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Citrus Oils & Photosensitivity


This is an important topic to cover as we wrap up the series on citrus oils, so let's talk photosensitivity.

Photosensitivity is defined as an extreme sensitivity to UV rays from the sun and other sources of light and causes biological or chemical changes. Now, you may be wondering how this relates to essential oils, two words citrus oils. Citrus oil, like other citrus products, cause photosensitivity when exposed to UV rays for long periods of time.

Here's how it works:

Citrus oils contain something called furocoumarins, when a product containing this chemical is applied to the skin, the skin becomes sensitive to UV rays. When there is a higher concentration of furocoumarins, it causes the skin to become more sensitive. Henceforth, since citrus oils have higher levels of furocoumarins, they cause the skin to become photosensitive.

So what does this mean, you may ask. It means that it is important that if you are using citrus oils topically, you should avoid the sunshine and exposure to UV rays for at least twelve hours.

Here is a list of oils that may cause a photosensitive reaction:

Single Oils

  • Bergamot

  • Lemon

  • Lime

  • Cumin

  • Wild Orange

  • Tangerine

Oil Blends

  • Aroma Touch

  • doTERRA Breathe (Easy Air)

  • doTERRA Cheer

  • Citrus Bliss

  • Elevation

  • Intune

  • doTERRA OnGuard

  • doTERRA Forgive

  • doTERRA Modivate

  • Purify

  • Slim and Sassy

  • Zendocrine

The Essential Life: A Complete Guide to Living The Wellness Lifestyle. (3rd. ed.). (2017). Total Wellness Publishing.

PART 2: TOXICITY - Photosensitivity and Phototoxicity. (2017, April 28). Retrieved May 29, 2017, from https://doterra.com/US/en/essential-oil-safety-and-application-toxicity-photosensitivity-phototoxicity

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