Summer brings longer days, heat, trips to the beach with family and friends... and also brings some challenges to our skin, sleep, and overall well-being. This time of year, we seek natural solutions to cool down and care for our body and mind—and that's where lavender essential oil shines as a seasonal ally.

Known for its soft, floral aroma, lavender oil is more than just a relaxing scent: it has proven therapeutic properties. We'll explore its main benefits and provide some practical tips for using lavender essential oil safely, allowing you to enjoy the sun in complete comfort!

Why use lavender oil in summer?

Lavender essential oil, extracted from the plant's flowers through steam distillation, has been known for centuries for its calming, anti-inflammatory, regenerative, and antiseptic properties . ¹ But what makes it especially useful during the warmer months?

Think about the most challenging summer situations: long sun exposure, insect bites, more sensitive and irritated skin, difficulty sleeping due to the heat, and even holiday stress. For all of these, lavender can be a natural balm:

- Soothes sunburn and skin irritation: lavender is ideal for relieving the burning sensation of sunburned skin, with anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties that help reduce discomfort and redness, promoting faster recovery ^2,3 ;

- Relieves mosquito and other insect bites: just a drop of diluted lavender oil, applied to the bite area, helps disinfect, reduce itching and redness, and speeds up healing ³ ;

- Improves sleep quality: lavender is a powerful natural sedative that helps relax the body and mind . ⁴ On warmer nights, a few drops in a diffuser or on your pillow can make all the difference.

- Combats stress: Vacations aren't always synonymous with tranquility, and between organizing trips and caring for children, anxiety often creeps in. The aroma of lavender has anxiolytic and calming effects ^, helping to promote emotional balance.

- Refreshes the body and the environment: Lavender oil is a natural alternative to synthetic deodorants and air fresheners, and can be used as a body spray or to scent your car or bedroom.

How to use lavender essential oil safely?

Despite being a natural product, lavender essential oil should be used with caution—especially in summer, when skin is more sensitive and exposed to sunlight. The key is to choose the most appropriate method of use and always follow good safety practices.

Diffusion in the environment

Place 3 to 5 drops in an essential oil diffuser with water and let the aroma fill your space. It's the ideal way to relax, creating a peaceful atmosphere at home or a place conducive to falling asleep.

Topical application (always diluted)

He dilutes lavender oil in a carrier oil—such as coconut or almond oil—at a ratio of 2 to 3 drops of essential oil to every tablespoon of carrier oil. You can use this mixture to soothe mild sunburns (that don't require medical attention), treat insect bites, moisturize skin after sun exposure, or simply for a relaxing ^massage .

Body spray or air freshener

In a 100ml spray bottle, mix 70ml of distilled water with 30ml of rubbing alcohol and add 10 to 15 drops of lavender essential oil. Shake well and it's ready to use as a refreshing body spray or to scent your room, car, or beach bag. Remember to always shake before each use to ensure the essential oil is well dissolved.

Aromatic bath

Add 4 to 6 drops of lavender essential oil, previously diluted in a tablespoon of vegetable oil, to your bathwater. It's a simple and effective way to relax, relieve fatigue, and care for your skin—after all, that's what vacations are for!

Tips and precautions for using lavender essential oil

• He always performs a sensitivity test before applying lavender essential oil to the skin for the first time. He applies a small, diluted amount to the inner (more protected) part of the forearm and waits 24 hours to see if any adverse reaction occurs.

• Avoid direct sunlight after applying the essential oil to your skin, even when diluted. Although lavender is not photosensitizing (meaning it doesn't increase skin sensitivity to sunlight), more sensitive skin may experience mild reactions—and caution is paramount;

• Avoid contact of the oil with eyes, mucous membranes, and intimate areas. In case of accidental contact, wash with vegetable oil (not water);

• Always use pure, therapeutic-grade essential oils, preferably organic and certified. Check the label and the source;

• Although lavender is one of the safest oils, it should be used sparingly on babies and pregnant women, and only under professional guidance.

Lavender essential oil is versatile, safe, and effective, and can help you stay comfortable during the summer in many ways—from soothing sunburn, stings, and stress to helping you relax on warm nights.

Make it an essential part of your summer routine: keep a bottle on your bedside table and another in your suitcase, and transform the season into a natural spa, ensuring you recharge and enjoy all the relaxation and rest you deserve.

Did you enjoy this article? Read other content we've prepared for you on the Bioself blog ! There, you'll find information on health and well-being, and even some recipes to try at home. Enjoy.