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Getting out in the sun with essential oils

A day in the kayak doesn’t have to end in sunburn. Safely use essential oils in the summer.

Most essential oils are safe in the sun,

but some are photo toxic.

Well–what does that mean?

It means that if you are in the house, and use a lotion that has certain oils in it, you have no worries. On the other hand, if you use that same type of lotion in the summer–let’s say after a shower. You decide to go out and weed the flower beds later—forgetting about the lotion. You could have a reaction to that lotion from being out in the sun.

What kind of reaction? How do I prevent it?

Redness, burns, itching, blisters, permanent skin discoloration are some of the reactions that you can have by not diluting the oils you use with enough carrier oil. Phototoxic oils have a maximum dermal level. If you use the product with levels over these amounts, it is best to avoid sun exposure for at least 12 to 18 hours after applying, unless you can cover your skin.

  • Bergamot (Citrus aurantium var. bergamia). Maximum dilution of .04% which equals 2 drops per 30 ml. of carrier oil.
  • Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi). Maximum dilution of 4% which equals 24 drops per 30 ml. of carrier oil.
  • Lemon (Citrus limon). Maximum dilution of 2% which equals 12 drops per 30 ml. of carrier oil.
  • Lime (Citrus aurantifolia). Maximum dilution of 0.7% which equals 4 drops per 30 ml. of carrier oil.
  • Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium). Maximum dilution of 1.25% which equals 7 drops per 30 ml. of carrier oil.
  • Laurel leaf (Laurus nobilis). Maximum dilution of 2% which equals 12 drops per 30 ml. of carrier oil.

The good news is not all citrus essential oils are phototoxic!
Those are: Bergamot (FCF), Sweet orange (Citrus sinensis), cold pressed Lemon (Citrus limon), distilled Lime (Citrus aurantifolia).


There is no risk in using a product that has been washed off the skin such as shampoo, soap or body wash.

So enjoy and have fun in the sun!

Happy blending,

Crystal.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”

Mt 11:28
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Read this — before you put essential oils in the tub!

It got me started on my aromatherapy journey, overhearing customers in pharmacies stating that they can just pour essential oils in the bathtub! Or rub it on their skin!

Below are products you cannot safely use with essential oils in the bath:

also from Robert Tisserand’s website–“Safety in the Bath.”

They are: Cornstarch, baking soda, epsom or regular salt, milk, witch hazel, aloe, glycerine, and alcohol.

Oil and water don’t mix.

If you want to use essential oils in the bath use Solubol.

For every 1 Tablespoon of product (jojoba, castile soap, shampoo or shower gel) mix in 5-20 drops of essential oils. Avoid any oil that is irritating to the skin, like peppermint, oregano or cinnamon to name a few. Do your research!

Robert Tisserand’s website has charts that are excellent on this subject. Also, the 2nd Edition of Essential Oil Safety is a must have for any aromatherapist.

Sign up for my FREE PDF an “Introduction to Aromatherapy”.

As always, Happy Blending,
Crystal.

God has made everything beautiful for its own time.

Ecclesiastes 3:11

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Skin safety and essential oils

About that essential oil you just bought…
Can you rub it on your skin?

Today let’s discuss essential oil safety.

In last weeks blog on dilution, you can see the percentages suggested for various ages, issues, and other concerns. There are guides to make a 30 ml. stock blend that can be used to make smaller roller bottles.

Start with the weakest dilution, such as 1%. If that dilution is not working after 2 weeks, then make a blend that is a 2% product. A 3% dilution is for a specific injury, such as a sprain or strain. It is important to use this dilution for a short duration (10-14 days), then go back to a 2% dilution for daily use. Remember, always start with the lowest percentage of essential oils in a blend. A little goes a long way to help modulate any concerns.
Discontinue use if the product causes redness, rash, or burning. If discomfort or irritation occurs, stop using the essential oil blend. Apply a carrier oil to the affected area. Never use water to flush the oil off the skin, as this may increase discomfort.

There are a few oils that can be used neat, that means straight out of the bottle. Those oils are tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia), lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), and helichrysum (Helichrysum italicum).

Tea tree is an antifungal, antiviral, antibacterial, and antimicrobial oil. The scent is sharp and medicinal. Lavender blends well and tones down some of the sharp properties of tea tree.
A dab of tea tree oil can be used to clear up acne.
Lavender can be used neat applied to the temples for headache relief. Try adding a drop to a tissue, inhale to relieve anxiety. Lavender can also be used on the skin for blemishes.
Helichrysum has skin healing properties that are excellent for wound application, apply a drop on a cut.


Next week, I’ll discuss safety in the bath with essential oils.

As always, sign up for my email list for a FREE INTRODUCTION TO AROMATHERAPY PDF.

Happy Blending,

Crystal

He fills my life with good things.

Psalm 103:5