Getting to Know Essential Oils
If you're working to live a cleaner lifestyle, you'll want everything that comes into contact with your skin to be free of unnecessary chemicals. When it comes to scented products like soaps, lotions, and bath bombs, steering clear of products that are highly scented can help you avoid skin irritation.
Some of our customers prefer products that are fragrance free or scented with essential oils. For people with dry itchy skin or eczema, these products may help with inflammation and dryness. A few of my favorite essentials oils smell great and can be beneficial for sensitive skin.
Lavender is one of the most popular essential oils. It's scent is said to be relaxing and it is considered one of the most well tolerated essential oils. For most people, it is not sensitizing and can be applied to skin directly. However, it is always a good idea to mix it with a carrier oil like sweet almond oil. You'll find it in almost all of our products including soaps, candles, bath salts, scented oils, and fragrance sticks.
Tea Tree is another favorite among essential oils. It has a medicinal aroma that some find strong. You'll see it listed on skin care products that support healing. Like lavender, it can be applied to blemishes using a one-to-one ratio of tea tree to a carrier oil. However, if it can be irritating for some people so a 1% - 5 % ratio may be a better place to start. Use it to control blemishes or to help soothe sore tired feet.
Sweet Orange essential oil smells like freshly peeled orange rind. It has a lovely, bright scent that makes you happy when you inhale. It has been used to help improve mood and help with sleep. Some also find it helpful for diminishing pimples and blackheads. This type of oil is in the citrus family and should not be applied all over if you're going to be in the sun.
Patchouli has a warming earthy scent. Many people associate its scent with the hippie-era. It is indeed still used to balance scents and make them last longer and it adds just the right amount of added depth when added to lavender or sweet orange oils. This oil should never be used neat or directly on skin. Always combine with a carrier oil before applying.
Peppermint essential oil has been associated with some health benefits. Some studies show that the oil can help with itchy skin, sore muscles, or even inhaled to help control nausea. Peppermint is one of the stronger essential oils and should only be used in low concentrations. Pregnant women and children should speak to their doctor before use.
For essential oils like sweet orange, patchouli, and peppermint, it is important to use a carrier oil before applying to skin. Most essential oils should be diluted at a rate of 1% EO to CO. For instance, 3 to 4 drops of EO per ounce carrier oil.
If you're new to essential oils, it's a good idea to do your homework before you begin usage. Try online resources or speak to an essential oil consultant.