Why avoid essential oils in skincare?

Author: Reba Adams  |  Last update: Tuesday, September 23, 2025

Many essential oils react to UV light and cause your skin to burn or result in temporary hyperpigmentation. And certain ingredients (namely other sensitizers, like drying alcohols or harsh surfactants), when used in conjunction with essential oils, can lead to irritant reactions that are even worse.

Why are essential oils bad in skincare?

The scents of essential oils change as they break down, and they oxidize, creating morphed chemical compounds that can be bad for the skin, increasing the chance of negative reactions and sensitization.

Why do dermatologists not like essential oils?

The issue with oils is that they have a hard time penetrating and stays on top of the skin. The surface tension of the oil is not enough to break through the skin and get inside.

What is the 30/50/20 rule for essential oils?

When it comes to blending essential oils by note it is a good idea to follow the 30/50/20 rule. This makes it easier to find the right balance between the oils used in your blend, with 30% being top note, 50% middle note and 20% base note.

What are the negative effects of essential oils?

For example, a 2022 study of 200 individuals demonstrated the negative association between the use of essential oils and cardiopulmonary health. Study participants who inhaled essential oils one hour or more each day had increased heart rate and blood pressure and a decreased lung function rate.

Dermatologist Weighs in on Essential Oils in your Skincare Products and Cosmetics

Are essential oils hormone disruptors?

Endocrine Disrupting Activities

In addition, these chemicals are known to interfere with hormone synthesis, metabolism, transport, and degradation [28]. In previous reports, essential oils have been determined to act as an EDC [16-18].

How many essential oils can be mixed together for skin?

How many essential oils can you blend together? There really is no limit to how many oils you can mix together. Some of the best blends contain five, six, or more unique oils. However, eventually, if you add too many oils, the different notes can mix and mingle too much and lead to an undesirable outcome.

What is the best carrier oil for essential oils?

The Best Carrier Oils for Essential Oils
  • Jojoba oil - Best all-around carrier oil.
  • Fractionated coconut oil - Best for dry skin.
  • Blueberry seed oil - Best for hair and nails.
  • Olive oil - Best for dry scalps.
  • Sweet almond oil - Best for nourishing skin.
  • Rosehip oil - Best for anti-aging.

What essential oils should not be mixed together?

Which Essential Oils Should Not Be Mixed?
  • Peppermint and Eucalyptus.
  • Lemon and Lavender.
  • Clove and Thyme.

What essential oils cannot be used on skin?

Citrus oils such as grapefruit, tangerine, bergamot, grapefruit, lemon or lime have been proven to be quite problematic when applied directly to the skin. Not only have these been known to cause problems, but mint oils such as wintergreen, balm mint, or peppermint are not recommended to be used on the face either.

Which essential oil is best for anti-aging?

Examples of essential oils that are effective in anti-aging are Frankincense, Lavender, Rose, Neroli, Geranium, Sandalwood, Citrus, Carrot seed, Ylang Ylang, and Rosemary.

Why you should avoid fragrance in skincare?

For some people however, fragrance can have a negative impact on how their skin looks and feels. “Fragrance can be an irritant leading to redness, itchy skin and sometimes hives,” says Garnier consulting dermatologist Dr. Diane Madfes.

Can essential oils cause skin problems?

Because essential oils contain many plant products and chemicals, their application can lead to an irritant contact dermatitis, defined by a direct physical or chemical injury to the epidermis. This reaction typically occurs more quickly after application, as opposed to the delayed reaction associated with an allergy.

What does jojoba oil do for skin?

Jojoba Oil has anti-inflammatory properties which help to tame chaffing and chapping, reduce redness caused by drying, ease the effects of eczema and rosacea, and keep skin calm and comfortable. The Vitamin E and B-complex vitamins in the Jojoba Oil help in skin repair and damage control.

Is FÜM actually safe?

Is FÜM safe? Yes, multiple 3rd party toxicology reports & studies have been done on the inhalation and digestion of the plant compounds we use in our Cores, and we are committed to always be funding more.

What is the best carrier oil for aging skin?

Rosehip oil is one of the best oils for aging skin due to its high content of vitamins A and C, which help to improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Discover the benefits of Rosehip Oil.

What essential oils do not need a carrier oil?

Specific essential oils that tend to be safe to apply undiluted include tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) **Be sure it has not oxidized!, lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), helichrysum (Helichrysum italicum), Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile), rose (Rosa damascena), and sandalwood (Santalum album or Santalum ...

What does coconut oil do for skin?

Coconut oil for face is popular as it is highly moisturising and can also reduce inflammation, counteract free radical damage and prevent infection. Not only this but coconut oil for face can boost the production of collagen which helps to firm skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

What essential oil is best for the face?

Some of the essential oils for skin care that are renowned for their hydrating and nourishing properties include rose, roman chamomile, geranium, patchouli and sandalwood. One of the most prevalent concerns when it comes to skin care is the appearance of dry, dehydrated and dull skin.

What oils cannot be mixed together for skin?

There is also some evidence that skin irritation may be caused by the combination of Peppermint and Ylang Ylang, or Grapefruit blended with Lemon. It has also been suggested that the combination of Peppermint and Jasmine may cause irritation to the respiratory system.

Can you put too much essential oil on your skin?

Skin/Topical Use

Certain oils may cause irritation if used in too high a concentration. If you happen to be a highly sensitive person (HSP), try a skin patch test to determine any potential irritation before you use essential oils, and always dilute appropriately.

Why should you not put essential oils on your skin?

“Using them on your skin almost insures that some of it will get into your bloodstream,” Dr. Petrillo said, listing a skin-crawling list of common side effects, including redness, chemical burns, headaches, swelling and blisters.

What are the bad things about essential oils?

The use of undiluted essential oils on sensitive skin or in the nostrils can irritate or burn. Susceptible people may also develop an allergic reaction and a skin rash.

Which essential oil is best for glowing skin?

Top 7 Best Essential oils for Glowing Skin
  • Tea Tree Essential Oil.
  • Lavender essential oil.
  • Sweet Orange Essential Oil.
  • Lemongrass essential oil.
  • Eucalyptus Essential Oil.
  • Rosemary Essential Oil.
  • Lemon Oil.
  • FAQ.

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