Some Essential Oils are considered HOT OILS since they have a potent chemistry, and should always be well diluted with a carrier oil before EVERY USE when APPLIED TOPICALLY. These oils would include:
CASSIA
CINNAMON
OREGANO
THYME
CLOVE
WINTERGREEN
When using any Essential Oils from this list, consider diluting them a little more. These Essential Oils can feel “hot” or have a strong warming sensation when applied topically or will be “spicy hot” if taken straight internally.
SENSITIVE OILS are Essential Oils that should be diluted before use on young, old, or SENSITIVE skin. These oils include:
BERGAMOT
BLACK PEPPER
PEPPERMINT
EUCALYPTUS
GINGER
Use the previous guidelines for proper dilution ratios when using these Essential Oils on babies, young children, the ELDERLY, or those with generally sensitive skin. They may feel WARM, but usually not HOT when applied topically.
It is NOT recommended to apply any HOT or SENSITIVE OILS to the face.
Seniors can have different skin sensitivity thresholds depending on their age, health, and the Essential Oils being used.
Essential Oils can cause sensitivity reactions in SOME seniors. But having a TOPICAL SENSITIVITY does not mean that the person will be sensitive to all application methods. Internal and aromatic use can still be tried by those with topical sensitivities.
It is recommended to conduct a simple skin test before beginning topical use of a new Essential Oil on older skin. Mix one drop of Essential Oil with six to ten drops of a carrier oil that you have previously used successfully and apply to inner arm, thigh, or abdomen. Allow it to absorb completely, and check the area multiple times over the next several hours.
If any redness, pain, itchiness, swelling, or other adverse symptoms result, you may have a sensitivity to that oil and should DISCONTINUE USE IMMEDIATELY. It would be best to avoid topical use of this oil in the future.
The irritated area can be soothed with a vegetable oil such as Fractionated Coconut Oil. Gently wipe the area with a soft cloth and carrier oil to draw out and remove as much Essential Oil as possible. Not water: water will drive the Essential Oil in, instead of drawing it out.
The skin will need time to calm down, which may take hours, days, or weeks, depending on the severity of the body’s sensitivity response and the amount of oil used. Seek immediate medical attention if the sensitivity reaction is severe, or worsens over time.
One of the many benefits of Essential Oils is that they can share many of their therapeutic properties, and may not induce the same sensitivity reaction.
In other words, you can try using different Essential Oils with a similar chemical profile. If you have experienced a sensitivity to any oil in the past, always do a skin test first or use a small dose and dilute any oil you are trying for the first time.
NOTE: Did you know you can take an entire Class on the subject of ESSENTIAL OIL DANGERS AND PRECAUTIONS? Ask for details if interested.
QUESTION – WHICH CARRIER OIL IS YOUR FAVORITE FOR DILUTING ESSENTIAL OILS?
