Ever since essential oils made their way to the skincare aisle, there has been no turning back. Moving beyond just a bathtub staple, these elixirs have now become commonplace in skincare routines, from face washes infused with tea tree oil for combating acne to serums looking to tap into the anti-ageing properties of these oils. It pays to spare thought to how these products are being used and, more importantly, where. Here’s what we know:

Why is the under-eye area sensitive? 

Everybody knows that the under-eye area is thin and delicate, but few understand why. since it has fewer oil glands, this area of the face is prone to dryness and irritation, making it the first place to show signs of ageing, such as wrinkles and dark circles.

Factors that can further contribute to sensitivity in the under-eye area include sun exposure, allergies, rubbing or scratching the area and certain skincare products. It is advisable to use gentle, fragrance-free products in this area and to avoid rubbing the skin harshly.

Why should essential oils be avoided in the under-eye area?

Essential oils can be too strong for this delicate patch of skin, triggering irritation, redness or allergic reactions. some common side-effects include:

• Photosensitivity: some essential oils, such as citrus oils, can make the skin more sensitive to the sun, which can increase the risk of sunburn or other sun damage.
• Dark circles: essential oils like lemon, orange, and other citrus oils can cause dark circles around the eyes because of its photosensitivity.
• Rashes or breakouts: essential oils can clog pores, which can cause rashes or breakouts.
• Irritation and redness: essential oils are concentrated plant extracts that can be quite strong and cause irritation and redness if they come into contact with the eyes.
• Allergic reactions: some people may be allergic to certain essential oils, which can cause symptoms such as itching, redness, and swelling.

It is important to note that essential oils are highly concentrated, and they should be diluted before use and applied only after a patch test has been done to discern how it reacts with the skin. It is recommended to avoid using essential oils around the eyes entirely or to use them only under the guidance of a qualified aromatherapist or healthcare practitioner

What to do if you have applied essential oils around the eyes?

If you have applied an essential oil to the under-eye area and are experiencing any adverse effects such as irritation, redness, itching, or swelling, start by rinsing the area with lukewarm water to remove any excess oil. next, place a cold compress, such as a clean, damp cloth, over the affected area to help soothe the skin and reduce inflammation. if you have used an essential oil that can cause photosensitivity, it is important to avoid sun exposure for at least 12 hours after application. as a rule of thumb, ensure that you consult a doctor if symptoms persist or worsen.

What are the precautions to be observed with essential oils?

Ensure that you use pure, high-quality essential oils that are free of additives or synthetic ingredients and never use them undiluted on the skin as they can be strong and cause irritation or other adverse reactions. Apart from the under-eye area, avoid using them inside the ears, other sensitive areas of the body or on broken or irritated skin. It helps to dilute essential oils with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or jojoba oil, before applying them to the skin to minimise the risk of irritation.

Disclaimer: these are general guidelines not based on a personal consultation, always speak to your health care professional/nutritionist for specific issues.