Mistake 1. Leaving The Diffuser On For Hours

Using essential oils with a diffuser is generally safe as long as you don’t overdo it. Leaving the diffuser on for a long time may cause headaches, increased blood pressure, and allergic reactions. The recommended duration for each session is 30-60 minutes.

Mistake 2. Applying Undiluted Essential Oils

As highly concentrated plant extracts, essential oils may cause adverse reactions when they have direct contact with your skin. If you have sensitive skin, dilute them with carrier oils, such as olive oil and coconut oil.

Mistake 3. Overlooking The Quality Of Essential Oils

Since essential oils are not regulated by the FDA and hence have no quality guidelines, you need to be extra selective with the brands you choose. You should go for the industry leaders to get safer and purer oils.

Mistake 4. Using Photosensitive Essential Oils In The Sun

In case you don’t know, some essential oils are photosensitive, which means they will have chemical reactions in the sun. If you apply them and expose your skin to sunlight, the chemical reactions can lead to redness, itchiness, or even burns, and blisters.

Mistake 5. Using Essential Oils Around Pets

Beware if you have dogs or cats around your house because essential oils can be toxic to them. Remember to keep the oils and diffuser away from your pets, and be sure to keep your house well-ventilated.

Mistake 6. Storing Essential Oils Incorrectly

If you store essential oils in light-colored bottles, they’re likely to degrade over time because the sunlight they’re exposed to can alter their composition. Use dark-colored glass bottles instead to protect the oils from deteriorating. Plus, glass isn’t reactive, unlike steel, plastic, and many other materials.

Mistake 7. Assuming That More Is Better

Just because your essential oil has many therapeutic properties, it doesn’t mean that you can use it as much as you’d like. Inhaling too much essential oil can lead to migraines, nausea, and even trigger asthma attacks.

Mistake 8. Cleaning Up Spills With Water First

When handling essential oil spills, many people may turn to water first. However, this barely does anything because the oil doesn’t dissolve in water. You should reach for your carrier oils to dilute the residue.

Mistake 9. Neglecting The Age Restriction

Not every essential oil is suitable for children whose skin tends to be more sensitive than adults’. Pay extra attention to any age restrictions before using it on your kids.

Mistake 10. Recommending Essential Oils To Everyone

Although essential oils are generally safe and natural, they’re not for everyone. They might be harmful to those with asthma, sensitive skin, and respiratory problems. Think twice before you recommend them to your friends and family.