Essential oil safety Part 2:

Photosensitive/Phototoxicity: This is when certain essential oils are exposed to the sun and can cause burning, inflammation, reddened skin, blisters, and peeling of the skin. The best thing to do is to avoid direct sunlight or wait 12 hours after applying to go in the sun. Look for oils that contain furocoumarins, or FCs. Not all oils though with FCs are phototoxic. Look out for these FCs: bergapten, methoxsalen, psoralen, and oxypeucedanin. On each of the websites where you buy the oils from you will find a warning if it is photosensitive.

Kid Safety: Don’t let children use essential oils alone. When you start off using oils on a child please make sure you dilute them before using. Children have sensitive skin compared to adults. Start with one drop and dilute with 4 drops of carrier oil. It is recommended that you only use 2 drops at a time on a child. Less is more and using small amounts multiple times a day is better than using large amounts once a day. Of course discontinue if there is any negative reaction. Many essential oils companies offer kid safe oils!

*Pregnancy and pets change things so use caution as well.