Photosensitive Oils
What makes an essential oil photosensitive?
There are certain compounds found in citrus oils, known as furanocoumarins, that increase UV sensitivity. While most photosensitive oils are citrus, other oils can contain compounds or mixes of compounds that have the same effect as furanocoumarins, making them unsafe to use around direct sun contact.
Always check the label before application to determine the oil’s photosensitivity.
Always check the label before application to determine the oil’s photosensitivity.
What's the best way to reduce the risks of a negative reaction?
Use photosensitive oils at nighttime
Using photosensitive oils at nighttime helps reduce the risks associated with these oils. Feel free to add these oils to your nightly skin care routine, evening body wash or lotion, bedtime bath, or relaxing before-bed foot, neck, or back massage.
Cover application area
Blocking UV rays by covering up will also help reduce your risk of reaction. Apply oil to the back, lower chest, or temples and throw on a crewneck tee and hat. Just be sure that anywhere you apply oil is fully covered with a heavy or tightly knit material.
Follow label instructions
The best way to avoid a negative reaction is to follow the label instructions. Most undiluted photosensitive oils require 12 hours before sun exposure, but some can take up to 48 hours. Be aware that the amount you use and whether you dilute, both affect the concentration of photosensitive compounds; and always remember that sunscreen helps you stay safe in the sun, even after the recommended wait time.
Using photosensitive oils at nighttime helps reduce the risks associated with these oils. Feel free to add these oils to your nightly skin care routine, evening body wash or lotion, bedtime bath, or relaxing before-bed foot, neck, or back massage.
Cover application area
Blocking UV rays by covering up will also help reduce your risk of reaction. Apply oil to the back, lower chest, or temples and throw on a crewneck tee and hat. Just be sure that anywhere you apply oil is fully covered with a heavy or tightly knit material.
Follow label instructions
The best way to avoid a negative reaction is to follow the label instructions. Most undiluted photosensitive oils require 12 hours before sun exposure, but some can take up to 48 hours. Be aware that the amount you use and whether you dilute, both affect the concentration of photosensitive compounds; and always remember that sunscreen helps you stay safe in the sun, even after the recommended wait time.
What should I do if I have a reaction?
If you or someone you know is having a reaction, get away from UV exposure immediately and follow one of the following procedures:
After skin reaction:
1. Immediately wash with cold water and soap. Rinse thoroughly.
2. Dilute and rinse the skin with vegetable oil to dilute the essential oil.
After eye reaction:
1. Rinse opened eye for several minutes under running water.
2. Apply vegetable oil with a sterile cloth around the eye to dilute any excess essential oil.
Always obtain medical advice if the skin is painful or the reaction covers a substantial portion of the body.
After skin reaction:
1. Immediately wash with cold water and soap. Rinse thoroughly.
2. Dilute and rinse the skin with vegetable oil to dilute the essential oil.
After eye reaction:
1. Rinse opened eye for several minutes under running water.
2. Apply vegetable oil with a sterile cloth around the eye to dilute any excess essential oil.
Always obtain medical advice if the skin is painful or the reaction covers a substantial portion of the body.
Info provided by YL