in wide demand in professional environments - beauty salons, rehabilitation centers, medical institutions, etc. Natural essential oils of the brand are also suitable for home use. Reviews write especially flatteringly about esters as products for problematic, aging and sensitive skin of the face and body. In addition, extracts have a positive effect on hair. The assortment is represented by all sorts of scents, the cost of which exceeds most of its analogues, however, as experts assure, it is fully justified by its first-class quality.
Every day I live in Thailand, I become more and more immersed in the world of natural oils, communicating with manufacturers, local aromatherapists, reading specialized resources and articles with research. And the more I delve into the question, the more I admire these natural miracles - powerful and effective, many of which the modern industrial cosmetic industry does not use precisely because of their activity, the individuality of perception by the skin of each person, short shelf life and high cost. In my posts, I am not going to encourage anyone to rush to make “homemade creams”)), but I want to delve a little into the vast topic of natural oils and, at the level that is accessible to me, talk about some interesting features of their use. Despite the fact that they have written about oils more than once on Cosmetist (including me), I wanted to put together the information that I know (perhaps even more for myself)) I would be glad if this is useful to someone too.
I'll start with simple definitions.
What are essential oils
These are aromatic, volatile and concentrated liquid substances that are obtained from various parts of plants (cold pressing, filtration, distillation). With rare exceptions, Essential oils should not be used on the skin in their pure form..These substances are called “oils” rather arbitrarily, because... are not actually ordinary fatty oils.
Most esters have antiseptic properties to one degree or another. By the way, in Thailand, tools for manicure and pedicure are most often disinfected with essential oils, rather than with modern methods.
The most popular essential oils are: lavender, tea tree, ginger, mint, sweet orange, lemon, ylang-ylang.
What are base vegetable oils
They are also called bases or transport oils. These are fatty oils, most often obtained by pressing from plant seeds (nuts). Most base oils can be used on skin and hair in its pure form and these oils are used to dissolve esters in them.Roughly speaking, base oils can be refined or unrefined. Refining - this is oil purification from impurities. It is impossible to say for sure which oil will be best for you. Unrefined is considered more biologically active (and therefore beneficial for the skin), while refined usually has a more pleasant texture and is more often used by cosmetic giants, since it is more suitable for sensitive skin (and the skin of children), with it there is less risk of developing irritation. However, I have also heard the opinion that refined has absolutely the same properties as unrefined, it’s just that the former is purer. Unrefined oils usually have a more pronounced aroma and color, while refined oils have virtually no odor.
Based on their consistency, base oils are divided into liquid and butter. Butters are oils that are solid at room temperature, for example, cocoa and mango; liquid oils are almond, argan, grape seed and the like.
The most popular base oils are: olive, jojoba, shea butter, coconut, avocado, almond, argan, apricot kernel oil, castor.
What are absolutes (absolutes) and specifics
Concrete are even more concentrated than esters, viscous substances obtained from plants by extraction. After the actual extraction, a concrete (consisting of essential oil, fats and waxy substances) is obtained, which is shaken in alcohol to obtain an absolute. Absolutes are also obtained by the method of enfleurage (this is exactly the method in which, if you remember, the main character of Perfumer was perverted)).The most expensive oils are created in the form of absolutes and their aroma is even more powerful than that of esters. Absolutes are rarely used in aromatherapy, much more often in expensive perfumes. And only when diluted min. up to 20% concentration they can be used as essential oils.
The most popular absolutes are: roses, frangipani, vanilla, jasmine, sandalwood, neroli, cocoa.
Negative (as well as positive) skin reactions to all natural oils individual and depend on a huge number of factors (for example, the region and conditions of growth of the material, the quality of cleaning, the diseases you have, the correct use of the oil, skin type, reactivity, etc.), therefore, the perception of any oil is checked, in principle, only by experience. That is, no one can predict exactly how your skin will behave. Some people in ecstasy completely switch to natural oils in their care, others, having tried one and getting clogged pores, give them up forever. The truth, as always, is in the middle))
Where to buy oils and how to choose real ones
1. Many people still do not know that almost all essential oils distributed through regular pharmacies are not suitable for aromatherapy and cosmetic use, and calculated for household use only(aromatization of premises, clothing, linen). You shouldn’t complain about their ineffectiveness and expect any therapeutic properties from them other than a pleasant smell. Synthetic oils (which are what they usually sell in pharmacies) have a completely different chemical composition than natural ones.2. High-quality natural essential oils (and some basic ones) are expensive, and absolutes are incredibly expensive, this is an axiom. A rare exception is the oils of some citrus fruits (for example, lemon), but pure rose essential oil costs 100 rubles. in any case, it doesn’t happen (for example, a good price is $20 for 1 ml of Damask rose). The process of producing esters is complex, the raw materials are expensive, and the required quantity is huge.
3. If you see a line of essential oils on sale that are positioned as natural, but all cost the same, you are looking at synthetics or a fake (counterfeits are a terribly interesting separate topic). Prices for oils cannot be the same for the simple reason that the plants from which the oils are made have very different prices. Sweet orange and neroli esters will cost like heaven and earth.
4. It is best to buy from well-known and trusted manufacturers who specialize specifically in oils and aromatherapy.
5. Pure natural essential oil should be sold in a dark glass bottle with a tight stopper (without a stopper it will evaporate, in transparent glass it will be destroyed). The bottle should have the Latin name of the plant from which the oil is made.
6. Sunlight is destructive to all oils (both base and essential), so in the store, pay attention to the place where the oil stood. If this is a display case that has been exposed to sunlight, there is no point in using this oil.
One of the few oils that remains stable in a light bottle is coconut oil. But, of course, it cannot be stored in a place where the sun hits. In general, the topic of storing oils is very extensive; be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions, if there are any, because some essential and base oils are best stored in the refrigerator to increase shelf life.
7. Essential oils smell good. The aroma can be sharp, it can be unusual, but it cannot be brightly chemical, unnatural and disgusting. Usually the ability to determine the quality of an ether by smell comes with experience, so see the points above)
General features of the use of esters.
1. Contrary to popular belief, add ethereal oils for finished cosmetics industrial production considered not very desirable. Real essential oil is the most active component and can react with the chemistry in the formula in such a way that you get an allergy. In addition, mixtures with essential oils cannot be stored in plastic (unless, of course, it is special plastic). To dissolve esters it is best to use base oils and creams, which are often sold by the same companies that sell essential oils.2. Never exceed the dosage of esters indicated in recipes, especially if you are new to this matter, it is simply dangerous. I think no one wants to get dermatitis?)
3. Many essential oils are contraindicated for epileptics. There are other restrictions on diseases; there is a lot of information on this topic on the Internet. Esters are used with caution in pregnant women; some manufacturers prohibit them altogether, just in case) There are esters that cause photosensitivity (i.e., skin sensitivity to the sun), so be sure to read the instructions before use.
4. Do not use essential oils inside without a doctor's prescription. Despite the scientifically proven effectiveness of esters in the treatment of many diseases, doing amateur activities, you can cause essential harm to your body.
5. Before using any pure essential oil, it is necessary to conduct a sensitivity test. To do this, 1 drop of ether is diluted in 5 ml of base oil and applied to the bend of the elbow or behind the ear. If there is no irritation within 12 hours, the oil can be safely used for care.
6. There are essential oils that are recognized as unsafe and, in addition to their medicinal properties, have side effects. Esters such as cinnamon, sage, and verbena are not recommended for use without the supervision of an experienced aromatherapist or the recommendation of a doctor. In general, ideally, to get the maximum effect from any essential oil, you need to consult a specialist.
7. Essential oils often require a little getting used to, especially if you have previously constantly used cosmetics with synthetic fragrances. But when you get used to the ethers, artificial fragrances seem like a nightmare))
In conclusion, I want to say that now everyone is speculating on the properties of oils; some oils are even credited with such properties as curing cancer! The hair on your head moves if you imagine that there are people who trust something like this ((Natural and effective is not at all synonymous with safe.
I re-read the text above and realized that after all this it is not entirely clear why use natural oils at all when you can buy care in the store?)) The main reason, of course, is that the effectiveness of natural oils in many aspects superior to finished industrial cosmetics, in the absence of side effects and unnecessary useless, or even simply harmful, impurities. Watching how your skin changes with regular use of natural oils is a great pleasure.
And it’s actually not at all difficult to take precautions. But, as they said in the movie The Fifth Element, each weapon has its own instructions.
Why all this trouble? (Or mineral hydrocarbons vs vegetable oils)
In conclusion, I want to quote one big and very interesting one (from a source I trust) about the difference in the use of natural vegetable oils and mineral oils (derived from petroleum):"What are the arguments against using inexpensive mineral hydrocarbons in cosmetic products instead of sensitive vegetable oils, if the former are produced even in our bodies?
To answer this question, consider the characteristics of triglycerides obtained from vegetable oils and used in the production of skin care products:
- Vegetable oils are skin related substances. They are integrated into the triglyceride balance of the skin and can even be processed by it;
- Vegetable oils contain physiological acids, for example, palmitic (found in the skin) and unsaturated omega-6 and, probably, omega-3 acids. Linoleic acid is built into ceramide I and therefore enhances barrier function. From linoleic, alpha and gamma linoleic acids in the skin anti-inflammatory substances are produced.
- Due to their lipid nature, plant triglycerides have a softening effect on the skin. Lipids reduce transepidermal fluid loss (TEL), which is quite good, especially in winter when indoor humidity is very low."
"Mineral oils (my note: called “mineral oil” or “paraffinum liquidum” in cosmetics) do not contribute to the regeneration of damaged skin barrier..."
"... this explains why those who use products with mineral oils have dry skin. Even if mineral oils form tiny particles in the skin, they will not be absorbed by the epidermis like vegetable oils. The relatively rapid penetration of plant triglycerides is due to their enzymatic breakdown into glycerol and fatty acids, which means that hydrocarbons from mineral oils accumulate in the surface layers of the skin, where they can persist much longer than plant triglycerides. The feeling of smooth skin will last longer, which can certainly be considered an advantage in terms of application and feel. However, this affects the natural balance of the skin and its ability to regenerate. "
" Residues of hydrocarbons and paraffin-based silicones enter the body through inhalation or through the skin. There they not recycled, but accumulate in fatty tissues or are released in an unchanged state during life. Data on these processes are heterogeneous."
"From the point of view of modern corneotherapy, it is recommended to use cosmetics with natural oils and lipids, even if they feel inferior to petrochemical products. However, the selection of vegetable oils should be done based on skin analysis"
In the next post (I hope you get at least something interesting from this)), I will talk about the vegetable oils that I use in my everyday life and which of their properties I personally like. Something like an oil cosmetic bag.
P.S. Virgos, in Russia I only knew about good olive oil) I was not interested in the topic of cosmetic use of oils while living there, so I simply cannot recommend specific manufacturers. If you have oils for sale, be guided by the signs that I wrote about and the chance that you will buy something wrong will be very small.
