Essential oils are one of the most delicate yet powerful ingredients I work with. They are potent in small amounts, require a tremendous amount of plant material to produce a very tiny quantity and when it comes to working with essential oils in skincare, they are sensitive to heat.
My customers are often surprised to discover that I offer a Gentle Face Cream that contains NO essential oils. I find while essential oils are 'natural,' they still contain chemical compounds that can affect certain individuals with sensitivities.
An Essential oil in a bottle is 50-100 times more concentrated than in the plant.
To better understand their potency, here are some interesting details:
30 lbs of plant material is used to produce 1/2 oz of Lavender essential oil.
Approximately 188 lbs of lemon balm is needed to produce 1/2 oz of Lemon balm essential oil.
Nearly 252,000 individual petals (or 8,000 rose flowers) is needed to produce one 1/2 oz bottle of rose essential oil.
Thinking of the information I just shared, imagine how powerful one drop of essential oil really is.
Each oil consists of plant compounds containing specific dermal limits for our skin. Depending on the essential oil, each has varied limits you can use on your skin. Some are so small, you would barely know it is being used. For example, Rose Otto essential oil is to be used sparingly.
*Never apply essential oils directly to your skin. To properly use an oil, a carrier oil is recommended.
At times, I am asked about pregnancy or children and essential oils. I ALWAYS error on the side of caution when it comes to using essential oils in these situations. If it is a concern, it is best to consult your doctor. It's best to be safe.
The following essential oils should be avoided by children under the age of 10: (these are not limited to this list. Please consult your physician if you have specific questions.)
Birch
Wintergreen
Sage
Hyssop
Chaste Tree
Eucalyptus- Globulus and Peppermint oil should be used with caution around children under 10.
For more information on essential oils and children safety, click here.
The potency of essential oils should always be at the forefront when using them. My training consists of the proper usage of each essential oil in skin and hair care products. There is a dermal limit when it comes to usage and each essential oil is different. My expertise lies in the benefits of essential oils used in natural skin and hair products.
If you would like more information or guidance, reach out to a Certified Aromatherapist in your area.
When used correctly, essential oils are among Mother Nature’s most potent remedies.
Are you ready to update your skin care routine? I offer custom guidance with your skin + hair journey. Learn more at Luminous Rose.