viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" width="20" height="20" aria-hidden="true"> Wood Oil

AMYRIS BALSAMIFERA BARK OIL
Essential Wood Oil (Steam Distillation)

AMYRIS BALSAMIFERA BARK OIL is obtained by steam distillation from the bark and wood of the Amyris tree, which is native to the Caribbean. Learn everything about its origin, effect, and the best application in your daily skincare routine here.

Also known as: West Indian Sandalwood Oil, Candlewood Oil, Torchwood Oil, Amyris Oil
Substance Class Essential Wood Oil (Steam Distillation)
INCI Name AMYRIS BALSAMIFERA BARK OIL
CAS Number 8015-65-4
Comedogenicity Grade 1 (low)

viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" width="32" height="32" aria-hidden="true"> What is AMYRIS BALSAMIFERA BARK OIL?

Amyris balsamifera Bark Oil, also known as West Indian Sandalwood Oil, is obtained from the bark and wood of the Caribbean Amyris tree. This essential oil owes its reputation to a warm-woody scent profile that amazingly resembles real sandalwood – but with significantly more sustainable harvesting. In skincare, amyris oil convinces primarily through its high concentration of sesquiterpenes such as valencene, elemol, and β-eudesmol, which possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and regenerating properties. Unlike many other essential oils, it is exceptionally mild and therefore also suitable for sensitive skin types. In aromatherapy, it is traditionally used for stress reduction and promotion of inner peace – an effect that can also have a positive impact on stress-related skin problems.

viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" width="32" height="32" aria-hidden="true"> Where does AMYRIS BALSAMIFERA BARK OIL come from?

It is obtained by steam distillation from the bark and wood of the Amyris tree, which is native to the Caribbean. The oil is often referred to as 'West Indian Sandalwood' because its warm, woody scent resembles real sandalwood – with significantly more sustainable harvesting and a lower price. The botanical name is Amyris balsamifera (Family: Rutaceae). Parts used: bark and wood. Main regions of origin: Caribbean (Haiti, Jamaica), Central America. In modern cosmetics, extraction and processing are subject to strict quality standards according to EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009. RAU Cosmetics exclusively sources cosmetic-grade raw materials from verified suppliers.

viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" width="32" height="32" aria-hidden="true"> How does AMYRIS BALSAMIFERA BARK OIL work on a cellular level?

Contains high proportions of sesquiterpenes (especially valencene, elemol, and β-eudesmol), which exhibit antioxidant and skin-soothing properties. The lipophilic molecules penetrate the skin barrier and act anti-inflammatorily by reducing the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Additionally, the oil supports skin regeneration by promoting keratinocyte proliferation.

viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" width="32" height="32" aria-hidden="true"> Dosage & Regulation

Typical use concentration: 0.1-1% in facial care, 1-3% in body care and massage oils, up to 5% in perfume compositions

How it works on your skin

Antioxidant Cell Protection

The sesquiterpenes valencene and elemol neutralize free radicals and protect skin cells from oxidative stress. Studies show that these molecules inhibit lipid peroxidation in the cell membrane and thus counteract premature skin aging. After regular use, the skin becomes more resistant to environmental stressors such as UV radiation and air pollution.

Anti-inflammatory

β-Eudesmol, a main component of amyris oil, inhibits cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and thereby reduces the production of prostaglandins. This relieves skin redness and irritation similarly to synthetic anti-inflammatories, but without their potential side effects. Particularly effective for inflammatory skin reactions and rosacea.

Skin Regeneration

Promotes the proliferation of keratinocytes and thus supports natural skin renewal. The terpenoid compounds activate cellular repair mechanisms and accelerate wound healing. This makes the oil particularly valuable in after-sun products and regeneration serums for stressed skin.

Barrier Strengthening

The lipophilic properties of the oil help stabilize the skin lipid layer and reduce transepidermal water loss. Unlike heavy plant oils, amyris oil absorbs quickly and leaves no greasy film. After regular use, skin moisture improves measurably by 15-20%.

Aromatherapeutic Effect

The warm-woody, balsamic scent has a calming effect on the central nervous system and reduces stress hormones like cortisol. In aromatherapy, amyris oil is traditionally used for anxiety and sleep disorders. This psycho-dermal effect can also positively influence stress-related skin problems such as perioral dermatitis.

Who is it for?

Mature Skin

Antioxidant sesquiterpenes protect against premature skin aging and promote cell renewal.

Dry Skin

Supports the skin barrier through lipophilic properties and reduces transepidermal water loss.

Sensitive Skin

Acts anti-inflammatorily and soothingly without irritating the skin – ideal for sensitive skin types.

Stressed Skin

The warm-woody scent has an aromatherapeutically relaxing effect and reduces stress-related skin redness.

In your routine

Cleansing

Can be used as part of cleansing oils (2-3% concentration). Massage 2-3 pumps into dry skin to gently dissolve make-up and impurities before emulsifying with warm water.

Serum/Treatment

Optimal in facial serums at 0.5-1% concentration. Apply 3-4 drops to cleansed, still slightly damp skin to maximize the penetration of active sesquiterpenes.

Face Cream

In day or night creams at 0.3-0.8%. Massage in a pea-sized amount morning and evening. Combines well with hyaluronic acid and ceramides for maximum barrier strengthening.

Body Care

In body oils and massage oils, the concentration can be increased to 2-5%. Apply to still damp skin after showering to enhance the aromatherapeutic effect.

Storage: Relatively stable due to the high sesquiterpene content. Nevertheless, store cool (below 25°C), dark, and airtight. Protect in formulations with antioxidants such as tocopherol. Avoid storage in transparent glass bottles without UV protection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is amyris oil referred to as 'West Indian Sandalwood'?

Amyris oil has a similar scent profile to real East Indian sandalwood oil (Santalum album) – warm, woody, balsamic – but costs only a fraction. The amyris tree regrows significantly faster than the endangered sandalwood tree, which is why amyris oil represents a sustainable alternative. Chemically, however, both oils differ: amyris is rich in sesquiterpenes, while sandalwood primarily contains santalols. Despite different compositions, both offer similar skin-caring properties.

Can amyris oil be used for acne, or does it clog pores?

With a comedogenicity level of only 1, amyris oil is very pore-friendly and can also be used for acne-prone skin. The anti-inflammatory sesquiterpenes can even help reduce inflammatory acne lesions. However, concentration is important: in facial care, it should not exceed 1%. Those with very oily skin should preferably use amyris oil in light serums instead of rich creams.

How does amyris oil differ from other essential oils in skincare?

Unlike many essential oils (such as tea tree oil or citrus oils), amyris oil is exceptionally mild and non-irritating. It contains no photosensitizing furocoumarins like bergamot oil and no strong antimicrobial monoterpenes like tea tree oil. Instead, skin-friendly sesquiterpenes with antioxidant and regenerating effects dominate. This makes amyris oil particularly suitable for leave-on products and sensitive skin – while other essential oils are often tolerated only in low concentrations or as rinse-off.

Does amyris oil lose its effect through oxidation?

Amyris oil is significantly more stable than many other essential oils because sesquiterpenes are less susceptible to oxidation than monoterpenes. Nevertheless, it should be stored cool, dark, and airtight. In cosmetic formulations, stability is additionally protected by antioxidants such as Vitamin E. A sign of oxidized amyris oil is a change in scent – fresh oil smells warm-woody, oxidized oil develops a sharp, turpentine-like note.

Is amyris oil sustainably sourced?

Yes, Amyris balsamifera is not endangered and regrows relatively quickly. The main production countries Haiti and Jamaica also have no overexploitation problems due to lower demand (compared to real sandalwood). Nevertheless, it is important to look for providers that guarantee sustainable harvesting methods and fair working conditions. Some manufacturers support reforestation programs in the Caribbean to protect local ecosystems.

Discover the Power of AMYRIS BALSAMIFERA BARK OIL

Find the right RAU Cosmetics product for your individual skin care routine.

Discover all active ingredients