Updated: Oct 29, 2022
Topical application is one of the ways you can experience the benefits of essential oils. This form of application is unique because it allows for localized effects in the area of the application in addition to providing whole-body support. Additionally, you can use essential oils topically when you want an easy way to target specific areas of your body.
Dilution is a process in which essential oils are mixed with a carrier oil—a pure vegetable oil that helps “carry” the essential oil onto the skin.
Classifications for applying:
• Neat: Oils categorized as “neat” can be applied topically without dilution because of their exceptionally mild chemistry. Frankincense, Lavender, Melaleuca, Melissa, and Sandalwood are good examples of “neat” essential oils.
DILUTION RATIO'S
1% dilution
This rate is recommended for children over the age of 2, facial applications, long-term use, daily use, and accessing the subtle energetic effects of the oil.
• 10 mL/ 2 tsp = 3 drops
• 15 mL/ 3 tsp/ 1 tbsp = 4 drops
• 30 mL/ 6 tsp/ 2 tbsp/ 1 oz = 9 drops
2% dilution
This rate is recommended for children, bath and whole body products, and is great for regular daily use of oil.
This dilution is fine to use with children under the age of 10 for spot treatment or acute situations. We do always recommend starting on the low end of dilution recommendations and then working your way up as needed.
• 10 mL/ 2 tsp = 6 drops
• 15 mL/ 3 tsp/ 1 tbsp = 9 drops
• Dilute: Oils in this category have potent chemistry and should be diluted with a carrier oil before topical application in every case. “Dilute” oils include Cassia, Cinnamon, Clove, Oregano, and Thyme.
• Sensitive: “Sensitive” oils are those that should be diluted before use on young or sensitive skin. Bergamot, Black Pepper, Eucalyptus, Ginger, and Peppermint are examples of “sensitive” oils.
• 30 mL/ 6 tsp/ 2 tbsp/ 1 oz = 18 drops
3% dilution
This rate is recommended for specific localized discomfort.
• 10 mL/ 2 tsp = 9 drops
• 15 mL/ 3 tsp/ 1 tbsp = 13 drops
• 30 mL/ 6 tsp/ 2 tbsp/ 1 oz = 27 drops
5% dilution
This rate is recommended for short-term use for a specific concern, no longer than two weeks.
• 10 mL/ 2 tsp = 15 drops
• 15 mL/ 3 tsp/ 1 tbsp = 22 drops
• 30 mL/ 6 tsp/ 2 tbsp/ 1 oz = 45 drops
10% dilution
This rate is recommended for small areas of concern and acute situations.
• 10 mL/ 2 tsp = 30 drops
• 15 mL/ 3 tsp/ 1 tbsp = 45 drops
• 30 mL/ 6 tsp/ 2 tbsp/ 1 oz = 90 drops