Are You Using Essential Oil the Wrong Way? This is What You Need to Know!

Do you know how to use essential oils safely? If you use essential oil regularly in your routine, it is important for you to be aware of the best way to use essential oils. Essential oils and the confusion about how to use them are everywhere. Essential oil safety tips can help you incorporate them into your routine without risks. Today, we have brought this easy-to-follow guide to familiarize you with how to dilute essential oils and their safe usage.

What Are Essential Oils?

Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts. They’re typically extracted through methods like steam distillation or cold pressing. Many people believe that Essential oils, being derived from plants and flowers, can be used without caution. Even when essential oils are extracts from nature, essential oil safety tips are crucial. Essential oils are used in a variety of ways, including aromatherapy, massage, skincare, and even cleaning products. But understanding the best way to use essential oils safely will help you get the most benefits without any risk.

How to Use Essential Oils Safely

Essential oils offer various benefits but improper use can lead to adverse effects. Here are some essential oil safety tips that you should follow when using any essential oil:

1. Dilution is the Key

If you want to use any essential oil of any brand for the purpose of skincare and haircare, don’t forget to dilute the essential oil with some other carrier oil or product. For example if you want to use rosemary essential oil for haircare, then you can add 3-4 drops of it in a tablespoon of coconut oil or jojoba oil and then apply this mixture on your hairs. The process of dilution ensures safe use of essential oils by reducing their potency and minimizing the risk of irritation.

2. Patch Test Before Use

A patch test is a method of testing a new product on a smaller area of your body, like the back of the ears or ankle, to check whether the product is going to be suitable for you or not. Even after dilution, some essential oils can cause irritation. So the best way to use essential oils for skincare and haircare for the first time would be diluting it and then performing a patch test (leave it for 24 hours) before widespread use. 

3. Inhalation vs. Topical Usage Method

To use essential oils safely, it's important to choose the right method based on your specific need. If you are using essential oils for the purpose of inhalation, add a few drops to a diffuser or a bowl of hot water. If you are using an essential oil for topical application, you can apply the oil after diluting to your hair, skin, pulse point or temples. Following essential oil safety tips helps maximize benefits while minimizing risks.

4. Avoid Internal Use

Many people wonder, “Can I ingest essential oils?”Essential oils are naturally derived from plants' botanical extracts like their roots, flowers and resin. But that doesn't make them safe for consumption. If you want to ingest essential oils for their health benefits, consider taking guidance from a healthcare professional. Many essential oils are highly potent and can be toxic if consumed improperly.

5. Avoid Photosensitivity

Many essential oils like lemon, orange and bergamot are known to make skin sensitive to sunlight. One of the essential oil safety tips for skincare is to apply SPF when using such oils. The best way to use essential oils in skincare is to apply them in the evening or with sun protection.

6. Keep Away from Children & Pets

If you have children and pets at home, you should be careful with the storage of essential oils. Some essential oils can be toxic when ingested. Following essential oil safety tips such as storing them in a cool, secure place will ensure safety of your kids and pets.

7. Use Dark Amber Glass Containers for Storage

Dark amber glass bottles help preserve an essential oil's natural properties. When buying essential oils, ensure that they come in a dark amber glass container. Always store essential oils away from heat and sunlight to maintain their potency and prevent degradation, ensuring the best way to use essential oils.

Common Essential Oils for Beginners

If you’re new to essential oils, here are some beginner-friendly options and the best way to use essential oils safely:

• Lavender: perfect for making DIY room freshener and mild perfumes.

• Rosemary: has hair nourishing properties and can become an integral part of your haircare routine and products.

• Tea Tree: widely used for skincare benefits. 

• Lemon: can be used in a diffuser to add a touch of freshness to your space.

• Eucalyptus: can be used to make DIY candles and soaps and even natural cleaning products. 

Final Thoughts

Being a beginner essential oil user can be confusing with all kinds of advice and opinions available out there on safe usage of essential oils. Essential oils can enhance your wellness routine if used safely and correctly. When you are buying an essential oil, prioritize quality over anything else. At SVA, we believe in making trustworthy, high-quality essential oils accessible, so you can experience their true benefits with confidence and peace of mind. Stay tuned we are going to bring many such insightful blogs about essential oils and their safe usage.