Photosensitivity, also known as phototoxicity, is a skin reaction that occurs when certain chemical compounds (called furocoumarins) on the skin are exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light, primarily from the sun or tanning beds. This reaction can lead to severe sunburn-like symptoms, blistering, inflammation, and long-lasting hyperpigmentation (skin darkening).
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How does this relate to lavender essential oil?
The good news is that pure Lavandula angustifolia (true lavender) essential oil is generally considered to be non-photosensitizing. This means it does not contain the significant levels of furocoumarins that cause phototoxic reactions. This makes it a preferred choice for skincare applications, even during the day, as long as it's properly diluted.
However, there are a few important nuances to consider:
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Species of Lavender: True Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia): This is the most common and safest type of lavender essential oil, and it is not photosensitizing. Lavandin (Lavandula x intermedia): This is a hybrid lavender that is often used as a substitute for true lavender due to its higher yield and lower cost. While lavandin contains higher levels of camphor and 1,8-cineole (which give it a sharper aroma), it is also generally considered non-photosensitizing. Spike Lavender (Lavandula latifolia): This species has a higher camphor content and is less commonly used in aromatherapy for relaxation, but it is also not typically associated with photosensitivity.
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Adulteration: A major concern with essential oils is adulteration. If lavender essential oil has been adulterated with other oils that are photosensitizing (e.g., certain cold-pressed citrus oils like bergamot, lemon, lime, or grapefruit, which are high in furocoumarins), then the adulterated product could potentially cause a photosensitive reaction. This is another strong reason to purchase lavender essential oil only from reputable suppliers who provide third-party GC-MS test reports, which verify the oil's purity and chemical composition.
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Individual Sensitivity and Irritation vs. Phototoxicity: While true lavender is not photosensitizing, it can still cause skin irritation or allergic reactions (contact dermatitis) if used undiluted or at too high a concentration, or if an individual has a specific sensitivity to its chemical components (like oxidized linalool or linalyl acetate). These reactions are different from phototoxicity and occur independently of sun exposure. A skin reaction after sun exposure following lavender oil application might be due to general skin irritation that was exacerbated by sun exposure, rather than a true phototoxic reaction.
In summary:
Pure Lavandula angustifolia (true lavender) essential oil and common lavandin varieties are not considered photosensitizing. This means you generally don't need to worry about increased sensitivity to the sun after applying properly diluted lavender essential oil to your skin.
The primary oils known for causing phototoxicity are cold-pressed citrus oils (especially Bergamot, Lemon, Lime, Grapefruit, and Bitter Orange), some root oils like Angelica Root, and others like Cumin and Rue. When using these oils, extreme caution and strict dilution guidelines (or avoiding sun exposure for 12-72 hours after application) are necessary.
The Lavender Farm in Door County Wisconsin emphasizes the purity and quality of their lavender products. When you buy lavender products online at islandlavender.com, you can feel confident in using their pure lavender essential oil topically without the concern of phototoxicity, provided you always use proper dilution and perform a patch test for general skin sensitivity.