As mentioned in my previous blog, essential oils are highly concentrated substances that may cause adverse skin reactions if they are not properly diluted before applying to the skin. For this reason, it is a good practice to follow general dilution guidelines. These guidelines are safe for many essential oils; however, there are some essential oils that require an even greater dilution. It is also important to know that some essential oils should not be used for children of a certain age, pregnant or breastfeeding women, the elderly, or individuals with compromised immune systems.

GENERAL essential oil (EO) dilution guidelines are as follows:

1% DILUTION = 6 DROPS EO PER ONE OUNCE OF CARRIER.

For Children 6+, Pregnant & Breastfeeding Women, The Elderly, Facial Application, Sensitive Skin, and Compromised Immune Systems.

(Some essential oils are unsafe for children under the age of ten)

2% DILUTION = 12 DROPS EO PER ONE OUNCE OF CARRIER

For Normal Healthy Adults, Daily Skin Care, and Massage.

3% DILUTION = 18 DROPS EO PER ONE OUNCE OF CARRIER

For Short Term Pain or Injury.

5% DILUTION = 30 DROPS PER ONE OUNCE OF CARRIER

For Short Term Pain or Injury.

Keep in mind that some essential oils have special dilution needs to avoid the risk of skin allergies or phototoxicity. A reputable essential oil supplier should be willing to provide you with safety information on any essential oil they sell.

The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy is a reputable site for information on essential oil safe applications.  Click on the link below to learn more on methods of application and dilution rates.