Essential Oil Sun Safety

As we spend more time in the sun, it is good to know what phytotoxicity is and how to avoid the side effects. Most essential oil users incorporate essential oils into their daily lives, but did you know that there are essential oils that should not be used before going out in the sun? 

Photosensitivity occurs when furocoumarins react when exposed to ultraviolet light, causing blistering and reddening and/or burning of the skin.

Photosensitivity is commonly caused by citrus oils, but is not limited to only citrus. The best way to avoid a problem is to not use photosensitive oils topically on the same day that you will be in exposed to direct sunlight. It is best to err on the side of caution and avoid direct sunlight/ UV rays for a 24 hour period after applying these essential oils to your skin.

You might have noticed that we suggest a low percentage dilution rate for a number of our oils that can cause photosensitivity. That is another thing that we are doing to help you and your family stay safe while enjoying essential oils.

ESSENTIAL OILS THAT CAN BE PHOTOSENSITIVE (SHOULD BE AVOIDED IN THE SUN)

• Angelica Root Essential Oil
• Bergamot (Cold Pressed)
• Bitter Orange (Cold Pressed)
• Cumin
• Fig Leaf Absolute
• Grapefruit (Cold Pressed)
• Lemon (Cold Pressed)
• Lime (Cold Pressed)
• Mandarin Leaf
• Opopanax
• Rue
• Tagetes

CITRUS OILS THAT ARE NOT COMMONLY PHOTOSENSITIVE

Always Check With Your Aromatherapist

• Bergamot FCF (FCF Has the Bergaptene/Furanocoumarins Removed)
• Bergamot (Steam Distilled)
• Blood Orange (Cold Pressed or Steam Distilled)
• Lemon (Steam Distilled)
• Lime (Steam Distilled)
• Mandarin (Cold Pressed or Steam Distilled)
• Sweet Orange (Cold Pressed or Steam Distilled)
• Petitgrain
• Tangelo (Cold Pressed or Steam Distilled)
• Tangerine (Cold Pressed or Steam Distilled)
• Yuzu Oil (Cold Pressed or Steam Distilled)