Essential Oil Safety Guide – 15 Important Tips For Safe Use

Quick Safety Rules: Start Here!

Before diving into the details, here are the five golden rules for safe essential oil use:

• Always dilute before applying to your skin
• Always patch test new oils before broader use
• Start small – use just 1-2 drops and increase gradually
• Store safely – away from children, pets, heat, and sunlight
• When in doubt, ask – consult a qualified aromatherapist or healthcare provider

Essential oil safety is a crucial aspect of aromatherapy and should be your top priority at all times.

Understanding the best practices and potential risks associated with improper use is key to using these concentrated plant extracts safely and effectively for relaxation and personal enjoyment.

Essential oils have become increasingly popular among people seeking natural ways to enhance their daily self-care routines. These highly concentrated plant extracts offer wonderful aromatic experiences when used correctly, whether you’re creating a spa-like atmosphere at home or crafting handmade bath and body products

This essential oil safety guide will provide you with the knowledge and resources you need to make informed decisions about incorporating essential oils into your lifestyle.

15 Essential Oil Safety Tips

1. Use Only High-Quality Essential Oils From Reputable Sources

I cannot stress this enough – to enjoy the aromatic benefits of essential oils, you must buy high-quality, pure essential oils from reputed brands.

Cheap or low-quality oils may contain additives or preservatives to extend their shelf life. These can reduce the quality of the aroma and, in some cases, may even cause skin irritation.

Read my detailed Plant Therapy Essential Oils Review to see why this is my #1 recommended aromatherapy brand.

When you buy essential oils from Plant Therapy, you know what you’re getting is pure, genuine, and unadulterated.

2. Read the Label On The Bottle

A reputed essential oil brand will always have a label with details about the contents of that particular bottle.

• The label on the bottle should contain these details:
• The botanical name of the plant from which the oil is extracted
• The country where the plant was harvested
• Extraction and packaging date
• Potential risks or cautions
• “100% Pure Essential Oil” statement

If a label only states ‘Made from natural ingredients’ or ‘Made from essential oils’ but does not say ‘100%’, the product may contain a mix of natural components and synthetic fragrance oils.

Fragrance oils add a pleasant aroma to the product but offer no aromatherapy benefits. They are a waste of money, and some may even cause skin irritation.

This guide to buying essential oils explains in more detail what to look for to ensure the product is high quality. Reading through it will help you steer clear of poor-quality oils.

3. Ease Into Essential Oils Slowly

Whether you’re inhaling the aromas or using the oil topically, it’s advisable to start slowly and proceed cautiously. This is the core principle of essential oil safety.

Use small, diluted amounts carefully and observe how your body responds before increasing the dosage or the frequency of use.

This is especially important when using an essential oil you’ve never used before.

Don’t base your usage on another person’s experience. Different people have different sensitivities to various substances. You must test your own reactions and proceed accordingly.

Practical tip: When using a new oil, start by diffusing for just 15-30 minutes to see how you feel. You can gradually increase the time if you enjoy the aroma and experience no discomfort.

4. Always Dilute Essential Oils Before Topical Application

Essential oils are very potent and can cause skin irritation, redness, or burning sensations if applied to the skin in their concentrated form.

You must dilute the essential oil with a carrier oil such as coconut, sweet almond, or jojoba oil for topical application.

The carrier oil dilutes the concentration of the essential oil and also acts as a protective barrier between the essential oil and your skin.

Dilution Guidelines for Adults

Here’s a quick reference guide for safe dilution rates:

For Facial Applications:

• 0.5-1% dilution = 1-2 drops of essential oil per 2 teaspoons (10ml) of carrier oil

For Body Applications (Massage, Lotions):

• 1-2% dilution = 2-4 drops of essential oil per 2 teaspoons (10ml) of carrier oil
• Maximum 2.5% for short-term use on small areas

For Bath:

• 4-6 drops total, mixed first with 1 tablespoon of carrier oil or milk before adding to bathwater

For Sensitive Skin or Mature Skin:

• Start with 0.5-1% dilution and increase only if no irritation occurs
• Mature skin can be more delicate and may benefit from lower concentrations

This guide to diluting essential oils covers everything you need to know about this crucial aspect of topical application.

This magnetic essential oil dilution chart from Plant Therapy is a handy reference guide to diluting essential oils the right way.

5. Do a Patch Test Before Using An Essential Oil Topically

Always do a skin patch test before applying an essential oil more liberally, even if you’ve diluted it properly.

There’s no way of knowing beforehand how your skin will react to a new substance. Just because a product doesn’t trigger a reaction in others, the same may not apply to you.

How to do a proper patch test:

• Mix 1 drop of essential oil with 1 teaspoon of carrier oil
• Apply a small amount (about the size of a dime) to the inside of your forearm or behind your ear
• Cover with a bandage if desired
• Wait 24-48 hours and check for any reaction
• Look for redness, itching, swelling, or irritation

If you experience any discomfort, wash the area immediately with carrier oil (not water), then with gentle soap and water. Do not use that essential oil on your skin again.

This guide to the topical application of essential oils offers important tips and precautions on this topic.

6. Do Not Apply Essential Oils To The Eyes, Ears, Or Mucous Membranes

The skin around the eyes, inside the ears, and all mucous membranes (nose, mouth, intimate areas) are highly sensitive and more susceptible to irritation when they come in contact with potent essential oils.

If essential oil gets in these sensitive areas accidentally:

• Do NOT use water – oil and water don’t mix, and water may spread the oil
• Pour carrier oil (like coconut or olive oil) onto a soft cloth
• Gently wipe or dab the area
• Repeat with fresh carrier oil if needed
• If irritation persists or worsens, seek medical attention

Safe application areas: The safest pulse points for essential oils include wrists, temples, behind the ears (on the skin, not in the ear), neck, and chest.

7. Less is More with Essential Oil Usage

Nowhere is the phrase “less is more” more applicable than when using essential oils.

These plant extracts are highly concentrated, so you only need a couple of drops to achieve the desired aromatic effect. Always use essential oils mindfully and carefully.

Practical measurements:

• For a personal inhaler: 10-15 drops total
• For a diffuser (100ml water): 3-5 drops for a subtle aroma, up to 8-10 drops for a stronger scent
• For a massage oil (1 ounce): 6-12 drops depending on desired strength
• For a rollerball blend (10ml): 10-20 drops maximum

When following essential oil recipes, use the recommended number of drops. If the recipe calls for 1 to 2 drops, do not use 3 drops. Not only is it wasteful to use too much, but it could also cause headaches or skin irritation.

8. Keep Out of Reach of Children & Pets

ALL essential oils should be treated like household chemicals that can become dangerous in unknowing hands. This includes children and pets.

Left within reach of children and pets, these substances can be harmful if accidentally ingested, spilled on skin, or inhaled in large concentrated amounts.

Safe storage tips:

• Store oils in a locked cabinet or high shelf
• Keep bottles tightly closed when not in use
• Never leave bottles unattended during use
• Teach children that these are “adult-only” products
• Be aware that some essential oils are toxic to pets, especially cats

Children should not be allowed to use these products unsupervised, as they may not be able to regulate how much they use or understand proper dilution.

9. Keep Out of Reach of Open Flames

Essential oils are flammable and should be kept away from open flames, candles, stoves, and other heat sources.

Your bottle could catch fire or even explode if kept too close to the fireplace, a burning candle, or a stovetop.

Safety precautions:

• Store bottles in a cool location away from heat sources
• Never pour essential oils near an open flame
• When using candles for aromatherapy, pour the oil carefully onto cooled wax, never onto the flame
• Keep diffusers away from candles and fireplaces
• Don’t store essential oils near your stove or oven

10. Be Careful with Citrus Oils & Sun Exposure

Oils from the citrus aroma family contain photosensitizing compounds called furanocoumarins. Exposure to sunlight or UV rays after applying these oils to your skin can cause photosensitivity, increasing the risk of sunburn, dark spots, or skin damage.

Photosensitive citrus oils include:

• Bergamot
• Lemon
• Lime
• Grapefruit
• Bitter Orange

Safety guidelines: After applying citrus oils on your skin (whether in lotion, perfume, or massage oil), you must protect the area from direct sunlight and UV exposure (including tanning beds) for at least 12-18 hours.

Better alternatives:

• Use citrus oils only in diffusers or room sprays if you’ll be in the sun
• Apply citrus blends only to areas that will be covered by clothing
• Use steam-distilled citrus oils (like Sweet Orange or Distilled Lime), which are not phototoxic
• Save citrus body products for evening use

11. Store Essential Oils Properly

Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the quality of your essential oils and preventing safety issues.

Storage guidelines:

• Temperature: Store in a cool, dry place away from heat and direct sunlight. Ideal storage temperature is between 35-70°F (2-21°C).
• Light: Keep oils in dark glass bottles (amber or cobalt blue). Light can degrade essential oils over time. Store bottles in a drawer, cabinet, or box when not in use.
• Air exposure: Always close bottles tightly immediately after use. Oxygen exposure causes oxidation, which can make oils more likely to cause skin irritation.

Location ideas:

A drawer in a cool bedroom

A cabinet away from windows

A dedicated essential oil storage box

NOT in the bathroom (too humid and temperature fluctuates)

NOT near a window or in direct sunlight

NOT in the kitchen near the stove

Travel tips: When traveling with essential oils, pack them in a protective case, keep them in your carry-on (to avoid temperature extremes in checked luggage), and ensure caps are tightly sealed to prevent leaks.

12. Know When Oils Have Gone Bad

Essential oils don’t last forever. Over time, they oxidize and degrade, which affects both their aroma and their safety profile. Oxidized oils are more likely to cause skin sensitization and irritation.

Signs an essential oil has gone bad:

• The aroma smells different – weak, sour, or “off”
• The oil appears cloudy or has changed color significantly
• The consistency has thickened noticeably
• The oil is past its recommended shelf life

Typical shelf life:

• Citrus oils: 1-2 years (these oxidize the fastest)
• Most single oils: 2-3 years
• Absolutes: 3-5 years
• Oils high in sesquiterpenes (Sandalwood, Patchouli, Vetiver): 4-8 years, can improve with age

Important: Always write the purchase date or opening date on your bottles. This helps you track age and know when to replace oils.

How To Dispose Of Essential Oils Safely:

• Do NOT pour down the drain (can damage plumbing and harm aquatic life)
• Absorb small amounts onto paper towels or kitty litter, then dispose in trash
• Check if your local hazardous waste facility accepts essential oils
• For large amounts, contact a hazardous waste disposal service

13. Take Extra Care When Using Essential Oils For Young Children

Young children have more delicate skin and developing respiratory systems, which means they require extra caution when it comes to essential oils.

General guidelines:

• For infants under 3 months: Avoid using essential oils entirely, even in a diffuser in the same room.
• For children 3-24 months: Use only hydrosols (floral waters) or extremely diluted oils (0.25% or less) and only gentle oils.
• For children 2-6 years: Use only KidSafe oils at appropriate dilutions (1% maximum).
• For children 6+ years: Can gradually increase to adult dilutions with gentle oils.

When using essential oils around or on children, use only oils from Plant Therapy’s KidSafe line. These oils are specially formulated by certified aromatherapists to be safe for use on younger children, with potentially irritating compounds removed.

Use this KidSafe Essential Oil Dilution Chart to ensure you’re using the correct dilution for your child’s age.

Diffuser safety for children:

• Use for only 30-60 minutes at a time
• Ensure good ventilation in the room
• Never diffuse in a small, enclosed space
• Stop immediately if the child shows any signs of discomfort

It’s always best to consult a qualified aromatherapist or healthcare professional before using essential oils on or around young children.

14. Follow Recommended Dosage And Usage Guidelines

Every essential oil has unique properties and recommended usage rates. Unless you’ve had training or significant experience with adjusting dosages, it’s safest to follow the instructions and guidelines provided.

Where to find reliable guidelines:

Reputable essential oil books written by certified aromatherapists

Product information from quality essential oil companies

Certified aromatherapist recommendations

This website’s recipes and guides

Why this matters: Some oils are gentle and can be used in higher concentrations, while others are very strong and should only be used sparingly. For example, lavender is generally gentle and can be used at 2-3% dilution, while oils like cinnamon bark or oregano should only be used at 0.1-0.5% dilution due to their potential to irritate skin.

When creating your own blends: If you’re new to aromatherapy, start by following established recipes rather than creating your own blends. As you gain experience and knowledge, you can begin experimenting, but always err on the side of caution.

15. Understand Sensitization and Allergic Reactions

It’s important to understand the difference between an allergic reaction and sensitization, as they require different responses.

Allergic Reaction: An immediate response that happens the first time or early uses of an essential oil. Symptoms appear within minutes to hours and may include redness, itching, hives, swelling, or in severe cases, difficulty breathing.

Sensitization: A delayed response that develops over time with repeated exposure. You might use an oil safely many times, but your body gradually develops a sensitivity to it. Once sensitized, even small amounts of that oil will trigger a reaction.

Oils that are more prone to causing sensitization:

• Cinnamon Bark
• Clove Bud
• Oregano
• Thyme
• Lemongrass (when oxidized)
• Any oxidized citrus oil

How to minimize risk:

Always use proper dilution when applying essential oils topically. Don’t use the same oils continuously for months on end. Rotate between different oils in your routine.

Store oils properly to prevent oxidation. Replace oxidized oils rather than continuing to use them

Stop using the oil immediately if you notice any reaction such as redness, rash, itching, burning sensation, or swelling. Inhalation overexposure can also lead to a headache or dizziness.

If you become sensitized to an oil, you should avoid using it permanently, as reactions can worsen with continued exposure.

What To Do In Case of Adverse Reactions

Even when following all safety guidelines, reactions can occasionally occur.

For skin irritation or accidental skin contact with undiluted oil:

• Do NOT rinse with water first – oil and water don’t mix
• Apply a carrier oil (coconut, olive, or any cooking oil) liberally to the affected area
• Gently wipe away with a soft cloth
• Repeat if needed
• Then wash with mild soap and water
• Apply aloe vera or a gentle moisturizer to soothe the skin
• If irritation persists or worsens after 24 hours, contact a healthcare provider

For eye exposure:

• Flush eyes with carrier oil first (use a dropper if possible)
• Gently wipe from the inner to the outer corner
• Then rinse with lukewarm water
• If burning or pain continues, seek medical attention immediately

For accidental ingestion:

• Do NOT induce vomiting
• Call Poison Control immediately: 1-800-222-1222 (US)
• Have the essential oil bottle ready to provide information
• Follow Poison Control’s instructions
• Seek emergency medical care if advised

For inhalation overexposure (headache, nausea, dizziness):

Immediately move to fresh air

Turn off the diffuser

Open windows for ventilation

Sit or lie down

Always better to err on the side of caution: If you’re unsure whether a reaction requires medical attention, call your healthcare provider or Poison Control. They can provide guidance specific to your situation.

Essential Oil Safety: Special Considerations

Pregnancy and Nursing

The topic of essential oil use during pregnancy and breastfeeding is one where expert opinions vary widely, and research is limited.

Due to the lack of conclusive safety data and out of an abundance of caution, many aromatherapists recommend avoiding essential oils during the first trimester of pregnancy and using only very gentle oils in low dilutions during the second and third trimesters.

Our recommendation: If you’re pregnant or nursing, please consult with your healthcare provider before using essential oils. They can help you make an informed decision based on your individual circumstances.

Mature Skin Considerations

As we age, our skin naturally becomes thinner and may be more sensitive. If you’re over 50 or notice your skin has become more delicate:

Start with lower dilution rates (0.5-1% instead of 2%)

Use gentler oils like lavender, Roman chamomile, or frankincense

Avoid “hot” oils like cinnamon, clove, or oregano

Be extra diligent about patch testing

Pay attention to how your skin responds and adjust accordingly

Your skin will tell you what works – if you notice any redness or irritation, reduce your dilution or try a different oil.

If You’re Taking Medications

If you take any regular medications or have ongoing health concerns, it’s wise to consult with your healthcare provider before starting to use essential oils topically or in a diffuser. This is simply a good practice to ensure your aromatherapy routine complements your overall wellness plan.

Chronic Skin Conditions

If you have eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, or other chronic skin conditions, approach essential oils with extra caution:

Use minimal dilutions (0.5% or less)

Avoid applying to affected areas during flare-ups

Patch test on healthy skin first

Consult with a dermatologist before use

Consider using hydrosols instead, which are gentler

Essential Oil Safety Starts with Doing Your Research

The essential oil safety tips listed above provide a solid foundation for using essential oils safely, but they shouldn’t be considered as complete and thorough training in aromatherapy.

Before you start using essential oils, take time to understand what are essential oils and the science behind how aromatherapy works.

It also helps to learn how to store essential oils correctly to maximize their shelf life and how to use essential oils for aromatherapy correctly.

Recommended resources:

You’ll find some great resources on everything related to aromatherapy in this list of the best essential oil books for all levels. Whether you’re just getting started or you want to expand your knowledge in this area, you’re sure to find a book that’s right for you in this list.

Last but not least, here’s what you should know about expiry date and shelf life of essential oils.

The more you learn about essential oils, the more confident and safe you’ll be in using them. Start slowly, educate yourself continuously, and always prioritize safety over all else.

Remember: When used thoughtfully and safely, essential oils can be a wonderful addition to your relaxation and self-care routine. Take your time learning about each oil, start with small amounts, and always prioritize safety. Your aromatherapy journey should be enjoyable and worry-free!

Frequently Asked Questions About Essential Oil Safety