In a world where we increasingly turn to natural skincare solutions, St. John’s Wort oil stands out as a versatile treasure – especially for supporting skin health. And this might not come as a surprise, as it has been used for centuries in traditional medicine thanks to its calming and healing benefits. But did you know that St. John’s Wort oil stimulates microcirculation, which can improve skin tone and restore its natural glow?
In this article, we’ll explore how this oil works on the skin, its benefits for different skin types, and how best to incorporate it into your skincare ritual. We’ll also share tips on precautions and reveal how to get the most from this natural remedy to keep your skin healthy and radiant.
What is St. John’s Wort oil?
St. John’s Wort oil is a natural remedy that has been used for thousands of years to treat a wide range of skin concerns. It’s extracted from the flowers of Hypericum perforatum, a plant recognised for its small yellow blooms and remarkable healing powers. It typically grows in sunny, dry meadows and along roadsides, where its blossoms light up the landscape in early summer. These flowers are rich in active compounds that help calm inflammation, promote healing, and care for damaged skin.
The oil is produced through maceration – soaking fresh flowers in a carrier oil, such as olive or sunflower oil, allowing all the plant’s precious properties to infuse into the oil. Its key compounds, hypericin and hyperforin, provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, while flavonoids support skin regeneration and resilience.
Tip: One of the most recognisable traits of this oil is its rich red colour – a result of its high hypericin content.
Benefits of St. John’s Wort oil for the skin
As mentioned, St. John’s Wort oil is rich in healing compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. That’s why it’s a popular ingredient in many creams, serums and body balms.
Its skin benefits include:
- Promoting wound and burn healing by accelerating skin regeneration and soothing discomfort.
- Reducing inflammation, making it suitable for irritated, sensitive skin, eczema or mild forms of dermatitis.
- Softening and moisturising dry skin thanks to its emollient action.
- Offering antibacterial effects, helpful for skin prone to blemishes.
- Relieving muscle tension, making it a wonderful choice for massage oil.
- Delivering antioxidant protection to support youthful skin and shield it from environmental damage.
Which skin types benefit most from it?
One of the standout features of this oil is its versatility. It works beautifully for dry or sensitive skin by delivering deep hydration and soothing irritation. It also helps heal damaged skin – including minor burns, scars or sun damage.
Thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial benefits, it may also be suitable for blemish-prone skin (especially mild acne), though those with very oily skin should use it cautiously, as it may clog pores. On mature skin, it shines as a nourishing treatment to reduce fine lines and maintain a healthy, radiant appearance.
Fun fact: Some studies suggest St. John’s Wort oil may support hair follicle stimulation – though this effect seems limited to women, not male-pattern hair loss.
How to use St. John’s Wort oil
This oil is simple to use. For minor wounds, sunburns or irritated areas, apply a thin layer directly to the skin to soothe and support healing.
You can also blend it into your regular skincare routine. A great way to do so is through the After Sun Elixir, perfect after long days outdoors. The St. John’s Wort oil helps reduce redness, soothe the skin and lock in moisture.
A luxurious body oil crafted from precious natural oils and extracts. It nourishes, soothes, and leaves the skin with a radiant gl.. Details
£14.00
£11.90
Does St. John’s Wort oil contain phototoxic hypericin?
Scientific literature shows that the maceration process breaks down hypericin when exposed to sunlight. The result is lipophilic derivatives responsible for the oil’s distinctive red hue – not phototoxic compounds.
Is St. John’s Wort oil phototoxic?
No – it’s not phototoxic and won’t cause sun sensitivity or burns on the skin.
After using St. John’s Wort oil or products containing it, there’s no need to avoid sun exposure. However, this oil does not provide sun protection and shouldn’t be used as a substitute for SPF.
Caution is needed when the oil is taken internally, especially for sensitive skin or if you’re taking medication, as it may interact with certain drugs.
How does it compare to other plant oils?
Compared to other oils, St. John’s Wort oil offers pronounced anti-inflammatory and soothing effects. While argan oil excels at moisturising, hazelnut oil is great for acne-prone skin, and hemp oil offers universal care, St. John’s Wort oil goes a step further. It supports healing, calms inflammation and promotes skin recovery – especially useful for minor wounds.
St. John’s Wort oil is a beautiful gift from nature, offering a wide range of therapeutic benefits. Its versatility makes it a valuable part of any skincare routine, helping to deeply regenerate, restore and bring glow and suppleness to your skin.
Sources:
https://www.koruhastanesi.com/what-is-st-johns-wort-oil-3927-5
https://petraratajc.com/2018/06/17/sentjanzevo-olje/
Posted by Barbara Novak on date , updated on .
