How to Get Essential Oil Off Skin

The miraculous touch of essential oils is known to be the powerhouse of multiple healing benefits for our skin. They are extremely concentrated and intense for the skin. But are you aware that this soothing goodness of nature requires additional care for meticulous usage? In case you have accidently dropped these oils over your skin or clothes, you need to take additional care to eliminate them safely. 

For some, it might sound harmless, but recklessly removing essential oils might cause irritation and severe skin consequences. Ahead are a few skin-friendly and time-savvy solutions for how to remove essential oils from the skin, along with a quick care regimen that supports adequate guidance. 

Safe Step-by-Step Removal Method 

Dilute using carrier oil

The first and foremost important step is to dilute the essential oil using a mild carrier oil. This will help in neutralising the concentrated nature of essential oils that might trigger redness and irritation. A few best options include extra virgin coconut oil, jojoba oil, argan oil or any gentle vegetable oil. 

Clean gently

Use a paper towel or soft muslin cloth and wipe off the spilt essential oil by patting gently over the area. Avoid rubbing or creasing the skin, or it will further spread the oil over other skin areas. 

Rinse and Wash

Once you are assured that all the excess essential oil is dry. Apply soap or any mild cleaner gently and wash off using warm water. Repeat this twice to ensure that all the essential oils have been removed properly.

Soothe and Monitor Irritation

Keep a check on the affected area for the next 42 hours and avoid direct contact with sunlight. Apply aloe vera gel to soothe a burning or tingling sensation.  In case of the slightest discomfort, feel free to contact an expert for better guidance

How to Get Essential Oil Smell Off Skin

Once you are done cleaning off all the spilt essential oils, another challenging task is to get rid of their strong scent from your skin and clothes. A few individuals might think that frequent rinsing and washing can help, but no, it is not gonna be much effective method here. Here are three effective methods to eliminate the scent of essential oils from the skin.

Coffee-Aloe vera mix

Mix 2 tbsp of aloe vera gel in ground coffee powder and rub gently in circular motion over the affected area. After a 5-minute massage, wash off using lukewarm water and apply a gentle moisturiser. 

Baking Soda-Lemon Paste

Apply a thick paste of baking soda mixed with lemon juice and keep it for 15 minutes. This is one of the most conditioned and effective recipes to remove the strong aroma of essential oils from the skin. You can even use this tip for removing stains of spilt essential oil from your clothes, effortlessly. 

Olive oil-Vinegar

Massage the affected area with a proportionate mix of white vinegar and pure olive oil. This is a conventional method for removing essential oils from the skin. 

One can repeat cleansing and use deodorising remedies for quicker results. However, be mindful of the use of soaps and odorising substances, as they might trigger allergies and irritation at times.  

Face, Sensitive Skin and Safety Tips

There is an extensive need to keep a check on a few necessary safety tips to avoid mishaps. And it becomes more critical when it comes to sensitive areas like the face. 

• Maintain calm and protect sensitive receptors like the eyes and nose.
• Always avoid the mistake of using water to clean spilt essential oil, as water does not mix with oil and it might spread it to other body parts. 
• Do not rub or exfoliate the skin; it might trigger irritation and sensitivity.
• Use a mild carrier oil like extra virgin coconut oil or pure aloe vera gel to moisturise the skin and prevent irritation. 
• In case essential oil gets in your eyes, wash off immediately with normal water and dry using a cotton napkin. Do not rub or scratch the area and immediately seek medical advice to prevent mishaps.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the first thing to do if essential oil gets on the skin?

The first and foremost is to use a mild carrier oil like jojoba oil or sweet almond oil to neutralise the concentrated nature of the essential oil. This will help in preventing irritation and sensitivity. 

Can I use just water to remove essential oil from my skin?

A big no! Avoid using water to remove essential oil from your skin. The oleic profile of essential oil does not mix with water, and it can further spread to other body parts.  

Which carrier oils work best to get essential oils off skin?

One can adopt any mild carrier oil or vegetable oil to eliminate essential oils from the skin. A few best suggested options are Fractionated coconut oil, Jojoba oil, Grapeseed oil, Sweet almond oil and pure argan oil. 

How do I remove the essential oil smell from my hands fast?

Practice frequent cleansing and deodorising remedies for removing the smell of essential oil faster and effectively. 

When should I see a doctor after an essential oil spill on my skin?

It is best advised to visit a doctor as soon as you feel the slightest discomfort or irritation, as it might be an indicator of underlying discomfort or irritation. In case of sensitive areas like the eyes, immediate attention is required.