If the skin has been exposed to cosmetics, soaps, cleaners and personal care products that contain synthetic chemicals caution needs to be exercised. Petroleum based chemicals can remain in the fatty tissues for weeks after being applied. Essential oils may react with these chemicals and cause a toxic reaction in form of skin irritation or head aches.
Toxins from chemicals in the environment, water, food and work can build up in the body which essential oils can react to. If a reaction occur while you use the essentials oils it is wise to discontinue their use for a while. An internal cleansing program is suggested as well as double the intake of water when you use the essential oils.
Here are some alternatives to a detoxification program:
- Use single oils or blends, one at a time. By starting with one blend or oil it is easier to monitor any reactions.
- Reduce the dose, and use a 1 % dilution when blending massage oils.
- Use the oils less frequently.
- Make sure you drink plenty of distilled or purified water.
- Make sure you perform a skin test. If irritation occur, dilute with vegetable oil or massage oil. Then cleanse with soap and water.
- If skin irritation or other reactions persist, discontinue the use on that location. Apply to the bottoms of the feet instead.
It is wise to avoid products that contain the following ingredients. This will aid in eliminating any potential problems:
- Cosmetics, deodorants, and skin care products containing aluminum, petrochemicals, or other synthetic ingredients.
- Hair colors and dyes, perms, hair sprays or gels containing synthetic ingredients. Avoid toothpaste, shampoos, mouthwash, and soaps containing sodium laurel sulfate, propylene glycol, or lead acetate.
- Paints, detergents, garden sprays and cleansers containing toxic chemicals and solvents.
Don't apply essential oils near or on the eyes or in the ears. Many oils can be applied anywhere on the body while some may be irritating to sensitive tissues.
Keep the essential oils out of reach of children. Only apply on children under skilled supervision. In case a child swallows an essential oil:
- Administer a mixture of milk, cream, yogurtt, or anoter safe, oil- soluble liquid.
- Call a Poison Control Center or seek immediate emergency medical attention if necessary.
An acidic body, the body pH being low, could also react negatively to an essential oil. Avoid these oils if you are going to be out in the sun.
Check out my dilution chart and my safety page to make sure that you dilute the oils correctly and that the oils you use are safe for you.-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
