Essential Oils & Skin: What You Need to Know About Safe Use

Essential oils are potent and aromatic plant extracts loved for their therapeutic effects and natural appeal. People use them in all sorts of ways—some add them to bathwater, some use them in diffusers, others blend their own skincare, and a few even take them orally (though this should only ever be done under medical supervision).

But not all methods are safe, especially when it comes to direct application on the skin. Unfortunately, there’s a growing misconception—especially online—that essential oils can be used neat (undiluted) or without careful consideration. This blog aims to clarify how to use essential oils safely on the skin and explain how this differs from the carefully balanced, professional use in obobobu products.

1. Essential Oils Are Powerful—Dilution Is Key

Essential oils are extremely concentrated. Just one drop can contain the essence of dozens of plant parts. While this makes them wonderfully effective, it also means they must always be diluted with a carrier oil or appropriate base before touching your skin.

Recommended dilution rates (per 30ml / 1 oz of carrier oil):

• Facial use (normal skin): 1%–2.5% (6–15 drops)

• Body care (adults): 1%–3% (6–20 drops)

• Children/sensitive skin: Max 0.5%–1% (3–6 drops)

This is very different from how we use essential oils at obobobu. In our soapmaking, we use only tiny, precisely measured amounts, following expert safety standards approved by qualified cosmetic chemists. This ensures you get the benefits—without the risk.

2. Home Use vs. Professional Formulation

At home, people may be tempted to make their own blends or follow DIY recipes from the internet. But applying essential oils directly to skin, using excessive amounts, or mixing incompatible oils can lead to irritation, sensitisation, or long-term skin damage.

In contrast, our approach is grounded in evidence-based practice and safety assessments. Each essential oil in an obobobu bar is included:

• At a skin-safe dilution

• Chosen not only for scent but for skin-supportive properties

3. Photosensitive Oils – Handle With Care

Some essential oils, particularly citrus ones like bergamot, lemon, and lime, can cause skin sensitivity when exposed to sunlight—a reaction known as phototoxicity. This is especially risky when these oils are used in leave-on products.

At obobobu, we use phototoxic-safe versions (like Bergamot FCF) or avoid these oils altogether in our leave-on formulas, to protect your skin while still offering uplifting scents.

4. Every Skin Is Different – Do a Patch Test

Even natural ingredients can cause a reaction, especially on sensitive or compromised skin. If you’re trying a new product or oil:

• Dilute it according to guidelines

• Apply a small amount to your inner forearm

• Wait 24 hours before full use

This is a simple but effective way to check for sensitivity.

5. Not All Oils Belong on Skin

Some essential oils are best reserved for diffusion or scent—not skincare. Oils like camphor, or pennyroyal are far too strong for topical use and can be harmful if misused. Just because an oil smells nice doesn't mean it's suitable for your skin.

6. Special Considerations – Pregnancy, Children, Health Conditions

Pregnant or breastfeeding? Some oils should be avoided entirely, such as clary sage. Children’s skin is much more delicate—only the gentlest oils, in extremely low dilutions (0.25%–0.5%), are appropriate.

Skin conditions, asthma, or allergies? Always seek professional advice before introducing essential oils.

Final Thoughts

Essential oils are extraordinary—they can uplift, calm, cleanse, and nourish. But they are also potent, and their strength demands respect and knowledge. At obobobu, we harness essential oils with care and precision, always prioritising safety, efficacy, and skin wellbeing. Our customers can enjoy the therapeutic experience of essential oils without worry, thanks to professional formulations and strict quality standards.

If you're experimenting with essential oils at home, always follow safe practices, consult reputable sources, and when in doubt—less is more.