Frankincense Oil Skin Care Benefits Explained

By the VitalResin Team — Skincare & doTERRA enthusiasts

Maybe you've spotted frankincense in a serum or facial oil and wondered what it actually does for your skin. The short answer: Frankincense is a botanical oil that many people use as part of a cosmetic routine to help skin look smoother, softer, and more radiant. It's not a treatment for any skin condition, but as a daily ritual, it can add a lovely moment of care. In our experience, it works best when paired with a gentle cleanser and a good moisturizer, not as a standalone fix. The goal is simple: a complexion that looks fresh and feels nourished. Below, we talk about how frankincense fits into skincare, which doTERRA products pair well with it, and what to expect.

Why Frankincense Feels Like a Natural Fit for Skincare

Frankincense comes from the resin of the Boswellia tree. In skincare, it's valued for its warm, grounding aroma and the way it blends easily with carrier oils. People often describe it as a "hero oil" for a radiant-looking complexion. It doesn't promise to erase wrinkles or reverse aging. Instead, it supports a routine that makes skin feel pampered. Frankincense Touch is pre-diluted with fractionated coconut oil, which makes it convenient for on-the-go application. Many women add a drop to their evening moisturizer or use it during a quiet self-care moment.

For a more complete ritual, we like layering frankincense with other botanical oils. Immortelle is designed for a smooth-looking appearance, while Yarrow Pom combines yarrow and pomegranate oils for a fresh, hydrated look. Together, they create a sensorial experience that feels more like a spa moment than a chore.

How to Build a Simple Frankincense Skin Ritual

Starting with frankincense doesn't require a ten-step routine. Here's a numbered approach we recommend most often:

1. Cleanse gently. Use a mild facial cleanser to remove makeup and daily buildup. Pat skin dry.
2. Dilute the oil. Add one drop of Frankincense to a pea-sized amount of your favorite unscented facial moisturizer. Never apply it undiluted to your face.
3. Warm it between fingertips. Rub your palms together lightly, then press them onto your face. This helps distribute the oil evenly.
4. Massage upward. Use slow, upward strokes on the cheeks, forehead, and jawline. Avoid the delicate eye area unless you're using a product specifically made for it.
5. Follow with eye care if desired. Few drops of a gentle eye serum can complement the ritual.
6. Patch test first. Before your first use, test the diluted blend on a small area (like the inner forearm) and wait 24 hours.

Remember that citrus oils like Bergamot are photosensitive, so if you add them to a daytime mix, avoid direct sun for about 12 hours. Frankincense itself is not a citrus oil, but it's good practice to know what you're blending.

Comparing Frankincense Formats for Skin

Different formats suit different routines. Here's a quick comparison:

Product	Format	Best for
Frankincense	Pure oil	Diluting into your own moisturizer or serum
Frankincense Touch	Pre-diluted roll-on	Travel or quick touch-ups
Immortelle	Blend in roller bottle	Smoothing the look of fine lines
Yarrow Pom	Blend	A fresh, dewy appearance

For most beginners, we suggest starting with the pure oil and mixing it yourself. That gives you control over concentration and lets you match it with your existing moisturizer. The Essentials Kit includes Frankincense along with other popular oils like Lavender and Lemon, which can be a gentle introduction to botanical skincare. We've also seen people pair frankincense with Geranium for a floral, skin-friendly blend that feels very spa-like.

For a deeper dive on how frankincense supports a glowing appearance, check out our guide to Frankincense Face Oil Benefits for Glowing Skin.

Related reading

• Frankincense Face Oil in Your Skincare Routine

FAQ

Can I apply frankincense oil directly to my face?

No, we recommend always diluting it first. Mix one drop with your moisturizer or a carrier oil like jojoba. Even gentle oils can feel irritating on undiluted skin, especially around the cheeks and under the eyes.

How often should I use frankincense in my skincare routine?

Once a day is a good starting point. Many people prefer using it in the evening because the aroma feels grounding and the skin has time to absorb it overnight. You can adjust based on how your skin feels.

Does frankincense remove wrinkles or reverse aging?

No. It cannot remove wrinkles or reverse the aging process. What it can do is contribute to a smooth, hydrated look when used consistently as part of a cosmetic routine, but results vary and are not guaranteed.

Frankincense earns its place as a gentle, aromatic addition to a botanical skincare ritual. When combined with consistent cleansing and moisturizing, it can help your skin look more radiant and feel softer over time.

This content is for general information only and is not medical advice. Essential oils are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease; consult a qualified healthcare professional before use.

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