I get a ton of questions about essential oils and would like to share some insights. I trained in a Master Essential Oil safety class at the Tisserand Institute in Europe. Unlike the U.S., where essential oils aren’t regulated and guidelines can be a bit loose, Europe has strict requirements based on thorough testing.
First off, it's important to note that fragrance oils and essential oils are very different. Fragrance oils are synthetic and created purely for their scent, while essential oils are derived from natural plants and have therapeutic properties. This means their uses and effects can be quite different.
Fragrance and Its Complexity
Fragrance oils, unlike essential oils, are synthetic and often composed to hundreds of different chemical ingredients. These ingredients are blended to create specific scents, but the complexity and synthetic nature of these fragrances can raise some concerns.
Potential Toxicity
One key concern with synthetic fragrances is the potential for toxicity. Many of the chemicals used in fragrances are known to be volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can easily evaporate into the air. This is why you often notice a lingering scent when you use products with synthetic fragrances.
Common Questions I Receive about Essential Oils:
Are eucalyptus and peppermint safe for children under 3? It's best to avoid using these essential oils. Actually, I recommend being cautious with kids under the age of 5.
My baby/child suffers from eczema. What products do you suggest? I’ve created a Nourishing Eye Balm that works wonders. This creamy balm can double as an eczema soother for kids and contains no essential oils.
Hydrosols are a better option for young children or those with sensitive skin. When using essential oils on yourself or someone else, ALWAYS dilute the essential oil in a carrier oil.
A Note on Citrus Essential Oils:
Citrus essential oils can sometimes cause photosensitivity, making the skin more sensitive to sunlight. Whether this happens depends on the specific citrus oil and the percentage used in the formula. However, bergapten-free citrus oils are safe for use without causing photosensitivity.
Non-Photosensitive Citrus Oils: These are generally safe for skincare:
Sweet Orange (Citrus sinensis): Expressed sweet orange oil is not phototoxic.
Grapefruit (Citrus x paradisi): Distilled grapefruit oil is not phototoxic. Learn about the extraction of essential oils.
Mandarin (Citrus reticulata): Generally considered non-phototoxic.
Lemon (Citrus limon): Distilled lemon oil is not phototoxic.
Photosensitive Citrus Oils: Use with caution, especially on sun-exposed skin:
Bergamot (Citrus bergamia): Cold-pressed bergamot oil is phototoxic, but bergapten-free bergamot oil is fine.
Bitter Orange (Citrus aurantium var. amara): Cold-pressed bitter orange oil is phototoxic.
Lime (Citrus aurantifolia): Cold-pressed lime oil is phototoxic.
Even if an essential oil is non-phototoxic, always do a patch test before use, especially if you have sensitive skin. And remember to dilute the essential oil before applying it to your skin.
I hope this helps clear up some questions about essential oils. When used properly, essential oils can be one of Mother Nature’s most potent medicines.
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