Chamomile has been a cornerstone ingredient in soothing skin care practices for centuries. Traditionally, it has been employed as a natural remedy for skin dryness, irritation, and to aid in wound healing. While anecdotal evidence and traditional use continue to support the application of chamomile and its extracts for these purposes, conclusive scientific backing is still developing.
This article explores the potential benefits of chamomile for the skin, with a particular focus on its application for eczema, and offers guidance on how to integrate it into your skincare routine.
Potential Benefits of Chamomile for Skin
Research into the specific benefits of chamomile for the skin is ongoing, and many studies have been conducted on animals. However, preliminary findings suggest that chamomile may offer advantages in several areas:
- Wound healing
- Inflammation reduction
- Eczema management
- Hyperpigmentation
- Acne treatment
Wound Healing
Essential oils derived from chamomile are reported to possess antimicrobial properties, which can offer protection against certain bacteria, fungi, and viruses. A 2018 animal study indicated that an ointment containing Roman chamomile extract demonstrated significant improvement in healing and antibacterial activity in infected wounds when compared to tetracycline ointment and a placebo. Nevertheless, further research is required to fully assess the efficacy and safety of chamomile for these applications.
Inflammation and Eczema
Chamomile is frequently utilized to alleviate skin inflammation, such as that caused by sunburn and rashes. However, research specifically on chamomile for inflammation is limited. A 2010 animal study found that the topical application of German chamomile oil helped to reduce inflammatory symptoms associated with atopic dermatitis, commonly known as eczema. Similarly, a 2021 animal study reported that topical chamomile may assist in managing eczema symptoms. The precise mechanism behind this effect remains unclear, necessitating additional investigation.
A 2021 animal study also reported that topical chamomile may help manage symptoms of eczema. However, the exact pathway of this effect is unclear, and further research is necessary.
Acne Treatment
The anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties that contribute to chamomile's potential effectiveness in treating skin discoloration and inflammation associated with dermatitis may also be beneficial for managing acne. These properties can help to calm the skin and reduce the redness and swelling associated with breakouts.
Soothing Sensitive Skin
Many cosmetic products claim that chamomile's anti-inflammatory qualities can help soothe sensitive skin. While a 2010 review acknowledged older studies discussing chamomile's skin-soothing potential, robust, high-quality evidence to support these claims is currently lacking.
Hyperpigmentation in Radiation Treatment
Hyperpigmentation refers to areas of skin that are darker than the surrounding skin due to an overproduction of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color. This is a common side effect of radiation dermatitis, or radiation burns, which can occur during cancer radiation therapy. A small 2020 study involving individuals undergoing head and neck cancer treatment found that applying chamomile gel may delay the onset of radiation dermatitis symptoms, including skin heat, itching, and hyperpigmentation. However, there is no high-quality evidence to support the use of chamomile for cosmetic pigmentation treatments.
Types of Chamomile
Two primary types of chamomile are relevant for skincare:
- German chamomile (Matricaria recutita)
- Roman chamomile (Anthemis nobilis)
German chamomile is more frequently incorporated into topical ointments and lotions.
Incorporating Chamomile into Your Skincare Routine
There are several ways to introduce chamomile into your skincare regimen:
- Chamomile extract
- Chamomile oil
- Chamomile tea
It is advisable to opt for skincare products containing chamomile extract or chamomile oil, as these forms often contain the potent antioxidant compound chamazulene.
Chamomile can be found in a wide array of skincare products, including facial sprays, oils, serums, lotions, and peels. For most individuals, chamomile is safe for topical use. However, it is prudent to exercise caution when trying any new skincare product due to the potential for allergic reactions. Performing a patch test is recommended before full application. Apply a small amount of the product to your forearm and monitor for any adverse reactions over a week.
Chamomile is also generally well-tolerated when consumed in teas and other preparations. Nonetheless, there is a slight risk of interaction with blood-thinning medications and cyclosporine, a drug used to prevent transplant rejection.
While people have historically used chamomile to treat dry, irritated, and sensitive skin, high-quality scientific evidence to support these uses is limited. The flower does contain chemical compounds with antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties, which may explain its traditional applications. It is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before using new herbal remedies, as they may not be regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the same manner as conventional medications.