Ingredient

Sandalwood Oil

Santalum austro-caledonicum Vieill

A reassuring and grounding scent, that creates the base of many beautiful perfumes.

Where do we get it?

Lush purchases this oil from New Caledonia, where the local government grants quotas for harvesting every year and where sandalwood saplings are regularly replanted. The oil producer only uses wood from sustainably managed, wild-harvested trees of the Santalum austro-caledonicum Vieill species. 

What are the challenges when buying sandalwood oil?

Because of its popular fragrance and importance in many rites and folk medicine around the globe, sandalwood has been overexploited and the harvesting badly managed for centuries, leaving some species endangered. Although regulations have been made by governments, the high value of the wood still leads to smuggling, counterfeits and corruption, making it very difficult to find sustainable sources and a good oil quality. After long investigations and adventures, Lush buyers have found a few reliable sources, including this one.

What are the benefits of sandalwood oil for you?

• Diffuses a warm, sweet and woody aroma.
• Is astringent, emollient and soothing to the skin.
• Helps fix the other essential oils, naturally enhancing the longevity of a perfume.

Unique stories

Sandalwood is an umbrella name for many scented trees, all belonging to the Santalum genus. These evergreen trees can grow up to 50 feet tall and have to be at least 25 years old before the wood is ready for distillation. Depending on the variety of sandalwood, the resulting oils will have a slightly different scent, even though it needs a trained nose to really smell these subtleties.