How to use essential oils
There are so many ways you can use essential oils not only around the home but out and about, especially when you need that extra boost of well-being during the day.
The most common way is by inhalation from the bottle or adding them to electric diffusers and oil burners. But the best way to enjoy the benefits of these beautiful essences is by applying them to the skin.
When using essential oils topically, you are allowing their beneficial properties to penetrate the skin and enter the blood flow. To do this safely, you should dilute them into a 'carrier' or base oil.
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What is a carrier or base oil?
A 'Carrier' is a name for any base ingredient used to mix essential oils in before use, such as cream, oil or gel. Its job is to carry the essential oils through and into the skin safely.
Essential oils are concentrated, so if you apply them to the skin undiluted, the risk of getting a skin reaction or sensitivity is extremely high. Adding them to a carrier takes that risk away. It's also a good idea to do a patch test before use, especially if you have hyper-sensitive skin.
The most popular Carrier oils used in Aromatherapy are Jojoba, Sweet Almond and Grapeseed, but there are other base products such as unscented body creams, shower gels, bubble bath, or even your everyday olive oil.
how to dilute essential oils
Mix essential oils with the carrier thoroughly using the simple guide below.
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A 2% dilution is the common dilution for Adults with no skin sensitivities.
For face application, delicate skin, or children over 2 years old the 1% dilution should be used.
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For anyone with sensitive skin, it is advisable to carry out a patch test on the underside of your arm first before use. All of my essential oil blends come in a box and contain a leaflet with dilution guide.
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what is a patch test?
Because everyone's skin is different, a patch test is your way of finding out if a product is safe for you (personally) to use on the skin before applying it to a larger area of the body.
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How to do a patch test?
To carry out your own patch test, dilute the oils as above, and apply a small amount of the diluted blend to the underside (thin skin) of the forearm, waiting 24 - 48 hours for any side effects. If you do experience any irritation, redness or itching within that time, wash the area with soap and water and discontinue use.
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If you are still unsure about using Essential oils on your skin, or you have any medical skin conditions, then like all skincare products you should always ask the advice of your GP.
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For some easy ways you can incorporate our blends into your daily routine, I have put together a blog post with some of my favourite ways to use essential oils in the home.