Aromatherapy uses scents — often in the form of essential oils — to change your mood and improve your well-being. You can now find aromatherapy in many personal care products.
Aromatherapy lotions offer a handy way to experience the benefits of aromatherapy while also moisturizing your skin. These lotions combine the advantages of both skincare and scent therapy.
This article explores some of the best aromatherapy lotions available, taking into account ingredients, effectiveness, and what other people are saying about them.
It’s important to remember that aromatherapy’s effects may vary from person to person and that the placebo effect may play a role. Still, many people find aromatherapy helpful and enjoyable.
Understanding aromatherapy and essential oils
What is aromatherapy?
Aromatherapy is the practice of using aromatic plant extracts and essential oils for healing. People have used it for centuries for everything from relaxation to boosting energy.
Essential oils are extracted from plants using processes like distillation or cold pressing. It’s thought that these oils can affect the limbic system, which influences your emotions, behavior, sense of smell, and long-term memory.
Essential oils commonly used in aromatherapy lotions
If you’re looking for the best aromatherapy lotion, you’ll probably see some of these essential oils on the label:
- Lavender: Known for its calming and sleep-promoting properties.
- Eucalyptus: Often used for its invigorating and decongestant properties.
- Spearmint: Provides a refreshing and uplifting scent and is often paired with eucalyptus.
- Chamomile: Another calming oil often used in lotions designed to promote sleep.
- Orange and Ginger: These oils can promote energy and a sense of well-being.
Why use aromatherapy lotions?
Aromatherapy lotions combine the benefits of skincare with the soothing power of scent. What’s not to love?
Stress Relief and Relaxation
Aromatherapy lotions are often used to ease stress and promote relaxation. Some research indicates that lavender can ease stress, anxiety, and depression, but there’s a strong placebo effect at work with aromatherapy. That means that even if the scents aren’t really having a direct chemical effect on your brain, if you believe they’re helping, they probably are.
Aromatherapy lotions are a convenient way to manage stress since you can apply them any time you need a little help.
Improved Sleep Quality
Certain aromatherapy lotions, especially those with lavender or chamomile, can help you get a better night’s sleep, but there are also essential oil blends for sleep without lavender. Those scents are thought to have a calming effect on your nervous system.
Enhanced Mood and Energy
Aromatherapy lotions can also lift your mood and give you a boost of energy, especially if they contain citrus or other invigorating scents. Essential oils such as orange and ginger are known to be energizing.
Skin Moisturization and Nourishment
Aromatherapy lotions moisturize your skin and provide aromatic benefits at the same time. They often contain ingredients like shea butter and vitamin E to hydrate your skin and keep it healthy.
Choosing the right aromatherapy lotion: Key considerations
With so many aromatherapy lotions on the market, how do you find the right one? Here are some things to think about as you shop:
Identifying your needs
What do you want to get out of your aromatherapy lotion? Are you hoping to feel less stressed? Do you need help falling asleep? Or are you looking for something to boost your energy levels?
Think about when you’ll use the lotion. Lavender is a classic choice for evening relaxation, while citrus scents can be invigorating in the morning.
Ingredients and quality
Take a close look at the ingredient list. The best aromatherapy lotions use natural essential oils, not synthetic fragrances. You’ll also want to see moisturizing ingredients like shea butter, aloe vera, or vitamin E.
Keep in mind that the FDA doesn’t regulate essential oils, so there’s no guarantee of purity or quality.
Scent preference
Scent is personal! What smells amazing to one person might not appeal to another. Choose a scent that you genuinely enjoy.
If you’re not sure, try to find sample sizes or read online reviews to get an idea of the scent profile.
Skin sensitivity
Before slathering a new lotion all over your body, do a patch test. Apply a small amount to a discreet area (like your inner arm) and wait 24 hours to see if you have any reaction. This is especially important if you have sensitive skin.
If you notice any redness, itching, or irritation, stop using the lotion and talk to a dermatologist.
Aromatherapy lotions we recommend
Choosing a lotion is a really personal thing. Here are a few of the aromatherapy lotions that people seem to love right now.
Bath and Body Works Aromatherapy Eucalyptus Spearmint Body Lotion
This lotion features the classic combo of eucalyptus and spearmint, which many find helps relieve stress, much like a DIY eucalyptus spearmint massage oil. Check the Bath and Body Works website for customer reviews and ratings.
Aveda Stress Fix Body Lotion
Aveda’s Stress Fix lotion uses a blend of lavender, lavandin, and clary sage to help you feel less stressed out. The unique selling point of this lotion is that the scent is certified organic.
Dr. Teal’s Sleep Body Lotion with Melatonin & Essential Oils
If you’re hoping to improve your sleep, you might like this lotion from Dr. Teal’s. It combines melatonin and lavender to help you drift off to dreamland. Also, this one is a great value!
Other options to consider
There are tons of aromatherapy lotions out there, so don’t feel limited to these few! You might also like Thymes Eucalyptus Body Lotion or anything from Aromatherapy Associates. You’re sure to find something you love!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is aromatherapy lotion good for your skin?
Aromatherapy lotion can be good for your skin, but it depends on the ingredients. The essential oils can offer benefits like reducing inflammation or promoting relaxation. However, always check the ingredient list for potential allergens or irritants. Look for lotions with carrier oils like jojoba or almond oil, which are generally nourishing. If you have sensitive skin, patch test first!
Which soothing lotion is best?
The “best” soothing lotion is subjective, but ingredients like chamomile, lavender, and aloe vera are known for their calming properties. Look for lotions that are fragrance-free (ironically, since we’re talking aromatherapy!) or use natural essential oils sparingly to minimize irritation. Consider your skin type; a richer lotion might be best for dry skin, while a lighter formula might suit oily skin.
What is the best aromatherapy for anxiety?
Lavender is widely considered the go-to aromatherapy scent for anxiety. Other options include chamomile, bergamot, frankincense, and ylang-ylang. Experiment to find what works best for you, as individual responses to scents can vary. Remember that aromatherapy is just one tool and should be used alongside other stress-reduction techniques.
Which is the best body lotion for smell?
Again, “best” is subjective and depends on your preferred scent profile! For a floral scent, rose or jasmine are popular. For a citrusy aroma, try lemon or grapefruit. Earthy scents include sandalwood or cedarwood. When choosing a body lotion for its smell, make sure the scent comes from natural essential oils rather than synthetic fragrances, which can be irritating to the skin.
Closing thoughts
Aromatherapy lotions are a simple and effective way to bring the benefits of aromatherapy into your everyday life. A good lotion can help you de-stress, sleep better, and generally boost your mood.
When you’re choosing an aromatherapy lotion, pay attention to the ingredients. Look for natural oils and avoid anything that might irritate your skin. Of course, you’ll also want to find scents you enjoy!
Don’t be afraid to try a few different lotions to find the perfect one for your needs. What relaxes one person might energize another, so experiment a little.
Finally, if you have any concerns about using essential oils or managing stress, talk with a healthcare professional. They can offer personalized advice and help you find the best solutions for your well-being.