Glossary
Guidelines for the safe use of concentrated plant extracts in skincare. Essential oils are potent botanical compounds that require proper dilution, patch testing, and awareness of photosensitivity, allergen potential, and contraindications for safe topical application.
Essential oils are not gentle herbal infusions. They are highly concentrated extracts: it takes roughly 250 pounds of lavender flowers to produce 1 pound of lavender essential oil, and 10,000 pounds of rose petals for 1 pound of rose essential oil. This extreme concentration means that components present at harmless levels in a whole plant become potent enough to cause skin burns, allergic reactions, and chemical sensitization when applied undiluted.
For adult skin, the general safe dilution range is 1% to 3% essential oil in a carrier oil or product base. This translates to approximately 6 to 18 drops of essential oil per ounce of carrier. For facial products, 0.5% to 1% is more appropriate (3 to 6 drops per ounce). For children, elderly individuals, and people with sensitive skin, 0.5% or less is recommended. Our products are formulated within these evidence-based dilution ranges.
Several essential oils, particularly cold-pressed citrus oils (bergamot, lemon, lime, grapefruit, bitter orange), contain furanocoumarins that react with UV light, causing phototoxic burns that result in severe blistering and long-lasting dark pigmentation. If a product contains these oils, avoid sun exposure on treated areas for 12 to 18 hours after application, or choose steam-distilled versions of these oils (which do not contain furanocoumarins).
Essential oils contain dozens to hundreds of individual chemical compounds. Some of these (linalool, limonene, citral, eugenol, cinnamal) are documented allergens that can cause contact dermatitis, especially with repeated exposure. Fragrance allergy typically develops after a period of uneventful use, making it unpredictable. Always patch test new products containing essential oils, and be aware that "natural" does not mean "non-allergenic."
No. Undiluted essential oils should never be applied directly to the skin without proper knowledge and intent. Even oils generally considered safe (lavender, tea tree) can cause burns, sensitization, and allergic reactions when used undiluted. Always dilute in a carrier oil or use within a properly formulated product.
Many essential oils are contraindicated during pregnancy. Clary sage, rosemary, cinnamon bark, juniper, and several others may stimulate uterine contractions or cross the placental barrier. Consult your healthcare provider before using any essential oil products during pregnancy. Our unscented product line avoids this concern entirely.
Keep Learning
Browse hundreds of terms covering honey, beekeeping, and natural skincare.