Ebooks MY/SG/PH Topical Use of Essential Oils | Page 9

Usage
The key to using essential oils safely is to always observe proper usage suggestions. Whether you are using an essential
oil aromatically or topically, ensuring that you use the correct amount will allow you to remain within the limits of safe use.
With topical use, there is always a risk for skin irritation or sensitivity, especially when you consider that each essential
oil has a different chemical profile, and each person has different skin sensitivity levels, skin conditions, and preferences.
Remember that essential oil use will always depend on the age, size, health
status, and personal skin sensitivity of the individual. If you have specific
concerns about your skin, it is always a good idea to consult with your physician
Topical Usage
before using essential oils topically.
When using an essential oil topically for the first time, always start with the
• Start with 1–2 drops and increase as
necessary
lowest possible amount—one to two drops. Once you see how your body reacts
to the small dose, you can increase the amount as necessary to help achieve
a desired benefit. Because essential oils are so potent, it is always a good idea
• Repeat dose every 4–6 hours as
needed
to use a few small amount periodically throughout the day, rather than a single
large amount all at once. For application use, a dose can be repeated every four to six hours as needed.
Sensitivity
Because each individual has different sensitivities, health concerns, skin conditions, and preferences, it is possible for
essential oils to cause a sensitivity response. Children or those with sensitive skin are often more sensitive to developing a
sensitivity, and should take extra safety precautions when using essential oils topically.
Sensitivity test
When applying an essential oil for the first time, it is a good idea to first
conduct a sensitivity test to see how your body and skin react to the
chemical structure of the oil. You can conduct a sensitivity test by
applying a small dab of the essential oil (mixed with a carrier oil) to
an inconspicuous area of the skin. Continue to check the area each
hour for a few hours to make sure that no sensitivity or irritation has
occurred.
• Diffuse essential oils during a bubble bath to create a
Sun
sensitivity
spa-like
environment
•
Apply
oil
to a cotton
and
place essential
in the air oils,
vents
of your car citrus oils,
It is important
to note ball
that
some
particularly
Diffuse sensitivity
essential oils
in the
car during
road or trips
to create light
a after topical
can • cause
when
exposed
to sun
ultraviolet
calming environment
application. Because citrus oils have photosensitive compounds, exposure to
sunlight, UV light, or sunlamps for up to 12 hours after application can cause
•
Diffuse
essential
oils
to help
promote
a relaxing
sensitivity on the skin. Essential oils that pose
a risk
for sun
sensitivity will typically include a warning or caution, so be sure
environment that will promote restful sleep
to carefully read oil labels
before
application.
• Diffuse
essential
oils when studying for a test to help
promote focus and motivation