Essential Oil Safety Dilution Calculator

⚠️ Important Safety Information

Essential oils are highly concentrated and must be properly diluted before topical use. Never apply undiluted essential oils directly to skin. Always:

• Dilute essential oils in a carrier oil before use
• Do a patch test on a small area of skin first
• Start with lower dilutions (1-2%) for adults
• Use even lower dilutions for children, elderly, or sensitive skin
• Consult a qualified aromatherapist if unsure
• Some essential oils are not safe for topical use - research each oil
• Keep essential oils away from eyes, mucous membranes, and broken skin

How This Tool Works

This calculator determines the exact amount of essential oil needed for safe topical dilution. The dilution percentage represents the amount of essential oil relative to the total mixture. For example, a 2% dilution means 2mL of essential oil per 100mL of carrier oil. The calculation uses the formula: Essential Oil Amount = (Dilution Percentage / 100) × Carrier Oil Amount. This ensures you get the exact concentration needed for safe use.

The calculator converts the result to drops (approximately 20 drops per mL) for easier measurement, since most people don't have precise milliliter measuring tools. However, note that drop sizes can vary slightly between different essential oils and dropper types, so measuring by weight (using a scale) is more accurate for precise dilutions. The 20 drops/mL conversion is a standard average used in aromatherapy, but actual drop sizes may range from 18-25 drops per mL depending on the oil's viscosity and the dropper design.

Dilution Guidelines

• Adults (general use): 1-2% dilution
• Facial use: 0.5-1% dilution
• Children (6-12 years): 0.5-1% (consult professional)
• Babies/Young children: 0.25-0.5% (consult professional, many oils not recommended)
• Elderly or sensitive skin: 0.5-1% dilution
• Short-term use (spot treatment): Up to 3-5% (use with caution)

FAQ

• What is a safe dilution percentage?
  For most adults: 1-2% dilution is safe for general use. For children: 0.5-1% (consult professional). For babies: 0.25-0.5% (consult professional). For facial use: 0.5-1%. Always do a patch test first.
• How many drops are in 1mL of essential oil?
  Approximately 20 drops per mL, though this varies slightly by essential oil type due to different viscosities. This calculator uses 20 drops/mL as a standard average.
• What carrier oils should I use?
  Common carrier oils include jojoba, sweet almond, fractionated coconut, grapeseed, and apricot kernel oil. Choose based on your skin type and the intended use. Avoid using essential oils undiluted.
• Can I use essential oils undiluted?
  No, never use essential oils undiluted on skin. They can cause irritation, burns, or allergic reactions. Always dilute in a carrier oil before topical application. Some oils are not safe for topical use at all.
• What should I do if I have a reaction?
  If you experience irritation, redness, or burning, immediately wash the area with soap and water. Apply a carrier oil (not water) to help dilute the essential oil. If reaction is severe, seek medical attention.