Do’s and Dont’s of Skin Care and Essential Oils

Essential oils are a wonderful way to treat your skin, but you do need to know some facts in order to use them correctly.

Here are the do’s and don’ts of skin care and essential oils:

Do: Know how to use them

Most of this is probably common sense, but you need to be careful where you apply these oils. The neck, head, and around the ears are good places, but be careful applying these oils too close to the eyes or mouth.

Also, know how much you should apply and how long it should stay on your skin.  Knowing how to use these oils is essential for your safety and health.

Don’t: slather up before testing them

It’s also important to test a small amount of the oil before slathering it all over your body.

Put a small amount on your arm and see if you have any reactions to it through the day, if not, then feel free to start rubbing those oils on.

Do: Dilute them

Some people do not know most essential oils need to be diluted. A lot of times the directions will state this, but you should always double check the water to oil ratio because, without the water, the oil could cause a reaction you just don’t want.

Don’t: disregard their shelf life

Some essential oils last for years, but a lot do not and require refrigeration and storage away from the sun. Essential oils do go bad, and it is necessary to know the shelf life of each and every one you use.

Do: be careful and informed if pregnant

Although some essential oils can be soothing for pregnant women, such as lavender and chamomile, others are not okay to use during pregnancy such as rosemary and nutmeg to name a few. If you are pregnant, and considering using essential oils, it is important to speak to your doctor first.

Don’t go tanning after using citric oils

It’s also essential to know that some oils, notably those with citrus, have properties in them that will make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so lathering up in citrus oil then heading to the beach is not a good idea.

Essential oils can do wonders for your skin if used properly. Make sure you are aware of the risks as well of the benefits of these natural remedies.