Staying Safe in the Sun with Aromatherapy
Jul 01, 2025 06:00AM ● By Roz Zollinger
As the long days of summer settle into Georgia, many like to enjoy the outdoors. But with the beauty of the season comes intense heat, high humidity and increased exposure to sun and insects. Aromatherapy can provide gentle, effective ways to support healthy skin and well-being through the warmer months.
Oils, the Sun and Phototoxicity
When using essential oils, it’s important to be aware that some oils can increase one’s skin’s sensitivity to sunlight and UV radiation. It’s called phototoxicity, which occurs when certain chemical compounds in essential oils, particularly furanocoumarins, react with UV light. It can lead to a reaction on the skin that mimics severe sunburn and can result in symptoms such as inflammation, blistering, reddening, burning and skin discoloration that can last for months.Oils to be cautious with include:
BERGAMOT (CITRUS BERGAMIA),
An aromatic citrus oil, bergamot hails from the Italian town of Bergamo and is also grown in Tunisia. It is cherished for its mood-boosting properties, particularly for easing depression and emotional tension. However, when applied to the skin before sun exposure, it can cause significant photosensitivity, resulting in severe sunburn or dark spots.
LIME (CITRUS AURANTIFOLIA),
Bright, fresh, and uplifting, lime essential oil is another summer favorite—but it’s also highly phototoxic. Even the juice of fresh lime on the skin can cause sun sensitivity. Use this oil in evening blends or after-sun applications only.
OTHER CITRUS OILS,
Oils such as lemon, grapefruit, tangerine and sweet orange also carry some risk of phototoxicity, although to a lesser degree. During the summer months, these are best reserved for post-sun care or nighttime use. It is mostly the cold-pressed citrus oils that react to the sun. However, steam-distilled versions of citrus oils have less phototoxicity.
Note: Always dilute essential oils before applying them to the skin. If you’re using a new oil, patch-test it before using it.
Sunburn Soother Recipe
If you do happen to overdo it in the sun, nature offers some tools for relief. Cooling aloe vera combined with skin-soothing essential oils can help reduce inflammation, ease discomfort and support skin repair. Here’s a cooling, calming blend for summer skin.
8 drops lavender essential oil
5 drops blue (German) chamomile essential oil
2–3 drops carrot seed CO₂ extract (optional for skin regeneration)
10 drops calendula-infused oil (optional for added healing)
Blend all ingredients in a clean glass or hard plastic jar. Apply gently to sunburned or irritated skin as needed. Store in a cool place and use within a few weeks. ❧
Roz Zollinger is the director and co-owner of Atlanta’s Heal Center and is recognized internationally for her contributions in the fields of reflexology, aromatherapy and energy healing. She pioneered Aromatic Reflexology and developed the Zollinger BodySystems Method of Reflexology/Aromatherapy.
