Summer Essential Oil Safety
Look at the labels and follow direction closely, especially if you are trying oils for the first time. Many oils need to be diluted with a carrier oil. For application convenience, many of doTERRA’s most popular oils are prediluted with a carrier oil as part of our Touch line. The Peppermint touch roller is a summer favorite for many because of its cooling effects on the skin. When applying to your face, avoid contact with your eyes, nose, or ears.
The sun is inviting and it’s nice to be able to get that much needed, natural vitamin D outside. However, be aware that some of your family’s favorite citrus oils should be avoided topically before direct sunlight or exposure to artificial UV rays.
When ultraviolet (UV) radiation, a form of radiation which makes up approximately 10% of sunlight, comes in contact with particular substances it can initiate a series of chemical and biological reactions. This immune system reaction is known as photosensitization. Some essential oils contain organic compounds known as furocoumarins that make some people’s skin more sensitive to the effects of UV radiation. When photosensitive skin is exposed to UV radiation, it may cause the formation of free radicals, inflicting damage to cellular membranes, organelles, and proteins. Acutely, this may result in temporary darkening of skin pigment and irritation, much like a sunburn. More extreme exposure may cause hives or burns.
Video - Dr. Amy Wolthoff, Dermatologist
For the safety and convenience of doTERRA customers we have identified and labeled the following essential oils and blends as photosensitive:
- Aromatouch
- Bergamot
- doTERRA Breathe
- Citrus Bliss
- Cumin
- Elevation
- Grapefruit
- InTune
- Kumquat
- Lemon
- Lime
- doTERRA OnGuard
- Purify
- Slim & Sassy
- Sunny Citrus
- Tangerine
- Wild Orange
- Zendocrine
- dōTERRA Cheer
- dōTERRA Motivate
- dōTERRA Forgive