In a busy corner of London, well-heeled shoppers and tourists browse a constellation of stores selling bottles and jars of frankincense-derived cosmetics. Amid the aromatic resin sheathed under glass, there are various anti-ageing serums, creams, perfumes and essences.
At one counter, a sales assistant is advising customers on how much essential oil to add to a nebuliser to make guests feel relaxed “without overwhelming them”. Another explains frankincense’s moisturising properties, including its alleged ability to smooth out fine lines caused by smiling and squinting. In terms of popularity, she says, it now far outstrips other botanicals.
