Glossary
Topical use means applying an essential oil blend to the skin, usually after the essential oil has been diluted in a carrier oil or another suitable base.
What Topical Use Means
Topical essential oil products include body oils, massage oils, balms, salves, lotions, creams, roll-ons, bath products, and natural perfume oils. The essential oil should be properly diluted for the person, body area, oil, and purpose.
Why It Matters
Skin use brings essential oils into direct contact with the body. This makes dilution, patch testing, oil-specific safety notes, phototoxicity, allergies, and sensitive areas important. Topical use should not mean applying essential oils undiluted as a casual habit.
Example in Essential Oil Use
A lavender body oil, diluted in jojoba or sweet almond oil, is an example of topical use. Applying undiluted peppermint oil to the skin would not be a safety-first beginner practice.