How to Use Essential Oils Safely

Essential oils are powerful, natural, and wonderfully versatile — but they're also highly concentrated plant extracts that deserve a little respect. Used correctly, they're safe and effective for the whole family. Used carelessly, they can cause skin irritation, sensitisation, or worse. The good news? Staying safe is simple once you know the basics.

Here's everything you need to know to use essential oils safely and confidently.

1. Always Dilute Before Applying to Skin

This is the single most important rule in aromatherapy. Essential oils are highly concentrated — it can take hundreds of kilograms of plant material to produce just one small bottle. Applying them undiluted (also called "neat") to skin can cause irritation, burns, or long-term sensitisation.

Always mix essential oils with a carrier oil before topical use. Good carrier oils include:

• Jojoba oil
• Sweet almond oil
• Coconut oil
• Grapeseed oil
• Rosehip oil

Safe dilution ratios

• Adults (general use): 2–3 drops essential oil per teaspoon (5ml) of carrier oil (2% dilution)
• Adults (facial use): 1 drop per teaspoon (1% dilution)
• Children aged 6–12: 1 drop per teaspoon (1% dilution)
• Children under 6 and elderly: consult a qualified aromatherapist

2. Do a Patch Test First

Even diluted oils can cause reactions in sensitive individuals. Before using a new oil on a larger area of skin, always do a patch test:

1. Dilute the oil as normal in a carrier oil
2. Apply a small amount to the inside of your wrist or elbow
3. Wait 24 hours
4. If there's no redness, itching, or irritation, it's safe to use more widely

3. Keep Away from Eyes and Mucous Membranes

Essential oils should never be applied near the eyes, inside the nose, ears, or on any mucous membranes. If accidental contact occurs, flush immediately with a carrier oil (not water — oil disperses essential oils more effectively) and seek medical advice if irritation persists.

4. Be Careful with Photosensitive Oils

Some essential oils — particularly citrus oils like Tangerine, Lemon, Bergamot, and Lime — are photosensitive. This means they can cause skin darkening or burns when exposed to sunlight after topical application. If you use these oils on your skin, avoid sun exposure on those areas for at least 12 hours, or use them only in the evening.

5. Use Caution Around Children and Pets

Children: Many oils are safe for children when properly diluted, but some — including Peppermint, Eucalyptus, and Rosemary — are not recommended for children under 10. Always research an oil before using it around or on children, and keep bottles out of reach.

Pets: Animals metabolise essential oils very differently to humans. Cats in particular are highly sensitive — many oils that are safe for humans are toxic to cats. Dogs can also be affected. If you have pets, diffuse in well-ventilated spaces, ensure your pet can leave the room, and research pet-safe oils before use.

6. Take Care During Pregnancy

Many essential oils are not recommended during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your midwife or a qualified aromatherapist before using essential oils.

7. Store Your Oils Correctly

Essential oils degrade when exposed to light, heat, and air. To preserve their quality and safety:

• Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight
• Keep lids tightly closed when not in use
• Use dark glass bottles (never plastic)
• Consider a dedicated storage box like a Mango Aromatherapy Box to keep your collection organised and protected

Most essential oils have a shelf life of 1–3 years. Citrus oils tend to oxidise faster — use within 12 months of opening.

8. Never Ingest Essential Oils

Unless under the direct supervision of a qualified medical professional or clinical aromatherapist, essential oils should never be taken internally. Even oils that seem harmless can be toxic when ingested.

A Note on Quality

Using high-quality, pure essential oils significantly reduces the risk of adverse reactions. At Vivid Aromas, we stock only 100% pure essential oils from trusted brands like Ancient Wisdom — free from synthetic additives, fillers, or dilutants. Always check that the oils you use are genuinely pure.

Follow these simple guidelines, and you'll be able to enjoy the full benefits of aromatherapy safely, confidently, and for years to come.