Lavender, the perfect skin-pamperer

A small, aromatic bush, lavender originated in Persia, but today grows naturally in southern Europe, as it prefers dry, sunny climates. Several varieties of lavender exist, the most common being French lavender, lavandin, lavender aspic and officinal lavender. Available in a number of forms, the sweet-smelling essential oil obtained by distilling the petals of French lavender is the most popular and most convenient way of using the flower.

Officinal lavender (or true lavender) essential oil regulates the central nervous system. The result is relaxed, calm facial features. It's great for mature skin, as well as anyone feeling stressed out. Its regenerative properties combat sagging skin, thanks to its toning and firming action. Take advantage of lavender's calming properties at night and it will help you have a good night's sleep; and we all know the wonders that that can do for both body and mind.

Another form of lavender, lavandin regulates sebum production, particularly on the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin), which can look greasy. To keep your complexion looking clean and matte, you can whip up a homemade face mask by blending a tablespoon of oatmeal with drop of lavender essential oil. Add enough mineral water to form a smooth paste, then leave the formulation on for a couple of minutes and rinse off. And kiss goodbye to both dead skin cells and oily skin.

Lavender aspic, a wild variant, can be used for healing acute skin problems, such as nasty insect bites or stings during summer. Its healing action is boosted when it's blended with camphor and is particularly useful for calming burns. Lavandin can also be used to soothe skin and promote healing, as it is an active antibiotic and is useful for treating acne and even burns. by blending a tablespoon of oatmeal with drop of lavender essential oil. Add enough mineral water to form a smooth paste, then leave the formulation on for a couple of minutes and rinse off. And kiss goodbye to both dead skin cells and oily skin. Lavender, a powerful healer Lavender aspic, a wild variant, can be used for healing acute skin problems, such as nasty insect bites or stings during summer. Its healing action is boosted when it's blended with camphor and is particularly useful for calming burns. Lavandin can also be used to soothe skin and promote healing, as it is an active antibiotic and is useful for treating acne and even burns.