Aromatherapy Safety and Practice Flashcards

What is the maximum recommended dilution of essential oil for a facial application on an adult?

Answer: 0.5-1%

Facial skin is delicate, so dilutions are kept low at around 0.5-1% to avoid irritation.

Which essential oil is considered phototoxic and should be avoided before sun exposure?

Answer: Bergamot

Bergamot contains furanocoumarins that cause phototoxic skin reactions in sunlight.

What does a carrier oil primarily do in aromatherapy?

Answer: Dilutes essential oils for safe skin application

Carrier oils dilute concentrated essential oils so they can be applied safely to the skin.

Why should essential oils generally not be applied undiluted (neat) to the skin?

Answer: They can cause irritation or sensitization

Neat application risks skin irritation, burns, and long-term sensitization.

Which method helps identify a potential allergic reaction before full use of an essential oil?

Answer: A patch test

A patch test applies a small diluted amount to check for skin reactions before broader use.

How should essential oils be stored to maintain their quality?

Answer: In dark glass bottles away from heat and light

Dark glass and cool, dark storage slow oxidation and preserve the oils.

Which population requires extra caution and lower dilutions with essential oils?

Answer: Young children

Children have more sensitive skin and systems, requiring much lower dilutions or avoidance.