Read on for more about lavender’s amazing relaxing properties, and then try it out for yourself with our method for a calming lavender facial to help you unwind.
Anyone who loves lavender will have experienced the instantly soothing effect of its scent – but did you know that lavender’s relaxing properties are backed by science? A number of studies have demonstrated its calming properties, including one in 2019 which involved 10,000 test subjects and found that inhaling lavender can help people relax in stressful situations.
Studies have also found that lavender can make you calm without having a sedative effect, and it can help you have a better night’s sleep. One study, in 2005, found that the scent of lavender and orange reduced anxiety in dental patients!
So if you’re feeling wired or anxious, you can always call on lavender to help you relax, recentre and regain a sense of calm.
Talking of which, here’s one great option:
DIY lavender facial steam bath
The perfect winter ritual to soothe your skin and your soul, a facial steam bath is quick and simple, but will leave you feeling pampered, with soft and rosy skin.
Steaming the face has many benefits, including opening and cleansing your pores, hydrating your skin, improving your circulation – which can boost your skin’s production of collagen and elastin to help fight wrinkles – and preparing your skin so it soaks up any products you decide to apply afterwards.
Here’s a fragrant facial steam bath recipe for you to try at home. It uses lavender to help you unwind and help to heal your skin, rose, which is hydrating, slightly astringent, and calendula, which is renowned for its skin healing and anti-inflammatory properties.
You’ll need:
Water
½ tbsp dried lavender
½ tbsp dried rose petals
½ tbsp dried calendula petals
A large bowl, preferably glass or ceramic
A clean towel
Method:
1. Boil the water and carefully pour it into the bowl.
2. Add the lavender, rose and calendula and stir.
3. Hold your face over the steam and cover your head with the towel. Breathe in the steam and relax. Stay there for about 10-15 minutes.
4. Splash your face with cold water and pat dry.
This post first appeared in our November 2022 newsletter. Get all our latest news, recipes, craft ideas and discounts by signing up here.