Frankincense Essential Oil for Your Skin: Uses and Benefits

If you're curious about natural skincare, essential oils, or simply want to give your daily routine a boost, you may have come across frankincense oil. With a long history of spiritual and medicinal use, frankincense is a skin-loving powerhouse that’s stood the test of time.

But what is frankincense oil good for, and is it really as effective as people claim? In this guide, we’ll explore its benefits for your skin, how to use it safely, and answer some of the most frequently asked questions.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new skincare treatment, especially if you have underlying health conditions or allergies.

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Frankincense oil is derived from the resin of the Boswellia tree, mainly Boswellia sacra, Boswellia carterii, and Boswellia serrata. These trees are native to parts of Africa and the Middle East and produce a sap that hardens into a gum-like resin. When steam-distilled, this resin transforms into a rich, earthy oil known for its calming aroma and a host of wellness benefits.

The term "frankincense" comes from the Old French "franc encens," meaning “high-quality incense.” It has been used for thousands of years in religious rituals, traditional medicine, and beauty practices. The resin itself is sometimes called olibanum, so if you’ve seen products listing olibanum oil as an ingredient, you’re still in the world of frankincense.

Today, frankincense aromatherapy oil is a popular choice among essential oil lovers due to its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and rejuvenating properties.

Frankincense oil is widely praised for its skincare benefits. It’s especially beneficial for mature, dry, or sensitive skin, thanks to its soothing nature and ability to promote the appearance of smooth, healthy-looking skin. Here are some key ways frankincense oil supports your skin:

Whether you're looking to address signs of ageing, improve skin tone, or soothe problem areas, this natural oil offers a variety of skin-friendly benefits. Let’s take a closer look at how frankincense oil can help your skin look and feel its best:

One of the most popular uses of frankincense essential oil is for its anti-ageing benefits. Rich in antioxidants and known for promoting cell regeneration, it helps protect your skin against the effects of time and environmental stressors.

When used in diluted form, frankincense oil can support firmer, more elastic skin and help soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Its ability to encourage skin renewal makes it a favourite addition to natural skincare routines aimed at graceful ageing.

Frankincense is naturally anti-inflammatory, meaning it can help soothe irritated or reactive skin. Whether your skin is struggling with flare-ups, sensitivity, or exposure to the elements, this oil may offer some welcome relief.

Used properly, frankincense oil can reduce redness, support comfort, and create a more even-toned appearance. Its gentle nature makes it especially beneficial for those with sensitive or easily unsettled complexions.

Frankincense essential oil is often included in blends designed to improve the appearance of scars or blemishes. Thanks to its regenerative properties, it may help the skin recover more effectively after minor damage.

By promoting the development of healthy new tissue, frankincense oil supports healing and can assist in fading the marks left by spots or small cuts. This makes it a useful oil for anyone looking to improve overall skin clarity and texture.

If your skin is prone to breakouts or uneven oil production, frankincense oil may offer a more natural solution. Its astringent and antibacterial properties can help purify the skin without stripping it, supporting a clearer and more balanced complexion.

Used regularly (and always diluted), frankincense may help prevent future blemishes, calm active spots, and reduce the visibility of enlarged pores. Its calming influence also helps with the inflammation that often accompanies acne-prone skin.

Frankincense oil also has moisturising and nourishing effects, making it suitable for dry or tired-looking skin. By supporting the skin's natural barrier and preventing moisture loss, it helps restore softness and hydration.

When blended with a carrier oil or added to your favourite cream, frankincense can comfort dry, flaky areas and leave your skin feeling more supple and replenished over time. It’s particularly beneficial during colder months or for skin that’s regularly exposed to air-conditioning or harsh weather.

Using frankincense oil is fairly straightforward, but it’s important to do so safely and thoughtfully.

It’s best not to use frankincense oil without diluting. Even pure organic frankincense oil UK sellers recommend always diluting essential oils before use.

This is a popular technique in aromatherapy, said to allow for rapid absorption and grounding effects. It’s especially soothing before bed.

You can apply diluted frankincense oil to your face, neck, and décolletage for skincare, or the soles of your feet and pulse points for relaxation.

While some alternative wellness enthusiasts believe frankincense in the belly button promotes gut healing or emotional balance, there is limited scientific evidence for this practice.

Frankincense boswellia supplements are often used for their anti-inflammatory effects, which can be helpful in treating arthritis. While promising, always speak with a health professional before trying a supplement.

While frankincense has been used internally in some traditional systems, not all oils are food-grade. Unless labelled edible or food-safe, it’s not advisable to put it in your mouth.

Frankincense oil can go off. Keep your oil in a cool, dark place with the lid tightly closed. If it smells off or changes colour, it’s best to replace it.

Pure, certified organic frankincense oil requires careful harvesting from rare trees. Sustainability and distillation also raise costs.

If you’re fascinated by the benefits of frankincense oil, why not turn your interest into a skill? At Centre of Excellence, we offer an Aromatherapy Diploma Course that explores different essential oils, blending techniques, safety precautions, and how to apply your knowledge at home or professionally. As a special offer, you can access the Aromatherapy Diploma Course for just £29!