Essential Oil Safety Guidelines
Your safety is our priority. Learn essential safety protocols, contraindications, and best practices for responsible essential oil use. Always consult healthcare professionals for specific medical conditions.
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Emergency: For immediate medical emergencies, call your local emergency number.
⚠️ General Safety Guidelines
Essential safety rules everyone should follow when using essential oils
💧Always Dilute for Topical Use
High Risk
Never apply undiluted essential oils directly to skin
- •Use 1-2% dilution for adults (5-10 drops per ounce of carrier oil)
- •Use 0.5-1% dilution for children over 2 years
- •Use 0.25% dilution for elderly or sensitive individuals
- •Some oils like lavender and tea tree can be used neat in small amounts
🧪Perform Patch Tests
Medium Risk
Test for allergic reactions before first use
- •Apply diluted oil to inside of wrist or elbow
- •Wait 24-48 hours to check for reactions
- •Look for redness, itching, swelling, or irritation
- •Discontinue use if any adverse reaction occurs
👁️Avoid Sensitive Areas
High Risk
Keep oils away from eyes, ears, nose, and mucous membranes
- •Never apply oils near or in the eyes
- •Avoid nasal passages and ear canals
- •Do not use on broken or damaged skin
- •Be careful around genital areas
🔒Proper Storage
High Risk
Store safely away from children and pets
- •Use child-resistant caps on all bottles
- •Store in locked cabinets if necessary
- •Keep in original labeled containers
- •Store away from food and medications
☀️ Photosensitive Oils - Sun Safety
| Oil | Sensitivity | Wait Time | UV Protection | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bergamot | High | 12-18 hours | SPF 30+ required | Most photosensitive oil - use evening only |
| Lemon | High | 12 hours | SPF 30+ required | Cold-pressed more photosensitive than steam-distilled |
| Lime | High | 12 hours | SPF 30+ required | Can cause severe burns in sunlight |
| Grapefruit | Medium | 8-12 hours | SPF 15+ required | Less severe but still significant risk |
| Orange (Sweet) | Low-Medium | 6-8 hours | SPF 15+ recommended | Steam-distilled versions safer |
Daily Safety Checklist
✅
Before Use
Check dilution ratios
Read safety warnings
🧪
Patch Test
Test new oils first
Wait 24-48 hours
👀
Monitor
Watch for reactions
Stop if irritation occurs
🔒
Store Safely
Away from children
Away from pets
Expert Consultation
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