Essential oils and the sun
Have you heard stories of people getting burned from wearing essential oils in the sun? This is because a small handful of essential oils can intensify the sun’s effect due to a component called furanoids. These are called photosensitive or phototoxic essential oils. However, it is easy to avoid being burned by remembering a few easy tips. First, some definitions:
——> Furanoids are commonly found in the peel of citrus fruits – they are what cause the fruit to change colors as they ripen in the sun. Fascinating! Since this constituent also can be found in some essential oils, if they are applied and worn in the sun can they can increase the likelihood that the skin will burn.
A Photosensitive essential oil is an oil with a lower percentage of Furanoids that may or may not cause the skin to burn.
A phototoxic essential oil is an oil that contains a high percentage of Furanoids which causes an increase in the effects of the sun on our skin. It is rare for an oil to be truly photoTOXIC but these oils can easily cause sun burns when used on skin that is then exposed to sun, therefore avoid using these oils in the sun.
- Discolored skin
- Irritation
- Swelling
- Sun burns
- Blistering
Yes we need to be careful. However, the more diluted a photosensitive or phototoxic oil, the less risk it can cause a sunburn.
Thankfully there are only a handful of oils you need to be really cautious with. Phototoxicity is mainly a concern when a phototoxic essential oil or a product containing an oil is applied to the skin and left on. Therefore, products like face washes with citrus oils are diluted in the product and rinsed off are not known to cause phototoxic issues. Also, doTERRA takes the extra precaution of using steam-distilled Lemon and Lime, versus pressed, in their skincare products to eliminate photosensitivity. Internal use of citrus oils is also typically a non-issue. Do take care if you have extremely sensitive skin.
Phototoxic Essential oils to avoid completely anywhere your skin will be exposed to sun:
- Bergamot – avoid exposing skin to the sun for at least 24 – 48 hours after application. Diffusing and internal use are safe.
PhotoSENSITIVE essential oils to be careful with, dilute more and avoid sun with for at least 12-24 hours:
- Ginger
- Grapefruit
- Kumquat
- Lime – pressed
- Lemon – pressed
- Tangerine – pressed
DoTERRA blends with phototoxic or photosensitive oils:
- Aromatouch
- Breathe
- Cheer
- Citrus Bliss
- Elevation
- Forgive
- Motivate
- On Guard
- Purify
- Slim & Sassy
- Sunny Citrus (mother’s day blend)
- Zendocrine
Citrus essential oils that are not photosensitive or phototoxic:
- Bergamot- distilled
- Lemon – distilled
- Lime – distilled
- Green Mandarin
- Red Mandarin
- Wild/Sweet Orange
Enjoy your essential oils this summer:
Essential oils are such a wonderful blessing in the hot summer months, such as Terrashield to avoid bug bites, Peppermint to stay cool, Citrus oils in your water to help you stay hydrated, and so much more. No need to avoid your oils all summer, just be careful with a few. Read here to learn more about how to use Essential oils in the Summer
Remember:
- Dilute any citrus oils that may be photosensitive
- Apply photosensitive or phototoxic essential oils where you won’t be exposing skin to the sun, or use them on the bottom of your feet
- Above all – have fun and enjoy your oils this summer!
If you want to get started using essential oils in your own home I’d love to help you! Click here to read more about how to save 25% off all doTERRA oils and products . Let’s chat about what will work best for YOUR family because I love to help people find the perfect fit for them! Email me (rachel@healinginourhomes.com) or fill out the contact form above and I’ll be in touch soon.
Nina says
I applied breathe accidentally instead of immortelle to my skin. What to do now? I need to go out in 8 hours.
Healing in our Homes says
when this happens add additional coconut oil to dilute which decreases risk. Breathe is very low risk as it is so Im sure you were fine. You can also apply sunscreen over these areas to be safe
Linda says
what is suggested if you do get a photosensitive reaction? Is there a good method to healing the skin?
Healing in our Homes says
It takes time to heal but I’d recommend just regular virgin coconut oil.