Hopefully I can help you to learn more about essential oils and how to use them safely as there is a lot of conflicting advice online about them.
As a certified aromatherapist and member of the International Federation of Professional Aromatherapists (IFPA) we do not recommend the use of any essential oils neat on the skin, because they can be harmful and cause severe irritation and sensitization.
You should always use them diluted in a carrier oil/substance. A 2% essential oil dilution is generally considered a safe guideline for topical application of essential oils on adults* . Dilutions are different for babies and children.
When I first trained we were advised we could use a single drop of lavender or tea tree neat on the skin but this advice has now changed as well.
Please be careful about any advice you read or hear that tells you to use essential oils neat on your skin. Only follow the advice of certified aromatherapists who a member of a professional body.
Feel free to ask any questions!
* How to make a 2% essential oil dilution. Take 30ml of a carrier (a cold pressed carrier oil e.g. grapeseed oil or lotion) and put 12 drops of your chosen essential oil in. If you are just starting out try lavander (lavandula angustifolia) or tea tree (melaleuca alternifolia).
