Many people apply essential oils topically. It is one of the most popular uses of essential oils. However, essential oil topical application is different from applying regular body lotions or moisturisers. Generally, you should only use essential oils on the parts of your body where they are needed for a localized effect. For instance, to soothe the body after a leg workout session, one may choose to apply essential oils to the muscles in the legs. Some people like to use essential oils topically because they can enjoy the aroma. For this reason, essential oils can be applied behind the ears or on the wrists and palms. No matter what your reason is for applying essential oil on the skin, here are some of the best practices to follow.
Does It Need to be Diluted?
Before you apply an essential on the skin, read the usage instructions on its packaging to determine whether it needs to be diluted. There are three categories of essential oil in terms of whether they need to be diluted. The first category is the “neat” essential oils. These essential oils do not need to be diluted before they can be used for topical application. The second category consists of essential oils that have to be diluted for everyone to use. The last category consists of essential oils that should be diluted if the user has young or sensitive skin.
Diluting an essential oil does not reduce its effectiveness. Even if you are using essential oils in the “neat” category, you can still dilute them. In fact, one should always dilute essential oils if they are being applied for the first time.
Only Apply to Certain Parts of the Body
Due to how potent essential oils are, they should not be applied topically in sensitive areas or on sensitive skin. Instead, limit usage to certain parts of the body, such as:
- Face
- Temples
- Forehead
- Above the lips
- Neck
- Chest
- Base of the skull
- Wrists
- Palms
- Legs
- Abdomen
- Soles of the feet
In Case of a Reaction
While it is uncommon to have an adverse reaction to essential oils, it happens to some people. Some skin reactions include irritation, redness, and increased tenderness. When you try out a new essential oil, be sure to perform a patch test by applying a drop of the diluted essential oil to a patch of skin on the forearm. Leave the application for an hour to see if there is any reaction.
Plant Guru carries a wide range of essential oils, carrier oils, and incense. We pride ourselves in not only affordable prices, but also high quality products. If you are interested in essential oil topical application, feel free to browse through our selection or contact us to let us know how we can better serve your needs.