Frankincense in Skincare: Historical Uses and Modern Benefits
Wiki Article
Frankincense in Skincare: Historical Uses and Modern Benefits
Abstract
Frankincense comes from the resin of Boswellia trees and has been valued for thousands of years in the Middle East for its healing, spiritual, and beauty benefits. Today, research is backing up many of these traditional uses, especially in skincare. This article looks at the role frankincense has played in beauty practices throughout history and examines recent studies that confirm its benefits for skin health.
Historical Significance of Frankincense in Skincare
Origins in the Middle East
Frankincense, often called the King of Resins, mainly comes from Oman, Yemen, and Somalia. Ancient Egyptians and Sumerians wrote about using it in treatments for skin wounds, inflammation, and aging. The frankincense trade was so valuable that it created the Incense Route, linking southern Arabia with Mediterranean markets. Ancient physicians like Avicenna suggested using it for skin infections and revitalization in his influential medical work from 1025 CE.
In traditional beauty rituals:
· Women would grind frankincense into powder for facial masks.
· Oils infused with frankincense were used to prevent wrinkles and shield the skin from harsh desert elements.
· Burning frankincense was a way to naturally purify and scent the skin
Active Compounds and Their Skincare Benefits
Modern studies show that frankincense contains:
· Boswellic acids: These helps reduce inflammation.
· Alpha- and beta-pinene: Known for their antioxidant effects.
· Incensole acetate: This can improve mood and also reduce inflammation.
These compounds suggest various ways frankincense supports skin health.
Modern Clinical Studies: Validating Ancient Wisdom
1. Anti-Inflammatory and Wound Healing Effects
A study in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that Boswellic acids are effective at reducing inflammation, which may help with conditions like eczema and psoriasis. Another study in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science showed that applying frankincense extract can speed up wound healing and make skin more elastic in animal studies.
2. Anti-Aging Properties
Research published in the Journal of Dermatological Treatment indicated that a cream containing frankincense helped minimize fine lines and enhance skin tone and hydration over eight weeks in human participants. It was thought that this effect is linked to increased collagen production and reduced breakdown of collagen due to oxidative stress.
3. Skin Barrier Protection
Recent findings suggest that frankincense can:
· Strengthen the outer skin layer.
· Help keep the right balance of oils.
· Protect against moisture loss, which is key in dry conditions.
This supports the traditional use among Bedouin women, who used frankincense-infused creams and oils to protect their skin.
Incorporation in Modern Skincare
Today, frankincense is found in:
· Halal-certified skincare products in Dubai and the Gulf region.
· Vegan beauty products in the UAE.
· All-natural skincare brands globally
Especially those focused on Middle Eastern botanical traditions. Brands that emphasize organic integrity, like Makhzan Limited, stress the importance of using pure frankincense in their products.
Current formulations include:
· Diluted frankincense essential oil.
· CO₂-extracted frankincense for higher concentrations of beneficial acids.
· Infused oils for everyday use.
Cultural Legacy Meets Science
The use of frankincense in skincare connects ancient practices with modern science. Its long-standing cultural importancefrom rituals to royal beauty treatmentsaligns well with recent research that supports its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. Using frankincense in skincare today not only respects thousands of years of tradition but also brings scientifically proven benefits for various skin issues, especially in dry and polluted environments.
References
Ammon, H.P.T. (2010). Modulation of the Immune System by Boswellia serrata Extracts and Boswellic Acids. Phytomedicine, 17(11), 862-867.
Ali, N. et al. (2022). Frankincense Resin Extracts in Skin Barrier Restoration: A Review of Recent Advances. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 21(4), 1002-1012.
Avicenna. (1025 CE). The Canon of Medicine.
Brewer, D.J. (2011). The Encyclopedia of Ancient Egypt. Facts On File, Inc.
Moussaieff, A. et al. (2008). Boswellia resin: from religious ceremonies to medical uses; a review of in-vitro, in-vivo and clinical trials. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 117(2), 111-121.
Tafazoli, M. et al. (2019). Effects of Topical Frankincense Extract on Facial Skin Aging: A Randomized Clinical Trial. Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 30(7), 715-721.
Woollard, A.C., Tatham, K.C., & Barker, S.A. (2010). The effects of essential oils on the process of wound healing: a review of the current evidence. International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 32(5), 376-382.