With summer upon us, I wanted to pop in with a quick post about phototoxic essential oils. Photowhat? Phototoxic means UV sensitizing. If you use body oils or essential oil skincare blends, it’s worthwhile to check the ingredient list before applying them and spending extended periods of time in the sun. Most essential oils are perfectly fine to be applied before heading outdoors. There are, however, a handful that will cause your skin to be increasingly sensitive to sun exposure.
Certain chemicals called furanocoumarins induce a skin reaction in the presence of strong sunlight. They absorb more UV photons than normal, which results in a rapid tanning or burning skin reaction. These are commonly found in citrus essential oils.
The risk of phototoxicity will remain for 12 hours. So if you topically apply one of these essential oils to your skin, avoid sun and UV exposure for at least 12 hours. If you’re diffusing one of these oils in your home, no need to worry. This applies to topical application to the skin, not inhalation.
Phototoxic Essential Oils
Do not apply the following list of phototoxic essential oils topically before exposure to sunlight and ultraviolet rays. You’ll notice a lot of citrus.
- Bergamot (Citrus bergamia)
- Lime (cold pressed) (Citrus medica)
- Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium)
- Angelica root (Angelica archangelica)
- Cumin (Cuminum cyminum)
- Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi)
- Lemon (Citrus limon)
- Rue (Ruta graveolens)
- Opoponax (Commiphora erythraea)
- Tagetes (Tagetes minuta)
- Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus, Cymbopogon flexuosus)
- Sweet orange (Citrus sinensis)
- Tangerine (Citrus reticulata blanco)
Hypericum (St John’s wort) also increases photosensitivity. It’s a macerated oil and often used as a carrier for essential oils. Avoid applying it before exposure to the sun.
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In keeping with all things summer, I’ve got a whole series on essential oils for sunburn care coming your way over the next couple weeks. You’re going to LOVE the DIY soothing spray recipe I have for you!
xo Nicole
I’m a Certified Holistic Aromatherapist via the Institute of Integrative Aromatherapy. All information shared in this post is from the IIA Certification Course manuals and coursework, and my own independent studies. The following books were part of my coursework and I’d recommend them if you’re interested in learning more about essential oils and aromatherapy: Aromatherapy: A Holistic Guide to Natural Healing with Essential Oils by Valerie Gennari Cooksley, RN, The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy by Salvatore Battaglia and Essential Oil Safety by Robert Tisserand.
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