Guidance on Essential Oil Dilution in Roller Bottles
Question
I need advice on how to mix essential oils in a roller bottle. If I use a 10ml bottle, what percentage of essential oil should I use? I've researched that 3% is suitable for daily use, but the scent is quite weak. I tried 5% and the scent is still faint. However, 10% gives a good scent for short-term use. I'm unsure what percentage is best and if using 10% frequently, perhaps for inhalation like smelling an inhaler, would have any negative effects.
Answer
Subject: Guidance on mixing essential oils in a roller bottle
Hello! Thank you for asking about mixing essential oils in a roller bottle.
It's great that you are diluting your essential oils. Essential oils are highly concentrated and should always be diluted with a carrier oil (like fractionated coconut oil, jojoba oil, etc.) before applying to the skin to avoid irritation or sensitization.
Regarding the dilution percentage for a 10ml roller bottle:
- 3% dilution: This is a common and safe concentration for daily use, especially for general well-being or for use on sensitive skin, children, or the elderly. While the scent might seem mild, it is generally sufficient for therapeutic benefits and is safe for regular application over larger areas.
- 5% dilution: This concentration is suitable for specific, localized concerns or for short-term use. It provides a stronger scent and effect than 3% but should still be used cautiously, especially on sensitive skin.
- 10% dilution: This is considered a high concentration and is generally reserved for acute situations, very small areas, or specific types of blends (like a muscle rub). Using a 10% dilution frequently, even for inhalation by smelling the roller, is generally not recommended for long-term or daily use.
Why is 10% potentially problematic for frequent use?
Even if you primarily intend to smell it, the oil will likely come into contact with the skin around your nose or mouth. High concentrations like 10% significantly increase the risk of skin irritation, redness, itching, or developing a sensitization (an allergic reaction that can occur after repeated exposure). Some essential oils are more irritating or sensitizing than others.
While you find the scent stronger at 10%, the potential risks outweigh the benefit of a stronger aroma for frequent use. If your main goal is a strong scent for inhalation, consider using an essential oil inhaler stick instead of a roller bottle. Inhaler sticks are designed for direct inhalation of undiluted or less diluted oils without significant skin contact.
For a 10ml roller bottle:
- 3% dilution = 30 drops of essential oil
- 5% dilution = 50 drops of essential oil
- 10% dilution = 100 drops of essential oil
(Note: The number of drops per ml can vary slightly depending on the oil's viscosity and the dropper, but 20 drops/ml is a common estimate).
In summary, while 10% gives a stronger scent, it's not ideal for frequent or daily use due to increased risk of skin reactions. For daily use, stick to 3-5%. If you need a stronger scent specifically for inhalation, an inhaler stick is a safer alternative.