Treatments for blemishes are often associated with potent actives, complex chemical ingredients and routines packed with steps. However, master perfumer Enrique Sanz Bascuñana reminds us that natural cosmetics also offer simple and effective tools, provided they are formulated and used correctly.
His proposed anti-blemish serum is based on combining a depigmenting vegetable oil with a less well-known but highly active essential oil. Despite the simplicity of the blend, it requires consistency and certain precautions. It is not simply about applying a product, but about understanding its behaviour, its potency and its relationship with the sun. For Enrique, this is fundamental if the aim is to reduce blemishes and not trigger new ones.
Rosehip oil, a plant-based oil with a depigmenting effect
The first ingredient of the serum is the rosehip oil, well known in natural cosmetics, to which Enrique attributes a depigmenting action in itself.
There is no need to accompany it with other ingredients to obtain benefits. Its composition, rich in antioxidants, and its regenerative capacity mean that used consistently it helps to lighten the spots and the marks.
In addition to its depigmenting effect, its texture makes it suitable as the base of a serum, because it nourishes the skin and absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy film.
Celery seed essential oil
The second ingredient is a less common essential oil in facial routines, celery seed essential oil. Enrique highlights it as a potent depigmenting agent, effective even at very low concentrations. Therefore, only 1% is needed within the final formula.
It is a somewhat unusual essential oil, as he himself admits, but it adds significant value in the fight against blemishes. Thanks to its potency, it does not need to be blended with other essential oils.
With humour, Sanz Bascuñana says that the aroma of celery seed essential oil may recall a salad. It is not particularly problematic, but it is something to bear in mind if you share a room or if you are sensitive to the strong aromas of essential oils.
The exact formula for the DIY anti-spot serum
According to Enrique, the serum is simply prepared by mixing:
- 99% of high-quality rosehip oil
- 1% of celery seed essential oil
For example, 1 ml of celery oil and 99 ml of rosehip. The blend should be shaken or stirred well to ensure the essential oil is incorporated evenly. It does not require preservatives or other additives, provided it is stored correctly and kept free from contamination.
Store the serum in a dark glass bottle with a dropper and keep it in a cool space, protected from light. This will prevent oxidation and maintain the potency of the oils.
How to apply it safely
Application, according to Sanz Bascuñana on the YouTube podcast A lo grande, should be performed daily. However, this comes with a crucial caveat: celery seed essential oil can be photosensitising. In other words, it can react with sunlight and provoke new spots or irritations. This makes the timing of use a key consideration.
To minimise risk, Enrique recommends using the serum only at night, as a matter of routine. If the aim is to fade spots, it makes little sense to expose the skin to sun after applying a photosensitive ingredient.
How to complement the serum in a natural skincare routine
This serum can sit alongside other products, provided they do not contain strong exfoliants or acids that increase photosensitivity, particularly if used at night. Ideally, pair it with moisturising and sunscreen protection during the day.
It is important to remember that, being an oil, it should always be applied to clean skin and as the final step of the nightly routine.
