Yes, lavender essential oil can be used as an insect repellent on skin, but it is crucial to dilute it properly with a carrier oil before application. Applying undiluted essential oils directly to the skin can cause irritation, sensitization, or allergic reactions.
Here's why and how to use it safely and effectively:
Why Lavender Essential Oil Works as a Repellent on Skin:
-
Linalool: As previously mentioned, this is the primary compound in lavender essential oil responsible for its insect-repelling properties. Linalool can interfere with a mosquito's ability to locate a host and makes the scent unpleasant for them.
-
Strong Scent: The robust, aromatic scent of lavender is generally disliked by many insects, including mosquitoes, flies, and even some ticks.
Safety and Dilution are Key:
Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts and should never be applied "neat" (undiluted) to the skin, with very few exceptions (and even then, only for specific purposes and with caution).
Recommended Dilution Ratios for Skin Application as an Insect Repellent:
-
General Purpose / Adults: A typical dilution for an adult-strength repellent is 5% to 10% essential oil. This means:
-
For a 5% dilution: 5 drops of essential oil per teaspoon (5 ml) of carrier oil.
-
For a 10% dilution: 10 drops of essential oil per teaspoon (5 ml) of carrier oil.
-
-
Children (older than 2) / Sensitive Skin: Use a lower dilution, typically 1% to 2%. This means:
-
1-2 drops of essential oil per teaspoon (5 ml) of carrier oil.
-
Always consult a pediatrician before using essential oils on very young children or infants. Many sources advise against essential oil use on babies under 3 months, and some extend that to under 2 years.
-
-
Carrier Oils: Choose a light, non-comedogenic carrier oil such as:
-
Fractionated Coconut Oil
-
Jojoba Oil
-
Sweet Almond Oil
-
Grapeseed Oil
-
How to Make and Use a Lavender Repellent for Skin:
-
Choose a Carrier Oil: Select your preferred carrier oil.
-
Mix: In a small, dark glass bottle (to protect the essential oil from light degradation), combine your chosen carrier oil with the appropriate number of lavender essential oil drops based on your desired dilution.
-
Shake Well: Shake the mixture gently to ensure the essential oil is thoroughly dispersed in the carrier oil.
-
Patch Test: Before applying to a large area of skin, perform a patch test. Apply a small amount of the diluted mixture to an inconspicuous area of skin (e.g., inner forearm) and wait 24 hours to check for any redness, itching, or irritation.
-
Apply: Once you've confirmed no reaction, apply a thin layer of the diluted lavender oil to exposed skin as needed.
-
Reapplication: Natural repellents generally require more frequent reapplication than synthetic ones. Reapply every 1-2 hours, or more often if sweating or swimming.
Important Safety Precautions:
-
Purity of Oil: Use only 100% pure, therapeutic-grade Lavandula angustifolia (true lavender) essential oil from a reputable source. Avoid "fragrance oils" or synthetic versions, which do not offer repellent benefits and can contain irritants.
-
Avoid Eyes and Mucous Membranes: Do not apply the oil near your eyes, mouth, nose, or other sensitive areas. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with a carrier oil (not water, as oil and water don't mix).
-
Broken or Irritated Skin: Do not apply essential oils to broken, irritated, or sunburnt skin, as this can increase absorption and the risk of adverse reactions.
-
Allergies: If you have known allergies to lavender or other plants in the mint family, avoid using lavender essential oil.
-
Pregnancy/Breastfeeding/Medical Conditions: If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have any underlying medical conditions, consult your doctor or a qualified aromatherapist before using essential oils topically.
-
Not a Replacement for EPA-Registered Repellents: While lavender can be effective, for areas with high mosquito populations or where mosquito-borne diseases are a concern (e.g., West Nile Virus, Zika), public health organizations like the CDC often recommend EPA-registered insect repellents, which include certain plant-derived options like oil of lemon eucalyptus (PMD). Lavender is a good natural alternative for lighter protection or when you prefer a more natural scent.
By following these guidelines, you can safely use lavender essential oil as a natural insect repellent on your skin.