Dermal or Topical Use

Dermal is the application on the skin of the essential oil diluted in a carrier (fixed, base) oil which are transferred to the bloodstream through the circulatory system. The rate of absorption is affected by age, health, skin condition, dilution, and carrier oil. Dermal application is perfect for things such as massage, reflexology, aches and pains, and skin problem.

• Always use essential oils diluted in a carrier (fixed or base) oil to avoid health issues and skin irritation or sensitization. The dilution ratio should take into account the age of the person, the oils used, the purpose, and the method by which the essential oils are being applied.

• Always perform a skin test before using an essential oil on the skin and especially if you have allergies. Apply the essential oil in a weak dilution with carrier oil on a cotton swab. Lightly touch the skin in an area either under the arm, inside of the elbow, back of knee or wrist. Cover the area and leave the area unwashed for 24 to 48 hours. Check for an allergic sensitivity or irritation. If there is any reaction such as itching or redness discontinue using the oil. In the event of a dermal irritation, apply a small amount of vegetable oil or cream to the area affected to calm the irritation. Do not wash or rinse the area with water. Seek medical attention, as appropriate.

• Do not use essential oils on damaged, diseased, or inflamed skin, which may be more sensitive to dermal reactions which are likely to result in sensitization reactions.

• Do not use photosensitizing essential oil prior to direct sun exposure or exposure to UV light sources such as tanning beds. Use phototoxic essential oil at night or wait at least 6-8 hours before direct exposure to sunlight or tanning beds. A phototoxic reaction, in most cases, will slowly fade over time, but in some cases they are permanent. Consult with your health care provider, if you use certain drugs, such as tetracycline, which can increase the photosensitivity of the skin, increasing the harmful effects of photosensitizing essential oils. 

• Do not use dermal irritants. Dermal irritants produce an immediate effect of irritation on the skin and present on the skin as blotchy or redness, which may be painful. The severity of the reaction will depend on the concentration (dilution) applied.

• Do not use skin sensitizers. Dermal sensitization is a type of allergic reaction. It occurs on first exposure to a substance, however, the noticeable effect on the skin will be slight or absent. Subsequent exposure to the essential oil, or to a similar essential oil,  may produce a severe inflammatory reaction. The reaction will present on the skin as blotchy or redness, which may be painful and this area will be sensitive to the essential oil(s) for many years.

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Massage

Dilution ratio: 1 - 2.5% dilution (6 -15 drops per 1 ounce). Add to unscented massage lotions, gels, and creams, along with a small amount of vitamin E or other natural preservatives to protect the product if it is to be stored. Shake before use.

 

Skin Care

Dilution Ratio:

• Sensitive skin: 0.5 to 1 percent dilution (3 to 6 drops per ounce) 

• Normal, healthy skin: 1 to 2.5 percent dilution (6 to 15 drops per ounce)

 

 Facial and Body Oil. Place the essential oil in a bottle and then add the oil. Shake vigorously for two or three minutes.

 

Facial and Body Cream. Add essential oils to cream base and stir all ingredients together until the essential oils are thoroughly combined. Note: A lower dilution ratio may be necessary with some creams to maintain consistency.

 

Facial Gel

Dilution Ratio:

• Sensitive skin: 1% dilution (6 drops per ounce) 

• Normal, healthy skin: 1- 2.5% dilution (15 drops per ounce) 

• Wound healing: 2 - 5% dilution (15-30 drops per ounce)

Add essential oils to aloe vera gel. Shake vigorously for two or three minutes.

 

Roll-on

In a 10-ml glass roll-on bottle, add 8 - 10 drops of essential oil, and fill the bottle with a carrier oil. To use, roll the bottle over the temples, behind the ears, at side of the neck, over the inner elbow, inside the wrist, at the back of the knees, around the ankles, and on the bottom of the feet. 

 

Bath

Add 5 - 10 drops of a mild, nonirritating oil to 1 teaspoon of a dispersing agent or emulsifier and mix together. Once the tub is filled with water, add the essential oil mixture and swirl the water. Enjoy the bath for about 10 minutes. 

Note: Dispersing agents include Castile soap, milk, honey, glycerin, Solubol or Disper, etc. If using a carrier oil or other high slip dispersing agent, please use extreme caution as the tub will become slippery and pose an unsafe situation.

 

Compress

In a bowl, add 5 - 10 drops of essential oils to 2 cups of water. Stir the water. Soak a clean, lint-free cloth in the water and then apply it to the affected area; repeating until the water either cools or warms. As a general rule, use cold water for inflammation, cool or lukewarm water where there is great heat (i.e. fever), and heat when there is tightness and a lack of flexibility. Do not heat the water in the microwave.