Juniperberry Essential Oil, 500 ml

Juniper berry essential oil

Juniper berry essential oil has two uses in a formulation: as a fragrance ingredient with a clean herbal-woody scent and as an active ingredient in face, body and hair care. It is obtained by steam distillation of the berries of common juniper (Juniperus communis).

In recipes it suits products where a fresh, clean character is desired: shampoos and scalp tonics, after-sun body oils, massage blends, soaps and shower products, as well as diffuser and aromatherapy blends. The oil is vegan and has not been tested on animals.

What it is suitable for

For this oil, the manufacturer states a cooling, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effect. These data come from the manufacturer’s own documentation and are not clinically proven properties of the finished product. However, realistic cosmetic uses can be derived from them:

• Freshness and a cooling sensation – according to the manufacturer, it leaves a cooling feel on the skin, so it is added to after-sun products and refreshing body oils.
• Soothing reddened skin – the manufacturer recommends it for products for irritated and reddened skin. The result always depends on the usage rate and the whole recipe.
• Clear-looking skin – the antimicrobial properties stated by the manufacturer make it an interesting ingredient for blemish-prone skin, for example in face oils, cleansing gels or masks.
• Scalp and hair – the fresh scent and stimulating character are used in shampoos, scalp tonics, hair mists and leave-in conditioners.
• Fragrance – the herbal-woody note works well in perfume blends, soaps and candle compositions.

Use in a formulation

It dissolves in oils and in alcohol and does not dissolve in water. In anhydrous products (body and massage oils, balms, oil serums) it is worked directly into the oil phase. In emulsions it is added only during the cooling phase, so that the volatile components do not evaporate unnecessarily. For finished gels, tonics or other water-based systems a solubiliser is needed, otherwise the oil stays on the surface in droplets.

For subsequent incorporation into finished creams or shampoos, thorough mixing is enough. The documentation states compatibility without restrictions, but it is advisable to check the behaviour in your specific recipe on a small sample. The oil is colourless to pale yellow.

The maximum usage rate is governed by the IFRA limits for the given product category. A different limit applies to each category, from lip products (category 1) through deodorants, face creams, shampoos and soaps to candles and air fresheners (category 12). Check the specific value for your type of product in the IFRA data for the product. The oil is suitable for both rinse-off and leave-on products. Products for children, for the eyes, for the lips or for oral hygiene have their own categories in the IFRA system, so check the limit before designing the recipe.

Frequently asked questions