Wrinkles: The effects of rose geranium essential oil?

Theessential oil of rose geranium, historically used for its fragrant properties, is now valued for its numerous skin benefits. Moreover, it may act against the acceleration of skin aging, and more specifically against the appearance of wrinkles.

However, it is important to note that no scientific study has conducted experiments in vivo on the impact of rose geranium essential oil on wrinkles in particular.

Nevertheless, a study conducted by Petar D. MARIN has proven a antioxidant effect of this oil. More specifically, they found that it was able to reduce and eliminate free radicals, and this activity was dose-dependent. It reduced free radicals by 50% at a concentration of 0.802 mg/mL of oil solution.

Free radicals are unstable species that are produced in response to oxidative stress (pollution, tobacco, UV rays, etc.). Once produced, these radicals will attack DNA and the dermis, particularly dermal fibers such as collagen and elastin, disrupting their structure. These fibers, essential for maintaining skin elasticity, will therefore be affected, leading to the early onset of signs of skin aging: wrinkles, fine lines, dull complexion, less plump, less flexible skin.

The essential oil of rose geranium then acts on free radicals by stabilizing them through the transfer of a hydrogen atom, which neutralizes them and prevents them from affecting the skin. Thus, we can certainly hypothesize that the use of rose geranium essential oil could reduce the appearance of wrinkles due to its antioxidant action.

Additional studies are necessary to confirm these results.

• MARIN P.D. & al. Chemical composition, antifungal and antioxidant activity of Pelargonium graveolens essential oil. Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science (2014).