Pure essential oils are concentrated plant extracts. A single drop can contain a lot of active compounds, which is why they smell so strong and why they should be used with care. Follow this guide and you can enjoy them with confidence.
The golden rule: dilute before skin use
Never apply essential oil neat (undiluted) to skin. Mix it with a carrier oil first such as coconut, almond, jojoba or sesame oil.
Simple dilution chart
| Strength | Drops per 30 ml carrier oil | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| 0.5% | 3 drops | Face, sensitive skin |
| 1% | 6 drops | Everyday body massage |
| 2% | 12 drops | Short-term use on small areas |
When in doubt, start at the lower end.
How to do a patch test
- Mix one drop of oil with half a teaspoon of carrier oil.
- Apply a small amount to your inner forearm.
- Cover and wait 24 hours.
- If you see redness, itching or irritation, wash with plain carrier oil, then soap, and do not use it.
Know your oil
- Citrus oils like lemon can make skin more sensitive to sunlight. Avoid sun on treated skin for 12 hours after applying a diluted blend.
- Strong oils like eucalyptus and peppermint are best kept away from the faces of babies and young children.
- Hair oils: rosemary is popular for the scalp, but always dilute it in a carrier oil first.
Who should take extra care?
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women
- Babies and young children
- People with asthma, epilepsy, allergies or sensitive skin
- Households with pets, especially cats
If any of these apply, speak to your doctor or vet before using essential oils.
Do not ingest
Essential oils are for aroma and external use. Do not swallow them or add them to food or drinks.
How to store your oils
- Keep bottles tightly closed in a cool, dark place, away from heat and sunlight.
- Store upright and out of reach of children and pets.
- Dark glass bottles protect the oil. Most pure oils keep their best quality for around one to three years.
How to spot a good essential oil
Look for 100% pure oil, the botanical (Latin) name on the label, a clear batch or expiry date and no added synthetic fragrance. Be wary of oils with a very low price for a rare ingredient such as sandalwood or rose.
Start with trusted favourites like lavender, lemon and rosemary, or browse the full pure essential oils collection.
This guide is for general information and is not medical advice.