Article: How Do Plant Oils and Essential Oils Differ? The Basics of Oils for Skincare
How Do Plant Oils and Essential Oils Differ? The Basics of Oils for Skincare
Jojoba oil and rosemary essential oil both come from plants and are called “oils”, but their properties are not the same.
Cosmetic ingredient lists feature many plant names. Learning not only the name, but also the form in which a plant is used, can make your everyday skincare feel a little more familiar.
Let us begin with the differences between plant oils and essential oils, and explore the relationship between skin and plants.
The word “oil” covers different properties
The word “oil” is used for substances with different chemical properties. Even among oils obtained from plants, fatty oils and essential oils differ greatly in their components and characteristics.[4]
Plant-derived oily ingredients help keep skin smooth
There are many plant-derived oily ingredients, including jojoba oil and sweet almond oil. Creams and emulsions contain oils and fats to replenish skin oils and provide a moisturised feel.
NACHARAL's Shizuoka Moisture Milk lists jojoba seed oil as an emollient. As a complete product, this emulsion replenishes moisture and oils after lotion, helping keep skin moisturised and smooth.
When learning about an ingredient, look beyond the plant name and consider its purpose in the product.[1]
Essential oils contain concentrated aromatic plant components
Essential oils, by contrast, contain volatile aromatic components extracted from flowers, leaves, fruit peels, roots and other plant parts. “Volatile” means that a substance readily evaporates into the air. The distinctive scent of each plant is one of their characteristics.
The Aroma Environment Association of Japan defines essential oils as natural aromatic substances extracted from plants. As plant aromas are concentrated, care is needed with the amount and method of use.[2]
Follow product directions in your daily routine
Avoid applying undiluted essential oils directly to the skin. Although some practices overseas recommend direct application, the Aroma Environment Association of Japan, Japan's largest aromatherapy organisation, advises against applying undiluted essential oils to the skin or ingesting them. Natural materials also require appropriate handling.[3]
For everyday skincare, start by using finished cosmetic products according to their labels. Rather than adding your own essential oils to intensify the scent, take time to experience the product as formulated.
If redness, itching or irritation occurs, stop using the product and consult a dermatologist as needed.
NACHARAL's approach to learning about plants
The following is NACHARAL's suggestion, informed by botanical knowledge.
Once you learn a plant's name, ask: “In what form is it used?” Is it a material obtained from seeds, or a collection of aromatic components from leaves? What role does it play in a cosmetic product? These small questions can help you take time to consider a routine that suits you. Through NACHARAL's Botanical Cabinet, we hope to learn together about plants, their backgrounds and their place in everyday life.
Closing thoughts
Plant oils and essential oils may share the word “oil”, but their properties and uses differ. When choosing a cosmetic product, check not only the plant names but also the ingredients' purposes and the directions for use. Enjoy learning about plants while keeping your everyday care gentle on your skin. The ingredient label is an accessible place to begin.
Sources and references
Source check date in the original article: 5 November 2026
- NACHARAL: Shizuoka Moisture Milk: full ingredients, ingredient purposes, directions and precautions. Also check the label on your own product before use.
- Aroma Environment Association of Japan: What are essential oils?: definition and characteristics of essential oils.
- Aroma Environment Association of Japan: Enjoying aromatherapy safely: precautions regarding undiluted application and ingestion.
- National Diet Library Collaborative Reference Database: a guide to literature explaining the differences between oils and essential oils.
