Ever since the 1960’s, our founder Paul Penders has been searching for the highest quality plant-based natural ingredients to implement into Paul Penders cosmetics. Our unique, botanical skincare line is based on his dedicated research and development along with his continued belief in the healing power of herbs and various plant extracts for ultimate skin and health.
It is always a pleasurable learning journey to speak with our Chemist when he explains the benefits and power of various plants and herbs for our skin. His amazing knowledge is based on many years of study, experience and intense research.
Before any of the ingredients are used, they are analyzed and thoroughly tested. “Only the best plant-based ingredients are used in Paul Penders Cosmetics. All ingredients are tested on grade, purity and heavy metals before they are allowed to be used. When they do not pass the test, we will not use them”
Lavendula angustifolia Essential Oil
One of the active ingredients we use in our cosmetics is Lavendula angustifolia Essential Oil, better known as “lavender oil”. “This legendary botanical belongs to the mint family, but its taste and aroma is unique. The scent profile has been described as a mix of mint and rosemary with sweet & floral hints. It has a long history in the use for beauty and medical treatments”.
Lavandula angustifolia has long been enjoyed in its oil form for its lavish scent and healing effects. Queen Elizabeth and many Victorian ladies loved using lavender oil as a perfume, and even added it to their tea. And it was even used as an antiseptic in the First World War. Lavender is indigenous to the mountainous regions of the Mediterranean with many therapeutic properties and biological activities. Lavandula angustifolia essential oil has various pharmacological effects, such as antimicrobial and antifungal activities. Additionally, various constituents in the oil also have valuable pharmacological properties, such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and microbial powers.
How it is made
Lavender is usually harvested from the fields by hand. The flowers are typically tied together in bunches and laid out to dry. This method is used for preventing the oils from going rancid as well as to easily remove the buds from the stems once they are dry. When the flowers are sufficiently dried, it’s then time to begin the steam distillation process for essential oil. The stem and flowers are loaded into a processing tank while low-pressure steam flows through the tank. The oil glands separate through steam penetration, enabling oil evaporation. The steam is then routed through a vessel to the condenser, where cold water running through coils cool the steam. This process condenses the oil glands into liquid oil, which is now the pure essential oil of lavender.
Many Paul Penders Products contain essential oil of Lavender. It not only helps to boost anti-inflammatory properties, but Lavender Essential Oil is also ultra soothing for our skin, it has anti-aging properties with a therapeutic scent and even helps to kill bacteria. Impurities often flare up when our skin does not have enough oil. To compensate, dry skin often overproduces sebum (our skin’s natural oil) which leads to clogged pores. Lavender Oil clears the pores of our skin, gently moisturizing it and helps to fight impurities. It also has anti-fungal properties to help protect us from dry, itchy and scaly skin.
Skin care benefits of Lavender oil
Lavender oil is widely believed to be skin illuminating, reducing dark spots and skin discoloration. With a high level of antioxidants, Lavender oil naturally assists to fight free radical damage while protecting your skin from unwanted fine lines and wrinkles. It provides calming effects, re-balancing your skin’s natural moisture levels and reducing red, patchy dry skin. Truly, it is no secret that Lavender Oil is one of the bountiful gifts of nature!
