As we dive headlong into the warmer months here in the southern hemisphere, there is a call for those of us who enjoy aromatherapy and the outdoor life need to be mindful about the essential oils we are wearing on our exposed skin.
The following essential oils may cause skin pigmentation if exposed to direct sunlight.
- Bergamot
- Grapefruit
- Lemon
- Lime
- Mandarin
- Orange (Bitter or Sweet)
- Tangerine
- Verbena
- Angelica
- Virginian Cedarwood
- Coriander
- Eucalyptus Globulus
- Ginger
After Sun Care Aromatherapy
There are a few essential oils that may help when you have spent too long in the sun.
Lavender Essential Oil
Lavender (Lavendula officinalis) has been used in hospitals worldwide in the treatment of burns. It is an anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory, and promotes skin regeneration. It also seems to draw out the burn.
Peppermint Essential Oil
Peppermint (Mentha Piperita) essential oil (when used in small doses on your skin) has a wonderful cooling sensation to the skin. It also narrows the blood vessels.
Tea Tree Essential Oil
Tea Tree (Malaleuca alternifolia) in low doses is also good for inflamed skin, and it has properties which help with minor burns and skin lesions.
Geranium Essential Oil
Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) is another good essential for burns, blisters, and general skin health.
Roman Chamomile Essential Oil
Roman Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis) is wonderful for inflamed skin. It reduces redness and accelerates the healing process, and eases burning, blisters and itchiness.
How do I apply these oils?
There are numerous ways you can use these essential oils after you have been in the sun. You can immerse yourself in a bath with two tablespoons of apricot kernel or almond oil and up to 6 drops of essential oil(s) in total. You can also make a compress with the essential oils which you then place against the area of your skin affected by the sun.
A balm of shea butter and coconut oil with some vitamin c and e may also be used with the essential oils.
Be aware
Essential oils are to be treated with respect. Some people may react differently to the oils. If you have sensitive skin or have a medical condition it’s always recommended to consult your GP or at least a qualified Clinical Aromatherapist prior to using the essential oils.
As well as being the author of Peacock Dreaming: The Wisdom Of Flowers and Lovitude: Trying To Calm The Monkey Mind, Anne McCormack is also a qualified Clinical Aromatherapist who lives in works in Nelson, New Zealand. Anne has practised and presented courses and workshops in Australia, and has been a guest speaker for organisations such as the NSW Encore Support Group for Breast Cancer.
She is the creator of the Lovitude Series aromatherapy range which is available on this website and at Leasa Heart & Soul in Christchurch
Feature photo courtesy of Pixabay