A phototoxic essential oil is one that contains compounds that can cause skin reactions when exposed to sunlight, particularly ultraviolet (UV) light. These reactions can range from mild irritation or burning to more severe skin damage, such as blistering or pigmentation changes. Phototoxicity is primarily associated with certain citrus oils (e.g., bergamot, lemon, lime) and other essential oils that contain furanocoumarins or other photosensitizing compounds. To avoid adverse effects, it's recommended to avoid sunlight or UV exposure for a period (usually 12-24 hours) after applying these oils to the skin.
Essential oils, CO2 extracts, and absolutes differ in their constituents from batch to batch, as well as depending on their origin and method of production. We recommend referring to the list below when making your own EO blends, especially in summer. If you are using a new material that is not on the list, it is still highly recommended to perform a patch test to monitor any skin allergies or sensitivities, and to avoid sunlight for the next 12-24 hours.
Non-phototoxic citrus & leaf oils:
Bergamot oil (FCF), Lemon oil (distilled), Lemon leaf oil, Lime oil (distilled), Mandarin oil, Orange oil (sweet), Orange leaf oil, Satsuma oil (expressed), Tangelo oil, Tangerine oil, Yuzu oil (expressed or distilled).
Possibly phototoxic:
Clementine oil, Combava fruit oil, Skimmia oil, Angelica root absolute, Angelica root CO2, Celery leaf oil, Cumin seed absolute, Cumin seed CO2, Khella oil, Lovage leaf oil, Parsnip oil.
Known to be phototoxic:
Bergamot oil, Fig leaf absolute, Grapefruit oil, Lemon oil (expressed), Lime oil (expressed), Mandarin leaf oil, Orange oil (bitter, expressed), Rue oil, Angelica root oil, Cumin oil.