Aromatherapy Aromatherapy Safety and Practice 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the maximum recommended dilution of essential oil for a facial application on an adult?
- 0.5-1% (Correct answer)
- 5-10%
- 15-20%
- 25%
Correct answer: 0.5-1%
Facial skin is delicate, so dilutions are kept low at around 0.5-1% to avoid irritation.
Question 2: Which essential oil is considered phototoxic and should be avoided before sun exposure?
- Bergamot (Correct answer)
- Lavender
- Peppermint
- Frankincense
Correct answer: Bergamot
Bergamot contains furanocoumarins that cause phototoxic skin reactions in sunlight.
Question 3: What does a carrier oil primarily do in aromatherapy?
- Dilutes essential oils for safe skin application (Correct answer)
- Increases the oil's potency
- Preserves the oil indefinitely
- Adds fragrance strength
Correct answer: Dilutes essential oils for safe skin application
Carrier oils dilute concentrated essential oils so they can be applied safely to the skin.
Question 4: Why should essential oils generally not be applied undiluted (neat) to the skin?
- They can cause irritation or sensitization (Correct answer)
- They evaporate too quickly
- They lose their scent
- They stain clothing
Correct answer: They can cause irritation or sensitization
Neat application risks skin irritation, burns, and long-term sensitization.
Question 5: Which method helps identify a potential allergic reaction before full use of an essential oil?
- A patch test (Correct answer)
- Inhalation only
- Heating the oil
- Mixing with water
Correct answer: A patch test
A patch test applies a small diluted amount to check for skin reactions before broader use.
Question 6: How should essential oils be stored to maintain their quality?
- In dark glass bottles away from heat and light (Correct answer)
- In clear plastic near a window
- In open containers
- In the refrigerator door with lids off
Correct answer: In dark glass bottles away from heat and light
Dark glass and cool, dark storage slow oxidation and preserve the oils.
Question 7: Which population requires extra caution and lower dilutions with essential oils?
- Young children (Correct answer)
- Healthy adults
- Athletes
- Middle-aged men
Correct answer: Young children
Children have more sensitive skin and systems, requiring much lower dilutions or avoidance.
Aromatherapy Aromatherapy Safety and Practice 2
What is the maximum recommended dilution of essential oil for a facial application on an adult?