Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts that give skincare a fresh scent and antioxidant benefits. They work best in small, carefully formulated amounts, never applied undiluted to the skin.
Essential oils vs plant oils
Essential oils, such as bergamot or grapefruit, are highly concentrated aromatic extracts used in tiny amounts. Plant oils, such as sunflower or safflower oil, are nourishing oils rich in fatty acids that help the skin hold on to moisture. Good formulas often combine both.
Oils we use in ANAAKA skincare
Bergamot essential oil
Fresh and citrusy, bergamot is traditionally valued for its purifying properties, a good fit for cleansers. You'll find it in the Foaming Cleanser.
Grapefruit essential oil
Grapefruit oil brings a bright, invigorating scent and suits cleansers for oily or combination skin, common in Malaysia's humid climate. It is also part of the Foaming Cleanser.
Sunflower oil
Rich in vitamin E and linoleic acid, sunflower oil supports the skin's moisture barrier. It is one of the ingredients in the Foaming Cleanser.
Safflower oil
Light and non-comedogenic, safflower oil is unlikely to clog pores. It is one of the ingredients in the Overnight Revitalizer.
How to use essential oils safely
- Never apply them undiluted. Pure essential oils can irritate the skin.
- Be careful with citrus oils in the sun. Some citrus oils, including bergamot, can make skin more sensitive to sunlight in leave-on products. Rinse-off cleansers carry much less risk, and with Malaysia's strong UV, daily SPF is essential anyway.
- Patch-test if your skin is sensitive. Apply a little product to your inner arm and wait 24 hours.
Frequently asked questions
Are essential oils good for the skin?
In small, well-formulated amounts they add freshness and antioxidant benefits. Applied undiluted, they can cause irritation.
Are essential oils halal?
Plant-based essential oils are generally permissible, but the finished product should be halal-certified. ANAAKA skincare is halal-certified by IIDC GmbH to MS 2200-1.
Which ANAAKA products contain essential oils?
The Foaming Cleanser contains bergamot and grapefruit essential oils.
