I’m so glad you’re stopping by!

Today, I am quickly touching on a topic that is often, in the mainstream essential oil world, not talked about enough, or rarely even mentioned:

Photosensitization, or phytotoxicity.

What is photosensitization?

Photosensitization, or phytotoxicity, is defined as a reaction to a substance applied to skin that only occurs in the presence of UV light in the UVA range.

If an essential oil has this quality, meaning it contains constituents such as furocoumarins, coumarins, and/or linalol/linalool, it can lead to burning or skin pigmentation change such as tanning when exposed to sun or similar light (ultraviolet rays).

Depending on the dilution ratio of the essential oil that can cause photosensitization/-toxicity, dermal reaction might be very mild to severe. This can range from itching, slight reddening of the skin area, to even severe burn-like skin damage, depending on dose and light exposure. The area may stay sensitive in the future.

How do you avoid a reaction?

As a general rule of thumb, do not expose skin photosensitizing oils were applied to to direct sunlight within 12 hours after application. Also, avoid the tanning booth.

Which essential oils are phototoxic?

Most citrus oils can be phototoxic. It also sometimes depends on the method used to extract a specific essential oil from the plant (such as cold pressing or steam distillation, as the most common extraction methods).

The following is a list of the most common photosensitizers (may not be a complete list):

Expressed Lemon (Citrus limon)
Expressed Lime (Citrus aurantifolia)
Expressed Bitter Orange (Citrus x aurantium)
Expressed and distilled Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi)
Rue (Ruta graveolens)
Angelica Root (Angelica archangelica)
Bergamot (Citrus bergamia)
Cumin (Cumin cyminum)

Experience the benefits of essential oils - safely.

Knowing exactly which essential oils are part of the synergy intended for topical use allows you to make safe application choices and avoid potential photosensitization.

Questions? Don’t hesitate to reach out to me.