Skin rash is a common condition resulting from infections, distorted skin, inflammation, or discoloration. Allergens, irritants, and autoimmune disorders also play a significant role in skin rashes. If you have ever experienced a skin rash, you may know how troublesome and embarrassing it is. Dealing with these rashes or getting rid of them is not a pleasant experience. This article details the most commonly used essential oils for skin rashes.
But before we dive deep into the best essential oils for a skin rash, we need to understand what essential oils are.
What Are Essential Oils?
Essential oils are plant extracts obtained from seeds, flowers, and leaves through the process of distillation or cold pressing which retain the aroma and characteristics of the plant.
They have been used to treat a variety of skin conditions – and in aromatherapy to relieve stress and anxiety for hundreds of years. When applied to the skin, they not only treat skin rashes but also relieve itching and dryness, and prevent infections.
See also: Essential oils for itchy skin
Essential oils possess powerful antibacterial, antiviral and antiseptic properties which help prevent infections and improve skin health. Besides relieving inflammation, itching, redness, and pain, they may also cause skin irritation. It is, therefore, advisable to consult a dermatologist or a certified aromatherapist before applying these natural oils regularly to your skin.
Essential Oils for Skin Rashes
Some essential oils have the potential to balance moisture and relieve itching from skin rashes resulting from psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. Some commonly used essential oils for skin rashes include lavender oil, peppermint, geranium, tea tree, eucalyptus, patchouli, chamomile, and rosemary oil to name a few.
1. Lavender Oil
Lavender oil has been used for many years due to its ability to treat skin rashes. This oil obtained from lavender bush possesses a pleasant and calming aroma and contains powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Owing to its astringent properties, lavender oil helps relieve inflammation on the skin. It also provides relaxation and soothing effects to the skin, helping to relieve discomfort, itching, and rashes on the skin.
In ancient times, Europeans used this oil in bathing as they believed that the oil helped wash their skin.
To relieve skin itching and rash, take a few drops of lavender oil and mix with a tablespoon of some carrier oil like argan, olive, or almond oil and apply on the affected area 2-3 times a day.
In addition to treating skin conditions, lavender oil is also used in aromatherapy to relieve stress and anxiety and improve sleep quality.
See Also: Essential Oils for Sunburn
2. Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil extracted from peppermint plants possesses a characteristic aroma and has been used to treat almost all types of itching. It is packed with bioactive compounds like menthol and menthone which are powerful antimicrobial agents. Peppermint oil contains analgesic and cooling properties which help soothe irritated skin, treat skin rash, relieve inflammation and alleviate pain.
Owing to its antiseptic activities, this oil helps relieve various skin conditions and protects from environmental irritants.
For topical use, mix a few drops of peppermint oil in one tablespoon of carrier oil and apply to the affected skin parts. Repeat as needed.
In addition to relieving skin conditions, peppermint oil is also used topically to relieve headache, joint pain, itching, and muscle pain.
3. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is obtained from an Australian plant known as Melaleuca alternifolia and possesses potent antiseptic properties. It has bioactive compounds such as terpinen-4-ol which has the potential to fight various bacteria, viruses, and fungi thereby helping to prevent infections.
Various studies have proven the effectiveness of tea tree oil against a variety of skin conditions such as skin rashes resulting from psoriasis, eczema, insect bites, and fungal infections.
Because of its antimicrobial and antiseptic properties, tea tree oil is used as an active ingredient in various skincare cosmetics.
For skin rash treatment, take five drops of tea tree oil, mix it with a carrier oil and apply to the affected part.
Besides treating skin conditions, tea tree oil is used as a natural deodorant, hand sanitizer, a mouth wash, and to repel the insects.
See Also: Essential Oils for Skin Tightening
4. Geranium Oil
Geranium oil extracted from geranium flowers possesses potent skin healing properties. It gives a floral rose-like scent and has been used as an active ingredient in perfumes and cosmetics.
According to a review study, geranium essential oil is packed with antibacterial, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory properties which make it an effective remedy for acne, itching, rashes, and skin infections.
Moreover, the antioxidant activities of geranium oil help manage diabetes, prevent allergies, protect from neurodegenerative diseases and relieve edema. It has also been used in aromatherapy to relieve stress and anxiety.
5. Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus oil is obtained from the oval-shaped leaves of the eucalyptus tree and boasts many benefits to skin and overall health. Native Australians have been using eucalyptus oil to treat wounds and prevent infections due to its antimicrobial properties.
This oil is used as an active ingredient in various creams and ointments which are prescribed to relieve various skin conditions such as itching, wounds, skin infection and rashes.
Also, eucalyptus oil is used in mouthwashes, to relieve joint pains, as an insect repellant, and to relieve chest congestion and cough.
6. Sandalwood Oil
Sandalwood oil is extracted from sandalwood trees and possesses a woody fragrance which makes it great to add to perfumes and cosmetics. It contains powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, emollient and astringent properties making it an ideal choice for treating skin conditions. Sandalwood oil helps relieve skin irritation, alleviate inflammation, prevent infections, and soothe skin rashes caused by eczema. It hydrates the skin, promotes wound healing, and triggers the growth of skin cells.
A study revealed that sandalwood oil, when used in combination with turmeric cream, resulted in reduced rash and skin discoloration. To relieve skin conditions, mix a few drops of sandalwood oil with one teaspoon of carrier oil and apply topically to the affected area.
Sandalwood oil is also used in aromatherapy to calm the mind, relieve stress, promote sleep and improve focus and alertness.
Tips and Guidelines on Using Essential Oils for Skin Problems
- Essential oils are concentrated extracts obtained from plants and should be used after diluting with some carrier oils. Essential oils when used undiluted, may lead to skin irritation, rash, and allergic reactions.
- It is suggested to do a small patch test to check the reaction of essential oils on the skin. Do not use the oil if it causes any allergic reaction.
- In addition, some essential oils may prove poisonous if absorbed directly through the skin.
- Also, note that the application of some citrus essential oils such as lemon, orange, and lime may result in phototoxicity if applied before direct sun exposure.
- It is recommended to avoid the ingestion and internal use of essential oils in the mucous membrane, mouth, and vagina to avoid adverse effects.
Essential Oil Recipe for Skin Rashes
- 15 drops rosemary essential oil
- 10 drops lavender essential oil
- 5 drops tea tree essential oil
- ½ cup argan oil (because it’s effective for soothing rashes)
- Mix essential oils with carrier oil thoroughly. Apply to the affected area. Repeat as needed.
Conclusion
There are several essential oils to use for skin rashes that may be effective. Lavender oil is known for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, while tea tree oil has natural antiseptic qualities. Chamomile oil is also beneficial for treating skin rashes and can be used either alone or in combination with other oils.
If you are interested in using essential oils to treat your skin rash, it is important to do some research to find the right blend of oils for you. There are many online resources available that can help you get started – we have also given an easy DIY recipe to help. With a little experimentation, you should be able to find an essential oil blend that provides relief from your skin rash symptoms.
References
Peppermint Oil | NCCIH (nih.gov)
Tea tree oil attenuates experimental contact dermatitis – PubMed (nih.gov)
Commercial Essential Oils as Potential Antimicrobials to Treat Skin Diseases – PMC (nih.gov)
Antibacterial and antifungal activity of ten essential oils in vitro – PubMed (nih.gov)
Sandalwood scent facilitates wound healing an | EurekAlert!
Re-discovering Sandalwood: Beyond Beauty and Fragrance – PMC (nih.gov)