Himanshu Saini September 5, 2025
India’s wellness revolution is in full bloom, and essential oils are at the heart of it. From skincare rituals to stress relief, these potent plant extracts are transforming how we care for our bodies and minds. With the rise of natural and holistic beauty, personal care and wellness brands across India are embracing essential oils for private label in India not just for their fragrance but for their therapeutic benefits.
Whether you’re a brand looking to expand your product line or a wellness enthusiast curious about what’s trending, here’s a curated list of the top 10 essential oils in demand across India’s booming personal care market.
1. Lavender Oil
Why it’s loved: Lavender oil is the poster child of calm. Known for its soothing aroma and skin-healing properties, it’s a staple in everything from face serums to sleep sprays. It is one of the popular essential oils for wellness brands. So, if you are starting off as a wellness brand, you can give it a try.
Uses in India:
- Stress-relief roll-ons
- Night creams and pillow mists
- Hair masks for scalp relaxation
Bonus: It’s also a natural antiseptic, making it ideal for acne-prone skin.
2. Tea Tree Oil
Why it’s loved: Tea tree oil is a powerful pure essential oil for fighting acne, dandruff, and fungal infections. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties make it a must-have in skincare and haircare.
Uses in India:
- Anti-acne face washes and spot treatments
- Scalp cleansers and anti-dandruff shampoos
- Foot creams and nail serums
Trend Alert: Ayurvedic brands are blending tea tree with neem and tulsi for enhanced results.
3. Orange Oil
Why it’s loved: Sweet orange oil is uplifting, energising, and packed with antioxidants. It’s a favourite for brightening skin and boosting mood.
Uses in India:
- Vitamin C serums and face masks
- Aromatherapy diffusers
- Natural deodorants and body washes
Fun Fact: It’s often used in festive wellness kits for its cheerful scent.
4. Eucalyptus Oil
Why it’s loved: Eucalyptus oil is a go-to for respiratory relief and muscle relaxation. With its cooling effect, it’s widely used in balms and massage oils.
Uses in India:
- Chest rubs and steam inhalation blends
- Pain relief oils and sprays
- Spa treatments and sauna infusions
Ayurvedic Connection: Often paired with camphor and peppermint for sinus relief.
5. Rose Oil
Why it’s loved: Rose oil is the epitome of luxury and skin rejuvenation. It hydrates, tones, and soothes sensitive skin while offering a divine aroma.
Uses in India:
- Anti-aging serums and facial oils
- Rose water toners and creams
- Bridal skincare kits
Market Insight: Premium brands like Forest Essentials and Kama Ayurveda feature rose oil in their hero products.
6. Sandalwood Oil
Why it’s loved: Deeply rooted in Indian tradition, sandalwood oil is revered for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s a sacred ingredient in both skincare and spiritual rituals.
Uses in India:
- Face packs and fairness creams
- Meditation blends and incense oils
- Aftershave lotions and perfumes
Cultural Edge: Its spiritual significance boosts its appeal in wellness rituals.
7. Peppermint Oil
Why it’s loved: Peppermint oil is invigorating and cooling. It’s used to relieve headaches, improve focus, and soothe sore muscles.
Uses in India:
- Headache balms and roll-ons
- Foot creams and cooling gels
- Oral care products like mouthwash
Consumer Favorite: Popular among young adults for its energising vibe and is easily available for contract manufacturing of essential oils.
8. Lemongrass Oil
Why it’s loved: Lemongrass oil is a natural deodoriser and insect repellent. Its fresh citrus scent makes it a favourite in home and body care.
Uses in India:
- Body sprays and deodorants
- Mosquito repellents and room fresheners
- Detox bath blends
Eco-Friendly Appeal: Brands are using it in sustainable cleaning products too.
9. Rosemary Oil
Why it’s loved: Rosemary oil is known for stimulating hair growth and improving memory. It’s a rising star in haircare and cognitive wellness. It is one of the remarkable essential oils for beauty brands, so it could be an excellent add-on to your beauty brand.
Uses in India:
- Hair oils and growth serums
- Scalp tonics and shampoos
- Study blends and focus-enhancing diffusers
Trending: DIY hair oil blends with rosemary and castor oil are going viral.
10. Ylang Ylang Oil
Why it’s loved: Exotic and floral, ylang ylang oil is used to balance mood and improve skin elasticity. It’s gaining traction in luxury wellness products.
Uses in India:
- Mood-enhancing perfumes and bath oils
- Anti-aging creams and serums
- Romantic massage oils
Luxury Factor: Often featured in high-end aromatherapy kits.
Why are Essential Oils Booming in India?
India’s wellness market is evolving rapidly. Consumers are shifting toward natural, organic, and Ayurvedic solutions, and essential oils fit perfectly into this narrative. Here’s why these popular essential oils in India are in high demand:
- Holistic Healing: Essential oils for personal care offer emotional, physical, and spiritual benefits.
- Clean Beauty Movement: Brands are ditching synthetic ingredients for plant-based alternatives.
- DIY Culture: Consumers love mixing their own blends for skincare and wellness.
- Global Influence: International trends like aromatherapy and clean living are shaping Indian preferences.
Final Thoughts
Essential oils are more than just fragrant drops; they’re a bridge between tradition and modern wellness. As Indian consumers become more conscious of what they put on their skin and inhale into their lungs, the demand for pure, therapeutic essential oils will only grow.
Whether you’re a brand formulating your next bestseller or a wellness seeker looking to launch an essential oil brand, these top 10 essential oils are your gateway to holistic beauty and well-being.
FAQs
Q. What are essential oils, and why are they popular in personal care?
Ans. Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts known for their aromatic and therapeutic properties. They are popular in personal care for promoting healthy skin, hair, and overall wellness naturally.
Q. Which essential oils are currently most in demand in India?
Ans. Lavender, tea tree, peppermint, sandalwood, rose, eucalyptus, lemon, frankincense, ylang ylang, and jasmine oils are among the most sought-after for skincare, haircare, and wellness products.
Q. How do essential oils benefit the skin?
Ans. Depending on the oil, benefits include soothing irritation, reducing acne, hydrating, improving complexion, and slowing signs of ageing.
Q. Can essential oils be used on all skin types?
Ans. Many essential oils are gentle and suitable for most skin types, but sensitive skin may require diluted formulations or patch testing before full use.
Q. Are essential oils safe for hair care products?
Ans. Yes, essential oils like peppermint, ylang ylang, and rosemary are commonly used to promote hair growth, strengthen hair, and maintain scalp health.
