Yes, it is possible to be allergic to even very pure and high quality essential oils!
Anyone who tells you that you cannot be allergic to essential oils or that when skin irritation arises in response to the use of essential oils (for example hives, rashes, itching, etc.) it means that your body is “detoxing” and that you need to continue to use oils is misinformed (please see postscript below about the emotional origin of allergies).
Top quality essential oils do not contain synthetic ingredients or other contaminants. This reduces the chances of adverse reactions. But all essential oils are extremely concentrated and are undoubtedly capable of inducing immediate or delayed hypersensitivity reactions in certain people and under certain conditions. In these instances, the offending substance should be withdrawn immediately.
Essential oils are safe when used according to common sense cautions. They are, however, not a modality where “more is better”. It should be our goal to avoid inducing a hypersensitivity reaction in the first place because in some cases, once stimulated, hypersensitivity can persist for life, thus depriving the affected person of the benefits of that essential oil. For this reason (among others) diluting essential oils may be the most effective and safe option. Although this article will emphasize cautions and points of concern, it is important to remember that essential oils are inherently benign and can be used safely by the vast majority of people, from children to elderly, as long as they are used in reasonable quantities and according to common sense guidelines.
Definitions
According to Mosby’s Medical Dictionary, an allergic reaction is “an unfavorable physiological response to a substance (called an allergen) to which a person has previously been exposed and to which the person has developed antibodies.” According to the same dictionary, an allergen is “a substance, which may not be intrinsically harmful, that can produce a hypersensitivity reaction in the body.”
The nature of allergens
Almost all allergens (whether pollen, dust, dander, or other substances) are proteins or polypeptides. Both proteins and polypeptides are large molecules made up of strings of amino acids. Some polypeptides contain just a few amino acids, while some proteins contain dozens, hundreds, or even thousands of amino acids. But the bottom line is that polypeptides and proteins are large molecules. Essential oils are manufactured by a process of distillation and distillation only allows for extremely small molecules in the finished product. Most proteins and polypeptides are from 100-1000 times larger than the largest compounds found in essential oils.
The absence of polypeptides and proteins in essential oils is the reason that many people are able to use essential oils produced by plants to which they are allergic without any problem. For example, my husband is very allergic to black pepper. If he consumes even the smallest amount of black pepper, his tongue will itch, his throat will swell, and he will sneeze for hours. He can, however, use Black Pepper essential oil without any reaction at all. Mountain cedar is a common allergen to many residents of Central Texas. The cedarwood essential oil we use is distilled from the same plant, but it does not trigger an allergic reaction in many who are allergic to mountain cedar pollen, whether it is applied topically or used aromatically.
It is the absence of polypeptides and proteins in essential oils that causes some people to claim that it is impossible to be allergic to an essential oil. Unfortunately, however, the truth is more complicated than that.
Circumstances under which essential oils can act as allergens
Phenols
While the vast majority of allergens are protein or polypeptide in nature, phenols are one type of compound found in essential oils which can, in some cases, elicit a true allergic response. Potentially allergenic phenol compounds found in essential oils include phenolic ethers, phenolic sesquiterpenes, and phenolic diterpenes. Examples of essential oils that contain these substances include:
- Clove
- Fennel
- Basil
- Cypress
- Clary Sage
Haptens
Some essential oils contain compounds that can act as haptens. A hapten is a small, reactive molecule that, when combined with a skin protein, can cause the formation of antibodies and lead to an allergic reaction. This means that certain essential oils are capable of eliciting a true allergic response, even though they do not contain polypeptides and/or proteins themselves.
It is difficult to predict which essential oils will act as haptens, but it does seem clear that oxidized essential oils are much more prone to induce allergic contact dermatitis, perhaps by acting as haptens. Essential oils become oxidized when they are exposed to air and this process is sped up by exposure to heat and/or UV light. For this reason, essential oils should be stored in amber or other colored glass bottles and should be kept in a temperature-controlled and ideally dark environment. For maximum shelf life, consider storing your essential oils in the refrigerator. Do not leave essential oils in your car or other circumstances where they will be exposed to high heat and keep essential oils in the smallest possible container (to minimize contact with air).
Essential oils that are more likely to cause sensitization if oxidized include:
- Black pepper
- Citrus oils (lemon, lime, grapefruit, bergamot, and wild orange)
- Cypress
- Fennel
- Frankincense
- Jasmine absolute
- Juniper berry
- Melaleuca
- Rose
- Spruce (found in Balance blend)
Keep in mind that, even when kept under ideal conditions, essential oils do not last forever. According to Robert Tisserand, consider discarding opened bottles of essential oils after:
- Citrus, Lemongrass, Frankincense, Melaleuca, and Spruce oils – 1-2 years
- Virtually every other essential oil – 2-3 years
- Sandalwood, Vetiver, Patchouli – 4-8 years
How do you know when an oil is oxidized? Often citrus oils will become cloudy or develop sediment at the bottom of the bottle. Oils that were originally blue will turn greenish. The oil will not smell as fresh as it once did (although, because oxidation takes place gradually, it can be hard to perceive the change in odor without comparing the essential oil to a freshly opened bottle).
Possible skin reactions
Essential oils can induce three types of skin reactions:
- Irritation
- Sensitivity, aka contact dermatitis
- Photosensitivity
Irritation
An irritation reaction occurs very rapidly, within seconds to minutes of exposure. When irritation occurs following exposure to essential oils, typically the reaction is non-allergic in origin. This type of reaction typically causes a red wheal or burn and the sensation associated with this type of reaction is heat or burning. The most common cause of this type of reaction is an essential oils that is high in phenols (for example oregano, clove, or thyme) or aromatic aldehydes (for example cinnamon).
To manage this type of reaction, immediately dilute the offending oil by applying a carrier oil and follow up by washing with warm water and plain soap. Do not wash first with water, as this will push the oil deeper into the skin. Generally this type of reaction can be avoided by diluting “hot” oils to no more than 2-5% strength.
Sensitization, aka allergic contact dermatitis (ACD)
This type of reaction develops over time — multiple exposures to the offending oil are required. At the first exposure, no reaction is evident. But then with subsequent exposure(s) (sometimes even after days, months, or even years of use), a rash or hives develop. In severe reactions, other signs such as sneezing and shortness of breath may be evident as well.
Patient characteristics that increase the risk for the development of ACD:
- Use of multiple medications.
- Compromised antioxidant status (due to inadequate diet or chronic illness).
- The presence of other allergic conditions, such as asthma, eczema, and/or hay fever.
- Application of essential oils to damaged, inflamed, or irritated skin.
- Psychological stress.
- Advanced age (peak incidence around age 60).
- Female gender.
- Personal or family history of dermatitis
Variables of application that increase the risk for the development of ACD:
- Highly concentrated or neat application of essential oil(s). The key factor here is “dermal loading” or the dose per unit area of skin exposed. This means that one drop of essential oil applied to one square inch of skin is much more likely to cause ACD than one drop of essential oil applied to one square foot of skin.
- Frequent application of essential oil(s). Repeated exposure to the same essential oil over time increases the risk of developing ACD.
- Use of certain essential oil(s) that are more likely to trigger ACD. Certain essential oils are more likely to trigger ACD than others.
- The presence of contaminants or adulterants in the essential oil(s).
- The use of oxidized or denatured essential oil(s). See the list above of essential oils that are more likely to trigger sensitization when they are oxidized.
- The use of isolated chemical constituents from essential oil(s), as opposed to intact essential oil(s) with the full complement of naturally-occurring components present.
- The use of essential oils in combination with synthetic chemicals that act as irritants. Examples of such chemicals include surfactants in soaps and synthetic preservatives.
- Application conditions that result in enhanced absorption of essential oil(s). These conditions include things like covering the site of application with an occlusive dressing, applying heat on top of the application site, and using sensitizing essential oils in conjunction with “driver” oils such as peppermint or blends containing peppermint.
Photosensitivity
Photosensitivity is an interaction between a component in the essential oil, the skin, and UV photons. Photosensitivity reactions can range in severity from slight darkening of the skin at the site of application to the development of a blistering burn. The development of a photosensitive reaction is delayed, with a peak at 36-72 hours after UV exposure. Post-inflammatory skin-darkening may persist for weeks or months after the acute inflammatory phase.
The most common chemical component in essential oil that causes photosensitivity is furanocoumarins. These substances are found mainly in cold-pressed citrus oils, including:
- Bergamot (the most likely to cause photosensitive reactions)
- Lemon
- Lime
- Grapefruit
- Wild Orange
Note that when citrus oils are prepared using steam distillation, the photosensitizing chemical constituents are excluded and therefore the resulting essential oil will not trigger a photosensitive reaction.
Exposure to UV light should be avoided for 12-18 hours following the application of most citrus oils and for up to 72 hours following Bergamot oil. The safest practice is to avoid applying photosensitizing oils to skin that is exposed to light and to avoid applying Bergamot oil to the skin altogether (it can be used safely via diffusion).
Common sense cautions for avoiding skin irritation with essential oils
- When possible, dilute essential oils, especially in patients at risk for developing ACD.
- Always dilute “hot” oils such as oregano, thyme, clove, cassia, and cinnamon before applying them to the skin.
- If a rash, irritation, or itching develops following essential oil exposure, stop using essential oils until the problem clears up.
- Use the lowest effective concentration, particularly when you are using essential oils on an ongoing basis.
- Use special caution if you fall into a category that places you at higher risk for developing ACD (above).
- Protect essential oils from oxidation by replacing caps immediately after use, keeping them in amber glass containers and preferably in a dark location, protecting them from heat, keeping them in the smallest possible container to minimize exposure to oxygen, storing them in the refrigerator, and discarding them according to the time frames above (or sooner if you see or smell evidence of oxidation).
- Do not apply photosensitizing oils to skin that is exposed to UV light. Do not apply Bergamot essential oil to the skin at all.
- Eat a healthy diet and take supplements in order to maintain good antioxidant status.
- Consider using essential oils internally rather than topically (if appropriate), as sensitization is less likely to occur with the internal use of oils.
- Avoid using essential oils along with other cosmetics or chemicals, as these other products may potentiate sensitization.
- If you are a person who is prone to the development of ACD (above), avoid conditions that enhance the absorption of essential oils, such as covering the site of application with occlusive dressings, applying heat over the site of application, or using “driver” oils such as peppermint along with other oils.
Postscript
Regarding the emotional origin of allergies — I absolutely believe that emotions can play a role in the development of allergies. In fact I think of allergies as a phobia of the immune system, which gives me important insight about how to handle them.
Imagine a person who has a phobia of snakes. No sane or compassionate individual would attempt to fix this problem by placing the phobic individual in a dark closet with a pile of writhing of snakes (like a bad reality TV show). To do so would induce out and out panic and would virtually guarantee that a minor phobia would become lifelong and severe.
In the same way, a person who has developed a sensitivity to an essential oil should NOT continue to be exposed to that oil in a misguided attempt to “detox”. Instead we should wait until the reaction has completely settled down and the body and the immune system is generally in a calm state. Then the oil can be reintroduced in a VERY gradual and cautious way (in small quantities, not on consecutive days, etc), always watching for evidence of a reaction.
Please refer to this excellent article from the Tisserand Institute for more information on this important topic.
References:
Essential Oil Safety, 2nd edition by Robert Tisserand and Rodney Young. Churchill Livingstone, 2014.
I’ve developed acd from using Frankinsense. I’m broken out in VERY itchy rash where I’ve applied eo. I have used Frankinsense for several months with no problems. I appreciate this article because I wasn’t sure what was happening.
I do have one question. Will I not be able to ever use Frankinsense again now that my body is reacting to it this way?
It is hard to say whether or not you will ever be able to use frankincense again. I would encourage you to allow the reaction to settle down completely and then wait a couple of months. After that you can gradually expose yourself to very small amounts of the oil and see what happens.
jUST WANTED TO KNOW WHAT WILL STOP THIS ITCHING BROKE OUT IN HIVES FROM USING STRESS RELIEF OIL WENT TO HOSPITAL GAVE ME BENEDRYLE
I have developed a rash in the back of my neck where I have been applying [trademarked product name and company name redacted]. It is red, bumpy and very itchy,as is my scalp. I use the roller ball for application. I believe I have developed an allergy. Shame, it works so well.
If you are having a reaction, stop using it!! That means your body is fighting it! Why is it so important to submit yourself to the reactions?
Hi, thank you for this article. My 5 year old has developed nail fungus on her thumb. After doing a little research, I went ahead and wiped her nail a mixture of eucalyptus tree oil and olive oil. This evening she broke out in a rash and is having a hard time sleeping. I have given her Claritin, but it doesn’t seem to help. I feel awful about not having done more research and thereby causing my baby discomfort. Any suggestions?
Hello Diana. Not knowing details about the eucalyptus oil that you used, it is hard to say whether your daughter is reacting to the oil itself or artificial ingredients that may have been added to it. Commonly available oils like eucalyptus (when they are purchased in regular stores) are rarely pure and often contain synthetic ingredients. One way or another, if her itching persists you might need to consult her physician. The worst cases of hypersensitivity sometimes end up requiring topical or oral medications. For future reference, check out this article about proper dilution of essential oils: http://bodymindmend.com/three-reasons-to-consider-diluting-essential-oils.
I have a fragrance allergy but really want to have a massage at a nearby salon. However, they use lavender, cedar and vanilla essential oils for their massage. Is it still okay for me to go there or is it possible I will have an allergic reaction?
I would approach this with caution. In many cases “essential oil” massage products are actually made with synthetic fragrances. You can learn lots more about this problem in Dr. Robert Pappas’ Facebook group Essential Oil University (https://www.facebook.com/EssentialOilUniversity/). He has subjected many products to laboratory analysis and found that they are often not what they claim to be. If I were you I would request that the massage therapist use an unscented product for my massage.
I needed to read this today! Broke out in a nasty rash on my inner wrists a few weeks ago and didn’t make the connection to essential oil use, until this morning when my neck was completely covered in hive looking rash. I had stopped using Frankincense on my wrists and started using on back of neck and behind ears.. is quite obvious reading this now that I am having an ACD reaction and need to stop all oils for a while! Thanks for the info
Hi there, last night I added 8 drops of lemongrass essential oil and 5 drops of tea tree to my 240ml bottle of witch hazel toner and this morning after waking up I have noticed that my chin is itchy. I am just wondering, was the essential oil concentration too high? Thanks in advance!
Did you see this article, Rachel http://bodymindmend.com/three-reasons-to-consider-diluting-essential-oils? 240 ml is 4800 drops, meaning that your solution was a 0.2%. This would generally be considered a safe dilution if you were using an OIL as your carrier. Because you were using witch hazel, however, the essential oils likely did not disperse evenly in the solution and your skin may have been exposed to a much higher concentration than you intended. I have found lemongrass to be particularly prone to causing sensitization, especially when used repeatedly.
Please note: witch hazel makes me itch all by itself, so maybe it wasn’t the EO but rather the WH…?
Hello, I made a body scrub today and I experienced a bit of swelling between two of my knuckles , about the width of a dime. It didn’t itch or anything, but it has me worried because it’s the first time I’ve used essential oils and I was anxious about trying it. It’s the end of a long day and I’m tired and my muscles feel sore. I’m hoping its from all the running around that I did today, but im a little unsettled. Here’s my recipe:
1 cup + 1 tbs brown sugar
About 1 tbs Cracked sea salt
4tbs organic coconut oil
4tbs extra virgin olive oil
3 tbs apricot oil
2tbs organic argan oil
1 1/2 tbs vit e oil
6 drops lavender essential oil
I love the way my skin feels! Maybe it’s unreasonable for me to have any concerns! But I’m worried.. Did I use too much lavender essential oil?
In the context of this recipe 6 drops of lavender oil is not likely to be too much, assuming that it is pure essential oil as opposed to a synthetic or perfume-type oil. The possibility exists that you are sensitive to the coconut, argan, or apricot oils.
I currently just used the blend of Joy 9 (4 drops) and Lime (2 drops) within minutes I am sneezing, eyes are slightly irritated and runny nose. Any idea what in this blend is causing this reaction?
Diffusing
Off the top of my head I don’t know what all is included in the Joy blend, Sven. I would encourage you to take a look at the list of ingredients and compare it to the oils mentioned in this article as especially prone to causing sensitivities.
I have been using 100% pure essential oil for more than a year with no issue, however couple of months ago I started to develop a rash on my stomach when using my regular lavender oil. I’m not sure what trigger this reaction. I immediately stop using the essential oil and apply coconut oil to ease the rashes and itchiness, it took few weeks to fully recover. About a month later, I applied peppermint on my temple which I used to when having headache, I felt my skin burning after application instead of the cooling effects which I used to experience. And I noticed my skin was slightly darkened as if I had sun burn on my temple. I’m not sure why this sudden change in reaction after using the essential oil as I have been using the same oil without dilution for more than a year in the past with no issue. I’m really very sad about it and hope to find the root cause. Hope u can give me some advice.
Essential oils are not to be applied undiluted. The root cause is a skin sensitization has been developed over long term use of straight e.o. even though you didn’t have any adverse reaction to it. Dilution, dilution and dilution.
This is exactly what I have been experiencing! I have been using CPTG essential oils for over a year & all of a sudden a few moths ago I started having rashes with my lavender. I’m surprised because I’ve never had allergies or skin sensitivities before. Lavender is one of the most gentle oils & used for skin so I’m sad & frustrated about my reactions. Even diluted I get a rash. It’s also one of my favorites. I’m hoping I will be able to use it in the future. I’m glad I found this thread so at least I’m not alone!
I am relatively new to essential oils . Just yesterday I blended frankincense with lavender and some coconut oil. I have heard that frankincense is good to boost immune system. I have some form of an autoimmune disorder with myalgia in my upper arms and legs , joint pain and swollen lymph nodes under my arms. I tried taking a Fran pill from a natural health store, but immediately felt flushed and light headed so I didn’t try them again, I thought may be my imagination and tried the frankincense essential oil and it happened again.. does that sound like an allergic response ?
I have been using essential oils for over a year. And slowly one be one all the oils I have been using has caused the same reaction. I thought I was imagining it also! I have been looking up reactions and this is the first personal experience I have come across. Thank you!
In a diffuser, 4 drops of peppermint, 4 drops of frankinscense, and 2 drops of rosemary. Burning eyes, runny nose, and subsequent stuffy nose. I noticed Frankinscense on your list, but I think that was skin… What should I cut out. I was hoping to use these in my classroom for clarity.
My coworker uses a large range of the essential oils. After sharing an office for about 6 months I started have nausea, become light headed as well as asthmatic symptoms. Now I can’t even be in a room with her without becoming faint. I went to an essential oils sales booth and had the same reaction. This is very alarming. I do have fragrance allergies.
It sounds like you have developed a strong sensitivity that will likely get worse if you continue to be exposed to essential oils. I think you need to make it clear to your coworker that her oils are a hazard to your health. She wouldn’t dream of smoking in your office; in the same way she needs to stop diffusing essential oils and/or wearing them on her body to work.
I love your sensibilities! Unfortunately she is in denial and won’t take responsibility. I was wondering if you had heard of other similar reactions? This has added a tremendous amount of stress to my work life. She has been moved out of my office but is still in my section of the building. There are days when I continue to have reactions. I feel strongly that the heavier the concentration of what she uses the stronger my reaction. I appreciate your input!
Yes, I have heard of other similar reactions. It is not unheard of at all.
Kristen I have a question. could you receive an allergic skin reaction from using e.o., but in a different location than where you used that e.o.?
Yes, that definitely can happen.
How did you solve this? I rent an office in a suite, and a massage therapist recently moved in. She uses a LOT of essential oils. Spoke to her about my allergies and she was nice but nothing has changed. I may need to move my office! Any suggestions?
Someone complained that my diffusing made her so ill she needed to be off work for three days which included a hospital trip. I sympathized, however, I knew her lifestyle habits were awful and that she used Clorox wipes daily. Turns out, after research, every symptom she had was from the wipes.
I voluntarily did not diffuse when she was in the office but I also felt she was making herself sick.
There are a lot of unknowns w Linda’s situation. What kind of oils, how much oil, what kind of diffuser, how long is diffuser running, what are Linda’s habits…
Oil Lady, I have never heard of Clorox wipes sending a person to the hospital. I have, however, heard of people being made very sick by being exposed to essential oils (even very pure ones) being diffused by a co-worker. Since the publication of this article dozens of people have reached out to me and told me stories very similar to Linda’s. Her experience (and the experience of your acquaintance) is not all that unusual. These reactions can happen even to people with ideal “lifestyle habits”. Using essential oils is your choice, but you should not force them on others in your environment and you should definitely not point the finger at another person’s habits when your oils make them sick.
I have allergies to fragrances and friends have told me that I should not be allergic to essential oils since they are”natural”. I love my friends but my reaction to these oils is severe. I get pain on one side of my head and then feel sick as if I were coming down with the flu. The pressure on the one side of my head continues into the next day. People are known to have allergies to natural substances such as seasonal allergies to ragweed, etc. Why is there a disconnect in thinking on this?
My daughter has several warts on the bottom of her foot. Being new at the oils I applied lemon on the bottom of her foot without diluting. Will she be fine?
I love adding about 4 drops of lemon oil to a quart of water that I drink on over a couple hours. I noticed today an itchy throat with a little cough. I don’t know if it could be related or just what it going around. Have you heard of this happening? I took an allergy pill just to be on the safe side.
Yes, that could be a reaction to the lemon oil. It’s important to keep in mind that water does not dilute essential oils. The oil floats to the top of the water, so mucus membranes in the lips, mouth, and throat are coming into contact with concentrated oil as you drink the water. When this is done on an ongoing basis the risk for developing sensitivity increases.
Can eucalyptus, or lemon being diffused cause a skin reaction? Would the reaction he right away? Are most skin reactions to oils right away or can some appear a day or so later?
Yes, eucalyptus and/or lemon diffused can cause a skin reaction. The reaction may be immediate or delayed.
Concerning your comment on the emotional effect of allergies, do you mean to say that a person suffering from allergies is actually suffering from a mental disorder?
Further, you advise that if someone is claiming to be allergic, that they wait for symptoms to subside, and then you introduce a smaller amount of the claimed allergen. Do you have a recommendation as to what constitutes this smaller amount?
I believe it should also be noted that if one were to take this route with another person, that it should be done with their expressed consent.
No, I am not saying that people with allergies are suffering from mental disorders. I am saying that emotional phobias and allergies are similar in the sense that they involve an extreme aversion to something that (for other people) is a normal part of the environment, whether that is spiders or heights (in the case of phobias) or pollen or essential oils (in the case of allergies).
I cannot offer a blanket recommendation regarding what constitutes a “smaller amount”, as it would depend on the substance, the mode of exposure, and other aspects of the individual’s health. In the case of topically applied essential oils, a “smaller amount” would be a very highly diluted preparation, perhaps a single drop in several teaspoons of carrier oil.
Of course one would never expose another person to a suspected allergen without their consent.
I have been getting tiny red spots around my eye and I can’t figure out what it is. I use an oil moisturizer from a brand named kosmatology and January I started using lavender oil on my breakouts. Could I be having reaction to the lavender?
I am not familiar with the Kosmetology line but, yes, it does sound like you might be reacting to essential oils. It often takes a few months of daily exposure before you start seeing problems. I would encourage you to stop the lavender and the oil moisturizer (if it contains essential oils) and see if the problem clears up.
Kristen thank you so very much for this article. I have been using [brand name redacted] essential oils since June of 2015 with no issues and amazing results! In December of 2015, I developed really bad eczema on my eyelids, and neck then it moved to my stomach, arms and hands. I don’t generally go to the doctor, so I was trying to relieve it myself. Finally, I went to my PCP in February who said it was contact dermatitis. I wasn’t using anything new. It started to get worse, so I saw a dermatologist on Monday who said it was a severe case of eczema and she suspects that it’s the EO’s. I didn’t think she knew what she was talking about since all she believes conventional medication. I was in denial about it being the EO’s since I love them and have gotten such great results. My life revolved around using these oils. I finally got frustrated when I broke out on another area of my body where I didn’t have eczema and came across our article. I am heartbroken and don’t know what to do. EO’s help me so much and I’m not someone who I would have described as having sensitive skin before this happened. It’s so hard to pinpoint which oil it might be as I can easily apply up to 8-10 oils (diluted) at a time. Hope you can give me some advice. Thanks so very much!!
Hello Crystal. Unfortunately I think that what you are experiencing will become more and more common in coming months and years. I suspect that there are thousands of people who are heavy/daily users of essential oils today who will eventually go onto develop troublesome sensitivities. I can understand your heartbreak but at this point your only real option is to discontinue the use of all essential oils long enough for your skin to clear up completely. This could take a while. Once that has occurred, you will need to reintroduce diluted oils one at a time and very slowly (no more than one new oil per week) in order to monitor for reactions. Even if you find that you are able to reintroduce some oils without a reaction, keep in mind that your body has shown you that it is capable of developing sensitivities (meaning that you need to be very careful about daily and/or undiluted use of any oil). Unfortunately once you’ve developed a sensitivity it is often lifelong.
As an aside, I would encourage you to speak out about your experience. By educating others who have not yet developed sensitivities about the importance of diluting oils and rotating the oils you use on a daily basis you can help them to avoid the frustrating situation in which you find yourself now.
Kristen, thank you so much for your reply. You have a wealth of knowledge and I appreciate your feedback.
Blessings!
Crystal
This happened to me too Crystal, I’d probably been using EOs 2 years or more when roughly 3 months ago I had a massive allergic reaction and couldn’t pin point what it was, it was under my arms, up my neck, on my eyelids, top lip and at one point I swelled so much I was unrecognisable. I went on steroids but at the end of the course my hives would return. I think when I tried to use my homemade EO deodorant after a break from it was when I realised what was the cause. I stopped using the face products and everything and it cleared up completely 🙁 I tried a hormonal blend on my belly yesterday after weeks of no use and it gave me a very itchy burn like mark. I have a huge stock of oils and I think I’m going to have to say good bye to them. I believe all it started when I put franki on a scar (to reduce the scarring) on my leg that I’d done by scraping it down the front of a wooden box, I would get a reaction and it would start to get infected. I diluted and tried helichrysum and another reaction/infection. I can’t even use the muscular ease blend without a reaction now. So upsetting. My friend believes it is an emotional reaction, like I’m not happy with aspects of my life and I’m repressing it and it is manifesting itself as a reaction to the EOs, is that possible Kristen?
Several years ago I used essential oils on specific spots for emotional/psychological therapy. It caused itchy welts. I have continued to use oils with no reaction but recently my skin became irritated again. I am thinking that it may be in response to my blood issues …perhaps parasites, fungus, virus, or cancer.
A friend of ours gave my husband some lavender oil to help him sleep, but as soon as he opened it I began to cough and get choked up. He even tried diluting it but this didn’t help. I was looking for a headache remedy and they all say to use lavender oil. Is there another one that can be used in place of it?
I gave someone a heavily diluted sample of vetiver that sent her into such a severe allergic reaction she had to get 2 steroid shots on her foot. Have you heard of reactions to Vetiver? I am wondering if it is the coconut as the carrier as well?
Thank you do very much for tote article! I’ve tried to understand what’s happening to me, I’ve been using lemongrass on my feet (for thyroid) and peppermint directly on my thyroid, for about 3 weeks. Saturday my feet became swollen and horribly itchy! I’m going insane! LOL Now it looks like I have blisters on my toes, and my neck has broken out. Did I mention it’s very itchy!
Since reading your article, I’m convinced is an allergic reaction, but how do I get rid of it. Or help it not itch so bad. I’m going crazy. I’ve stopped using the oil, I’ve tried benadryl cream and pills. Thank you so much for helping. Be blessed! Reba
Lemongrass is a strong oil, high in Aldehydes, and should never be used undiluted. Try organic, cold pressed and unfiltered avocado oil or use organic, cold pressed virgin coconut oil. Hope you get better soon!
Hi. I’ve been using pure argan oil before on my face and it broke me out. I stopped using it on my face but I recently started putting some on my finger nails and toe nails to ‘moisturize’ it. I didn’t check how many days I’ve used it. Maybe a week? I don’t dilute it. I just put some drops on a cotton and put it on my nails. After reading this article, I’ve been wondering if I should stop using argan oil on my nails. I did have a reaction when I placed some on my face and I’m afraid that I might have a reaction sooner or later. So far, my nails are smooth (I first put some lemon juice- that I cut- on my nails before putting argan oil shortly afterwards).
Argan oil is not an essential oil. It is possible to be allergic to it, however. If you reacted to this oil on your face you are likely to eventually react to it on your fingers.
Detox proponents may claim that essential oils cannot possibly cause allergic reactions because they don’t contain proteins, or that pure, unadulterated essential oils could not. Therefore, in spite of uncomfortable symptoms, the person should keep applying the oil. Let’s take a closer look at these claims.
HELP! I have a very sensitive face and am very careful about what I use on it. I was introduced to EOs recently and purchased a blend containing clove and cinnamon. I put a few drops in a Scentsy-type of warmer (as recommended by the friend who introduced me to EO’s). I did this a few times over the course of the day. By evening I noticed I had broken out along my jawline on one cheek. By morning I had about 20 blister-like spots on that same cheek and 10 on the other. I have not used the EO since that first day. I cleaned out the warmer I had used, I’ve double bagged the bottle of EO so I don’t come in contact with it. It’s now 3 days with out any oil and my face is covered with small blisters. I’ve been taking benadryl and using benadryl cream and it seems to be getting worse by the hour. I’m not one to run to the doctor but I don’t know what else to try. Have you heard of anything like this happening?
Yes, these kinds of reactions are particularly common with hot oils like cinnamon and clove. It can take a long time for the reactions to settle down and go away.
Hi! My daughter has eczema but has not had flares in a while. She is turning 12 this year and recently I noticed some blemishes on her face and I tried an EO acne recipe to help clear it up (lavender, melaleuca and clary sage diluted in coconut oil). She cleaned her face with a cotton ball soaked in the oil and then rinsed her face off in the shower… Her face started getting redder and after a few days she broke out all over her chest, stomach and back. I stopped using the oils and gave her antihistamines but days went by without her getting better… I finally took her to her pediatrician but she didn’t think it could be an allergy to EOs. She asked for some tests and put her on a diet thinking it might be food related. However, after reading about reactions here, it sounds like it very well could be caused by the EOs… Should I stop using them altogether? How about using them on myself? Would that cause a reaction too?
Yes, you need to stop using oils on your daughter immediately. People with eczema are particularly prone to adverse reactions to essential oils. Their skin does not act like a normal barrier and so they are much faster to develop sensitivity. In your daughter’s case probably what happened is that the warm water in the shower caused the oils she applied to her face to stream down over her chest and abdomen.
Hi there! I work in a retirement community and four individuals have broken out with swelling around the neck and lips. I don’t touch these residents but I do use essential oils personally (a variety) and I wanted to know if any oils could commonly cause reactions, especially through the air. Thank you.
Yes, sensitive people can react to oils with skin irritation, even when the oils haven’t been applied to them directly. This is particularly true of babies, small children, and the elderly. In my opinion essential oils should not be diffused in workplace or in health care settings and should not be worn to work, especially by health care providers.
My baby has broken out in his arms, hands, legs, feet, and his diaper area! I’ve been using doterra oils for weeks and in the past few days have diluted everything in roller bottles. All of a sudden this rash comes on and is just getting worse. I usually apply the oils on his body or feet. Not his limbs. His body is clear! Is it possible the rash is still caused the oils?
Yes. It is likely that the oils are causing the problem. Especially in children reactions can show up in places other than where you applied the oil. You need to stop using oils on your child completely, even diluted roller bottles.
I have Welps swirly ones and it burns and itches I think it may be from peppermint oil I didn’t delete it I use it what can I use to get rid of it I think it may be allergic reaction to it..I stop using it I got meds cream makes it go away and then it comes back
Are most reactions to oils at the site of application? I have been having reactions in multiple spots (currently my inner wrists, some fingers and one elbow) but none of these are areas I apply oils. It’s very itchy, red, and bumpy. I almost always apply to my feet. Have you heard of a correlation between the two? My doctor is ready to send me for allergy testing because they can’t figure out what’s going on. Thanks!
The site of the reaction is often (but not always) the site of application. Before you proceed with allergy testing I would completely discontinue use of oils for several weeks and see if your skin problem improves.
I belong to a yoga studio that uses peppermint & eucalyptus EO in 3 diffusers in a heated class. I have gradually been getting sicker and sicker after attending class to the point now that my sinuses ache and throb and my nasesu has me in bed for a few hours. I had a hard time figuring out what it was until recently. I love this yoga studio but I cannot go thru this experience again. Have you heard of this
Yes, I think that your reactions are most definitely associated with the oils. If you are exercising in a heated environment with three diffusers you will be absorbing a lot of the oils. All you can do is bring your reaction to the attention of the studio owners. I suspect that you are not the only participant who finds the oils unpleasant or overwhelming. Perhaps they could offer a no-oils class in their schedule for people who feel like you do.
I mixed 2 drops vetiver 2 drops bergamont in a 10 ml bottle of carrier oil, massaged some on my feet for insomnia. About an hour later my feet were burning like crazy and I had these spazms all over my body, I get these from things like ibuprofin, tylenol, red wine and a few other things (dr doesn’t know why) but this reaction was way worse usually it is only in my feet and legs. I immediately washed my feet, the spasms stopped and the burning lessened. I wondered if it wasn’t mixed well enough or am I sensitive to vetiver. Ever heard of a reaction like this?
I developed a red wheel on my forehead from lavender oil a month ago. It’s still there.
I used Franken on my skin cancer cleared it up but shortly after developed cellulitis in that area. Was on antibiotics and steroids for a month. Tried it again year later same thing..
Why?
Always dilute all essential oils to 1-5% strength for adults. No doctor I’ve consulted, nor credible research I’ve read, has ever recommended the use of these powerful medicines on infants. Please further research your claim about the use of essential oils on infants.
Thank you for the article. I feel like I have come to terms or answer to my issues. I started using EO several years ago because I had daily headaches. Several months after using them I started getting a rash at site of application. I stopped using it and will breathe it in. Or put on my feet. Then I started getting this intense itch ok my hands. Even my eye and that side of my face was swollen. (No oils used in those areas ) I stopped using oils all together. I started using another nutritional supplement that help detox and help with immune support, antioxidants, etc. I got relief to why I started EO. Still using that supplement now for a year. On occasion I would use EO on my kids and get my itch/rash on my hand. (Note always on my left side of my body). Just recent I noticed under my eye was puffy. Just thought bad skin care. This morning. My eye almost swollen shut. I don’t get it. Please for your help.
I have experienced a severe allergic reaction to lavender oil: itchy skin rash all over the neck and anywhere on the face I happened to touch it. The only thing that brought almost instant relief was shea butter mixed with olive oil 50/50 – both organic. Excess can be blotted off with a tissue.
Wow, I’ve had a terrible case of hives- 1/2 my face, 1/2 my chest, 1/4 of my abdomen and back for about about week. I’ve been using neat Frank for months. I do remember using it the day I started breaking out and would never have made the connection without this article. Thank you SO much. EO’s are so powerful and should be used with care. I know a massage therapist friend who was selling and using [brand name redacted] oils every day in her practice and started throwing liver enzymes. She finally stopped- I think the [trademarked name redacted] therapy is so excessive! Dilute, dilute dilute…
I had been using [brand name redacted] Clary Sage on my inner elbows a few times a day for a month (my mother told me to apply to the bottoms of my feet, but I didn’t listen). Then after a trip to Mexico exposed to UV rays for a week, I developed a small, itchy red whelp where I had applied the Clary Sage oil. I have stopped using it all together. Over the past 2 months it has spread considerably and isn’t getting any better. Any thoughts to what I can do to heal this and get it to go away?
Hi!
I was using a product with essential oils. After a few I suddenly developed a rash. I will get some allergy pills in two days but I was wondering what I could do to get rid of the rash. I stopped using the oils ofcourse. not wearing makeup, cleaned my face with coconut oil and then lots of water. Also I am wondering how long it will take for the rash to go away. It has almost been a week now.
I started using [brand name redacted] pre-diluted roll on [proprietary blend name redacted] on my feet for 4-5 days in a row. I had never used essential oils before. I started breaking out in itchy spots all over my body on the 5th day and have had new spots daily for three days. After accessing what it could be, including insect bits, I’ve come the conclusion that it could be the oils. The oils include, lemon. clove, eucalyptus, cinnamon cassia, rosemary, frankincense, tea tree, and sweet orange. Do you believe the oils are the cause of my breakout?
Is it possible to have an allergic reaction to defused oils? I have recently started using a defuser and in the last week I have developed a terrible cough, DR said it’s an allergy to something in the air. Could it be the oils i’m using?
Yes, it is definitely possible to be allergic to diffused oils.
I used Eucalyptus oil in hot water as a sore foot soothe and broke out in tiny blisters on my ankles at the level of the water. The blisters weeped and were really itchy. Ended up covered in scabs from scratching then a purple rash. Won’t do that again!
Thank you so much for your thorough article. I have eczema and have had it for years. A few years ago I started to have more and more issues- specifically on my hands. I’ve done environmental allergy testing and was advised to do the chemical patch test. So, in July 2016 I did the testing, and I am allergic (not just sensitive to) to all fragrances-including essential oils, tea tree oil, gold, and a mild blue dye allergy. The patch test was performed on my back. The positive reactions were extremely itchy and blistered- the reaction remained on my back for about a month. I was pretty upset when I found out I was allergic to essential oils/ but I’m so glad I now know. I was told by my allergist to avoid all of these substances- and that I would be allergic to them for the rest of my life. I’m pretty sure my overuse/misuse of essential oils especially while my skin was in an active eczema flare led to this allergy. Also to note, I used high quality essential oils. I would suggest anyone who is experiencing eczema or any adverse type reactions to please visit an allergist so he/she can do the proper testing in office. Thanks again for taking the time to write this and for your knowledge. There are so many diy skin care recipes on the web, etc- -and so much misinformation specifically about using essential oils. My story and all those who have commented above are perfect examples re- chemical allergies or sensitivities.
Thanks again.
After I read your article I’m pretty sure now I have an allergic reaction to oils. I had a severe rash on my hands a few months ago and my dermatologist said it is probably eczema and prescribed hydrocortisone. Since then I can only control the rash and itching with hydrocortisone. If I skip a day it comes back. A few days ago I developed a similar rash on my neck and it’s spreading to my chest and back. I stopped putting oils on my face and neck. Can I still diffuse oils and use my other oil infused products like toothpaste, laundry soap, dishwasher powder, [proprietary product name redacted] (it contains citrus oils and wolfberries). I’ve been switching to oil products slowly and now I have so many things I use daily. I also took for the first time the allergy trio (lemon,lavender, peppermint) in a capsule. If I apply on my son oils in rollers would that be bad for me? How can I take care of the rash ? I don’t want to be on hydrocortisone for months/years as my Dr said happens to other patents.
The reason that you have developed this allergy is that you have exposed your body to essential oils from all directions. Stopping applying oils topically is a first step, but I think that you are unlikely to bring your itchy rash under control if you continue to be exposed to essential oils internally, by diffusion, and by way of things like laundry detergent and toothpaste. At least for the time being you need to eliminate your exposure altogether. I would also encourage you to think carefully about the oils you are applying on your child, particularly if you using them on daily/ongoing basis. If you have developed this allergy then your child is likely to have a predisposition to the same thing. Wouldn’t it be a shame if your child were to develop a lifelong sensitivity to something common like lavender, rendering him unable to be exposed to common products like scented soap or lotion without having an uncomfortable reaction? Check out this article: http://www.atlanticinstitute.com/blog/2014/3/16/sensitization
Hi I have a question plx
I just used almond oil and argan oil randomly on my face few says and it was undiluted, after few I started getting acne and bumps on my skin , I might 26 and never had acne problem, I m really concerned about it plz help me
Hi,
I have been using essential oils for about 3 months now, mostly diffusing them. Over the last month I have been experiencing abdominal pain, sore throat, swollen glands, sneezing, relfux like symptoms…enlarged nodules on my tongue and feeling like I can’t swollow. Could there be any chance that the oils are causing these symptoms? And how will I know?