Frankincense for the face: benefits, mask recipes, and skincare routine

Frankincense (Boswellia sacra) is known for the smoke produced when its resin is burned in incense burners. What is less well known is that its essential oil has documented skin properties that make it an active ingredient in its own right. The boswellic acids it contains act on inflammation, cell regeneration, and skin elasticity. Some cosmetology studies have shown it to be as effective as retinol on fine lines around the eyes, without the irritating effects of the latter.

Here's what frankincense can do for your skin, with practical recipes you can make at home.

Why frankincense works on the skin

Anti-inflammatory action. Boswellic acids (AKBA, beta-boswellic acid) inhibit certain enzymes responsible for skin inflammation (5-lipoxygenase). This action soothes redness, irritation, and reactive skin. People prone to mild eczema, psoriasis, or diffuse redness often experience rapid relief.

Anti-aging effect. Frankincense stimulates the synthesis of collagen and elastin, the two structural proteins in the skin. The result: fine lines are reduced, skin texture is refined, and the complexion appears more radiant. This effect is gradual—it takes three to four weeks of regular application to see visible results.

Deep hydration. Frankincense essential oil, diluted in vegetable oil, penetrates the upper layers of the epidermis and maintains moisture levels. It is suitable for dry, dehydrated, and mature skin.

Natural antibacterial agent. Frankincense has antiseptic properties that help regulate the bacteria responsible for blemishes (Cutibacterium acnes). It is therefore suitable for combination to oily skin prone to breakouts.

Recipe 1: Olibanum and honey moisturizing mask

This mask combines the regenerating action of frankincense with the moisturizing properties of honey. It is suitable for all skin types.

Ingredients : 1 tablespoon of raw honey (our carob honey works very well here), 2 drops of frankincense essential oil, 1 teaspoon of plain yogurt.

Preparation : Mix the honey and yogurt in a bowl. Add 2 drops of frankincense essential oil. Stir.

Application : Apply a thin layer to a clean, dry face, avoiding the eye area. Leave on for 15 minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water, then wipe with a cotton pad soaked in floral water (rose or lavender). Frequency: Once or twice a week.

Recipe 2: Frankincense and argan anti-aging serum

A concentrated serum to target wrinkles and sagging skin.

Ingredients : 30 ml virgin argan oil, 6 drops frankincense essential oil, 3 drops musk rose essential oil (optional).

Preparation : pour the argan oil into a 30 ml amber bottle. Add the drops of essential oil. Close and shake gently. Store away from light.

Application : In the evening, after cleansing your face, place 3 to 4 drops of serum in the palm of your hand. Apply by massaging from the center of the face outwards, then from the chin to the temples. Focus on the eye contour area using the tip of your ring finger (light pressure). Use as a 3-week treatment, then take a one-week break.

Recipe 3: Purifying frankincense and clay mask

For combination to oily skin prone to blemishes.

Ingredients : 1 tablespoon of green clay (or white clay for sensitive skin), 2 teaspoons of lavender floral water, 2 drops of frankincense essential oil.

Preparation : in a non-metallic bowl (ceramic or glass), mix the clay and floral water until you obtain a smooth paste. Add the frankincense essential oil. Stir with a wooden spatula.

Application : Apply to the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin) or to the entire face. Leave on for a maximum of 10 minutes. Never allow the clay to dry completely, as this will cause excessive tightening of the skin. Rinse with warm water. Frequency: Once a week.

Complete facial treatment with frankincense

For those who want to incorporate frankincense into a structured routine, here is a weekly protocol:

Every evening : cleanse your face. Apply the frankincense-argan serum (recipe 2). This is the basic daily routine.

Twice a week : replace your evening serum with the honey-olibanum moisturizing mask (recipe 1). Leave on for 15 minutes, rinse, then apply the serum.

Once a week (combination/oily skin): apply the purifying frankincense-clay mask (recipe 3) before the serum.

Every 3 weeks : take a one-week break from frankincense essential oil, then resume use. Essential oils are powerful active ingredients; the skin needs periods of rest to prevent sensitivity from developing.

Which vegetable oil should be combined with frankincense?

Frankincense essential oil should never be applied neat to the face. It must be diluted in a carrier oil. Depending on your skin type:

Dry/mature skin : argan oil (nourishing, rich in vitamin E) or rosehip oil (regenerating).

Combination skin : jojoba oil (regulates sebum, light texture similar to human sebum).

Oily skin : black cumin oil (purifying, anti-blemish) or hazelnut oil (dry, absorbs quickly).

Sensitive skin : calendula oil (soothing) or sweet almond oil (very gentle, hypoallergenic).

Precautions

Frankincense essential oil is contraindicated for pregnant or breastfeeding women and children under 6 years of age. Always perform a skin test on the inner elbow (1 diluted drop, wait 24 hours) before using on the face for the first time. Do not exceed a 2% concentration of essential oil in a facial preparation (approximately 6 drops per 30 ml of vegetable oil). If in doubt, consult a healthcare professional.

Real and Roots frankincense essential oil is extracted by steam distillation in Oman from pure Boswellia sacra resin. Find it in our Essential Oilssection.