The summer months are the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors with your family and friends. We know that many of you will be hitting the pool, enjoying family BBQ’s, or spending time in the mountains or at the beach.

Let’s ensure that you and your family stay healthy this summer:

1. Always check the label. Each essential oil has specific directions for use. Look at the labels and follow direction closely, especially if you are trying oils for the first time. Many oils need to be diluted with a carrier oil, like fractionated coconut oil. When applying to your face, avoid contact with your eyes, nose, or ears.

2. Store oils safely. With school out, young children have more time at home. They often are bored and spend their time exploring the home. Keep your oils in a safe place out of the reach of children. Remind your young children that essential oils should be used with a parent present.

A great way to include your children is to let them pick the oil you are going to diffuse. The uplifting or calming scents that fill your home can contribute to keeping a positive atmosphere and can help dispel hard feelings after an argument.

3. Photosensitive Oils: Be aware that some of your favourite citrus oils should be avoided topically before direct sunlight or exposure to artificial UV rays.

Photosensitive oils react to radiant energy or light such as natural sunlight, sunlamps, or other sources of UV rays. To avoid issues with photosensitive oils, wait a minimum of 12 hours before exposing skin where you have applied citrus oils to UV rays/ sunshine.

Citrus oils contain constituents that can cause photosensitisation of the skin. If exposed to sunlight (which gives off UV radiation) after topical application of a photosensitive oil, the skin may become temporarily darkly pigmented, red, or irritated. More extreme exposure may cause hives or burns.