When using essential oils, it is important to dilute them in a carrier oil before applying them to your skin. Essential oils are very concentrated and can cause irritation if applied directly. Carrier oils help disperse and dilute the essential oils so they can be used safely and effectively.
What is a carrier oil?
Carrier oils, also known as base oils or vegetable oils, are used to dilute essential oils for topical use. They “carry” the essential oils onto the skin. Carrier oils do not contain a concentrated aroma like essential oils do. Rather, they provide a neutral base that allows the therapeutic compounds in essential oils to be safely absorbed.
Common carrier oils include:
- Sweet almond oil
- Apricot kernel oil
- Argan oil
- Avocado oil
- Coconut oil
- Grapeseed oil
- Jojoba oil
- Olive oil
- Rosehip seed oil
- Shea butter
These plant-based oils provide various benefits for skin and hair. They are emollient, meaning they smooth and soften skin. They also contain nutrients like vitamins A, D, E, and essential fatty acids. When used with essential oils, carrier oils help evenly distribute the oils over the skin’s surface while providing their own moisturizing and nourishing properties.
How much essential oil should be used in 1 oz of carrier oil?
When making your own essential oil blend, it’s important to follow the proper dilution guidelines. Essential oils are potent, so only a small amount is needed.
The standard dilution ratio is:
- 1% – 6 drops of essential oil per 1 oz of carrier oil
- 2% – 12 drops of essential oil per 1 oz of carrier oil
- 3% – 18 drops of essential oil per 1 oz of carrier oil
For a 1% dilution, you would add:
- 3 drops essential oil to 1⁄2 oz carrier oil
- 6 drops essential oil to 1 oz carrier oil
- 12 drops essential oil to 2 oz carrier oil
This 1-3% dilution range is recommended for adult skin. Children and those with sensitive skin may need a lower dilution of 0.5-1%.
You can adjust the concentration up or down based on your needs and skin sensitivity. However, more is not always better when it comes to essential oils. Sticking within the recommended guidelines will allow you to safely enjoy their benefits.
Why diluting essential oils is important
Diluting essential oils before use is strongly advised for a few key reasons:
- Avoid skin irritation: Undiluted essential oils can cause skin irritation, redness, burning, or sensitivity reactions in those with delicate skin.
- Improve absorption: Carrier oils help spread essential oils evenly over the skin’s surface and allow them to fully absorb.
- Extend shelf life: Essential oils will oxidize more quickly at full concentration. Diluting them helps make them last longer.
Always do a patch test before wider application. Put a diluted drop on your arm and wait 24 hours to see if any reaction occurs.
Tips for diluting essential oils
Follow these tips when diluting essential oils for topical use:
- Only use pure, high-quality essential oils intended for aromatherapy.
- Choose a suitable carrier oil for your skin type and needs.
- Follow the proper dilution ratios, starting low and gradually increasing if needed.
- Add the essential oils to the carrier oil drop by drop and stir or shake well to mix.
- Store diluted blends in dark glass bottles away from light and heat to maintain freshness.
- Label bottles with contents and dilution percentage.
How to do a patch test
It’s important to do a skin patch test before trying any new essential oil blend:
- Clean and dry a small area of skin on your inner arm near the elbow.
- Apply a diluted drop of the essential oil blend.
- Cover the spot with a bandage and leave it for 24 hours.
- If no irritation or redness occurs after 24 hours, the oil should be safe to use. If you see any reaction, rinse immediately.
This test reduces the risk of having an allergic reaction or sensitivity to an oil. Even if certain oils are generally safe, everyone’s skin is different.
Blending different essential oils
You can blend two or more essential oils together in a carrier oil for added benefits. Some popular combinations include:
- Lavender + eucalyptus + lemon – stress relief
- Tea tree + lavender – skin soothing
- Rosemary + peppermint – energizing
- Frankincense + geranium – anti-aging
Keep the total essential oil concentration within the 1-3% dilution range when blending.
How much diluted oil should you use at one time?
When applying your diluted essential oil blend, use only what you need. As a general rule of thumb:
- Facial oils: Use 3-5 drops massaged gently into clean, dry skin.
- Body oils: Use 5-10 drops smoothed over arms, legs, feet, hands, chest, back, etc.
A little goes a long way since essential oils are highly concentrated. Start with less and add more as desired to avoid using too much.
Signs you’ve used too much essential oil
Using too much undiluted essential oil can cause skin irritation. Signs of sensitivity may include:
- Redness
- Itching or burning
- Rash or hives
- Swelling
- Blistering
Discontinue use immediately if any of these reactions occur. Rinse skin with cool water and apply a cold compress. Seek medical help if symptoms persist or worsen.
How to store diluted essential oil blends
Store diluted essential oils properly to maintain their potency:
- Keep in dark glass bottles (amber or cobalt blue) to limit light exposure.
- Use bottles with tight-sealing tops.
- Store in a cool, dry place away from heat and sunlight.
- Refrigeration can help extend shelf life but is not required.
- Only make as much as you expect to use within 1-2 years.
Write the blend name, carrier oil used, and dilution percentage on the label so you know what’s inside. Oxidation can cause oils to lose effectiveness over time. Proper storage helps preserve the active compounds.
Essential oil safety precautions
Enjoy essential oils safely by following these general guidelines:
- Always dilute essential oils before applying to skin.
- Perform a patch test on new oils to check for reactions.
- Use smaller dilutions on children and elderly individuals.
- Avoid contact with eyes, nose, ears, and other mucous membranes.
- Stop use if any irritation develops.
- Consult your doctor before use if pregnant, nursing, or on medication.
- Store essential oils securely out of reach of children and pets.
Essential oils offer many benefits when used properly. Following the recommended dilution ratios and handling practices will allow you to incorporate them into your routines safely.
Common essential oils and uses
Here is a summary of popular essential oils and their notable uses when diluted in a carrier oil:
| Essential Oil | Uses |
|---|---|
| Lavender | Relaxation, stress relief, sleep aid |
| Lemon | Energizing, immunity boost, detoxification |
| Peppermint | Nausea, headache relief, mental focus |
| Rosemary | Memory booster, pain relief, hair growth |
| Tea tree | Skin cleansing, acne treatment, wound healing |
| Eucalyptus | Congestion, coughs, colds, joint pain |
| Bergamot | Stress, anxiety, depression, mood booster |
| Frankincense | Anti-aging, wound healing, immune booster |
| Ylang ylang | Lowers blood pressure, improves mood |
Always dilute essential oils properly before use and discontinue if any irritation develops. Consult an aromatherapy practitioner if you have questions or need guidance on usage.
Frequently asked questions
What carrier oils can I use to dilute essential oils?
Common carrier oils include coconut, sweet almond, olive, avocado, argan, jojoba, grapeseed, and more. Choose an oil appropriate for your skin type. Oils like jojoba and argan are great for acne-prone skin, while olive and coconut work well for dry skin.
Can I apply essential oils directly to my skin?
No, essential oils should always be diluted before applying to skin. Pure essential oils are highly concentrated and can cause reactions if used undiluted. Diluting them reduces this risk while allowing you to still receive their benefits.
Where should I do a patch test?
Perform a skin patch test inside your elbow or upper arm. Apply a diluted drop, cover with a bandage, and check for reactions after 24 hours before wider use.
How long do diluted essential oils last?
Properly stored diluted essential oils can last 1-2 years. Oxidation causes their quality to degrade over time. Keep blends in dark glass bottles in cool, dry conditions to maximize shelf life.
Can I use essential oils in my bath water?
Yes, add 5-10 drops of essential oil blended with a carrier like milk or Epsom salts to bath water. Stir to disperse evenly. Soaking allows absorption through the skin.
Conclusion
Diluting essential oils with a carrier oil before use enables you to safely enjoy their therapeutic benefits. Follow the recommended 1-3% dilution ratios to avoid skin sensitivity. Test new oils on a small patch of skin first to check for reactions. Store diluted blends properly to maintain potency. When used with proper care and precautions, essential oils can be a valuable addition to skincare, baths, massages, and more.
