Rosewood Oil (Aniba Rosaeodora) is a fragrant essential oil that’s steam-distilled from the wood of the rosenwood tree, native to the Amazon rainforest. Known for its floral, woody, and slightly spicy aroma, this oil has long been cherished in both perfume and skincare—especially for its gentle yet effective properties.

What is Rosewood Oil?

Derived from the Aniba rosaeodora tree, rosewood oil is rich in linalool (over 80–90%), which gives it many of its skin benefits. It’s a gentle powerhouse in skincare—offering cell regeneration, balancing, and calming effects wrapped in a soothing, floral-woody aroma. It’s aromatically similar to a softer version of lavender or ho wood oil. It’s particularly loved in formulations for aging, dull, or sensitive skin. As long as it’s sourced ethically, it’s a lovely addition to a well-rounded botanical skincare lineup.

How is Rosewood Oil used in skincare?

Rosewood oil is used in:

• Facial oils and serums
• Balms and creams for dry, aging, or irritated skin
• Cleansing oils and micellar waters
• Aromatherapeutic skincare for mood-lifting effects

What are the benefits of Rosewood Oil for your complexion and skin microbiome?

Rosewood Oil (Aniba Rosaeodora) can be supportive for your skin microbiome—depending on how it's used. While not a microbiome-specific ingredient like prebiotics or fermented extracts, it does have several features that can indirectly promote a healthier skin ecosystem:

• Supports Skin Regeneration: Rosewood oil contains 80–90% linalool, which has gentle antimicrobial properties. This may help curb overgrowth of opportunistic or acne-causing bacteria (e.g., Cutibacterium acnes) without wiping out beneficial microbes—as long as used in low concentrations. The high linalool content helps stimulate cell renewal, aiding in the repair of damaged, tired, or aging skin. This is great for treating fine lines, dullness, and post-acne marks.
• Balances Oil Production: Rosewood oil gently regulates sebum, making it ideal for combination or acne-prone skin. Even better, it doesn’t overly strip or dry out the skin.
• Antibacterial & Antiseptic: Rosewood oil helps cleanse the skin and reduce blemish-causing bacteria. It can support clearer pores and help calm breakouts without being overly harsh.
• Anti-inflammatory Benefits: Rosewood helps reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which are both microbiome disruptors. Less inflammation means less disruption to microbial harmony.
• Calms Sensitive or Irritated Skin: Known for its gentle, non-irritating nature—even on reactive skin—rosewood oil may reduce redness, minor rashes, or irritation. This helps maintain the skin’s protective barrier (a critical element of a thriving microbiome). A calm, well-moisturized skin environment supports microbial diversity and balance.