The Biggest Essential Oil Myth That’s Still Confusing Everyone (And What You Actually Need to Know)

Essential oils have become part of everyday life — from skincare routines and diffusers to wellness rituals and home care. But with their popularity comes misinformation. One myth, in particular, continues to circulate and can cause more harm than good if not properly understood.

Let’s clear it up — simply and honestly.

Myth: “Because essential oils are natural, they’re always safe to apply directly to the skin.”

This is one of the most common essential oil myths — and one of the most misleading.

Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts. It can take kilograms of flowers, leaves, bark, or roots to produce just a few millilitres of oil. That concentration is what makes essential oils powerful — but it’s also why they must be used with care.

Natural does not always mean gentle.

The Truth About Essential Oils & Skin

When essential oils are used incorrectly, especially undiluted, they may cause:

Skin irritation or sensitivity

Redness or burning sensations

Allergic reactions

Long-term sensitisation (where skin reacts more strongly over time)

This doesn’t mean essential oils are unsafe — it means they are potent tools that require knowledge.

Why Dilution Is Essential

Proper dilution is one of the most important rules in essential oil use.

Essential oils should almost always be blended with a carrier oil (such as sweet almond, jojoba, sunflower, or coconut oil) before being applied to the skin.

Dilution:

Protects the skin barrier

Reduces the risk of irritation

Allows safe, consistent use

Still delivers effective results

Using essential oils correctly doesn’t weaken them — it allows them to work in harmony with the body.

Social Media vs Real Essential Oil Education

Many myths are reinforced through social media videos showing oils applied directly to the skin without explanation. What’s often missing are:

Proper safety guidelines

Individual skin differences

Long-term effects of misuse

True essential oil education focuses on balance, safety, and respect for the plant, not quick trends.

Learning to Use Essential Oils the Right Way

Safe and effective essential oil use includes:

Understanding dilution ratios

Knowing which oils are skin-friendly

Learning when oils should not be applied topically

Matching oils to specific skin or wellness needs

This kind of knowledge transforms essential oils from guesswork into intentional self-care.

Learn More With Our Digital Guides

If you want to understand essential oils without feeling overwhelmed, we’ve created two easy-to-follow digital resources:

🌿 Essential Oils Made Simple (E-book)

A beginner-friendly guide designed to help you confidently use essential oils in everyday life.

Available on our website:

👉 www.lolasbeautyessentials.co.za

🌿 The Oil Code (Digital Guide)

A deeper dive into essential oil use, blending basics, and understanding how oils interact with the body.

Also available at:

👉 www.lolasbeautyessentials.co.za

Both are paid digital products that you can download instantly and revisit anytime.

Now Available In-Store: Aviva Essential Oils

For those who prefer physical products, we are happy to stock Aviva Essential Oils at our store.

You can explore the range and receive guidance on how to use them safely at:

📍 28 Blackberry Mall, Strandfontein Village, Cape Town, South Africa

These oils are suitable for:

Aromatherapy

Skincare (with correct dilution)

Wellness and home use

Education is always encouraged — feel free to ask questions in-store