Aromatherapy Skincare: Can Essential Oils Be Used Safely On The Skin?

What is an essential oil?

Essential oils are natural extracts from plants, containing their aromatic and therapeutic properties. These tiny, oil-soluble molecules are highly concentrated and easily penetrate the skin, making them ideal for use in skincare.

Essential oils and skincare

Essential oils are more than just fragrant ingredients - they're potent compounds packed with skincare benefits. In skincare, they’re often referred to as aromaceuticals.

Benefits of essential oils

• Hydration: Help moisturise dry and mature skin.
• Balance: Regulate oil production in oily and combination skin.
• Calming effects: Soothe inflamed or irritated skin.
• Anti-bacterial protection: Prevent acne by fighting bacteria.
• Anti-oxidant properties: Rejuvenate and protect skin from free radical damage.
• Healing and repair: Stimulate tissue regeneration, making them great for scars.

Common skincare essential oils include lavender, frankincense, neroli, rose, and geranium.

In addition to their physical benefits, essential oils can also impact your emotions. Some oils uplift and energise, while others calm and relax - making your skincare routine a holistic experience.

Essential oil safety: how to use on your skin

Essential oils are highly concentrated and should always be diluted before use. Applying them directly to your skin can cause irritation or even allergic reactions. Follow these steps for safe use:

Dilute with a carrier oil

Mix essential oils with a neutral carrier oil like jojoba or almond oil. This ensures even application and safety.

Follow dilution guidelines

Use a 1% dilution for facial application. Dilutions ranging from 3% to 5% are less common and are generally reserved for clinical treatments conducted by trained aromatherapists.

Patch test

Always test a small amount on your skin to check for reactions. Avoid using essential oils on damaged or diseased skin and NEVER apply essential oils neat on the skin.

Measure precisely

Avoid using drops to measure essential oils, as it can lead to inaccurate dosages.

Essential oil safety precautions

Before using any essential oil, check its safety guidelines. Some oils may cause:

Phototoxicity: Increased sensitivity to sunlight.

Skin sensitisation: Allergic reactions over time.

Irritation: Especially on sensitive or broken skin.

Certain oils should also be avoided during pregnancy or with specific medical conditions. Always consult safety data or seek advice from a trained aromatherapist.

Why buy aromatherapy skincare from trusted brands?

For peace of mind, consider buying products from reputable brands that follow strict EU or UK regulations. At Amaranthine, I create high-performance, natural skin care products infused with essential oils. All products are designed to benefit both your skin and your mood, with safety as a priority.

Conclusion

Yes, aromatherapy essential oils can be safely used on the skin - when used responsibly. Dilute them properly, patch test, and follow safety guidelines to unlock their full potential. Whether you’re looking to hydrate, calm, or rejuvenate your skin, these aromatic elixirs offer natural, effective solutions.

Want to dive deeper into aromatherapy skincare? Check out my article on how essential oils work in skincare, especially for acne-prone skin.

References

Essential Oil Safety by Robert Tisserand and Tony Balacs

The Encyclopedia of Essential Oils by Julia Lawless

Diploma in Clinical Aromatherapy Course Notes by Aromatherapy Scotland