The popularity of essential oils is increasing along with time. That's mainly due to their therapeutic benefits. Derived from plants, essential oils can be used in a variety of ways - from diffusing them aromatically to diluting them and applying them topically. However, not all essential oils are suitable for sensitive skin types.
Using the wrong oils can cause irritation, inflammation, or even trigger an allergic reaction in those with sensitivity. When using essential oils on sensitive skin, it's important to choose the right oils and always dilute them properly before applying them to the skin.
How to Use Essential Oils for Sensitive Skin
There are a few recommended ways to use essential oils safely if you have sensitive skin. Let's explore the most common approaches out of them.
Massage Oils
The risk of having an allergic reaction to massage oil is very small, but something spa owners and therapists need to keep in mind nevertheless. In fact, according to Francois Muguet, the founder of massage oil manufacturer , you're more likely to see allergic reactions happen with therapists than their customers.This may be due to repeated or excessive exposure to certain substances such as strong scents in the massage oils. Mr Muguet recommends using a wide variety of different scents and ensuring that they are not highly concentrated to minimize risk of an adverse reaction.
Diluted Topical Application
Essential oils are sometimes used topically on the skin for their therapeutic properties. When applied to the skin, essential oils can help reduce inflammation, soothe skin irritations and help with skin healing. For example, tea tree oil has antibacterial properties, making it effective for treating acne acne, while lavender oil is known for its ability to soothe pain and treat minor burns. These essential oils can be applied directly onto sensitive skin but must first be diluted with a carrier oil like coconut, jojoba, or almond oil. As a general rule, essential oils should be diluted at 0.5-1% for adult skin. Doing a patch test before wider application is also advised.
Best Essential Oils for Sensitive Skin
When searching for essential oils for sensitive skin, it's best to stick to gentle, soothing, anti-inflammatory oils. Here are a few of the best essential oils for sensitive skin.
Roman Chamomile OilWith its low dermal irritancy and anti-inflammatory properties, Roman chamomile is commonly regarded as one of the best essential oils for sensitive skin. It calms redness, soothes irritation, and may even help to heal rashes or breakouts.
Lavender OilUniversally known for its relaxation and skin healing benefits, lavender oil is well-tolerated by most people with sensitive skin. It eases inflammation, irritation, and dry patches for a more balanced complexion.
German Chamomile OilEven more potent than its Roman counterpart, German chamomile oil works to decrease skin sensitivity while accelerating healing of rashes, burns, cuts, scrapes, or sunburn. Its chamazulene content targets inflammation at a cellular level.
Rose OilRose oil balances, nourishes, and moisturizes sensitive, delicate skin prone to redness and burning. Its floral scent also provides an uplifting aromatherapy experience.
Essential Oils to Avoid with Sensitive SkinWhile many essential oils can be appropriate for sensitive skin if properly diluted and patched tested, there are certain oils that should typically be avoided:
Citrus OilsFresh, citrusy oils like lemon, grapefruit, and lime contain photosensitizing molecules that react with UV rays and cause pigmentation, burning or rashes. Their acidic nature can also irritate.
Cinnamon OilCinnamon leaf or bark oil can be an irritant for sensitive skin, causing redness, dryness, stinging/burning and even blistering if used undiluted or in high concentration.
Peppermint OilThe menthol naturally present in peppermint oil can feel cool and soothing at first but quickly causes stinging, inflammation, and hives-like outbreaks for those with sensitivity.
