Essential Oil Dilution Calculator
Calculate safe dilution ratios for topical essential oil use. Get exact drop counts based on your chosen carrier oil, amount, and dilution percentage.
Essential Oil Dilution Calculator
Calculate safe dilution ratios for topical essential oil use
Regular massage, moisturizing, general body use
Antimicrobial, acne, fungal
Face, all skin types • Absorption: medium
Common sizes: 10ml (roller), 30ml (1 oz bottle), 60ml (2 oz), 120ml (4 oz)
Your Recipe
Generated at OrganicExpertise.com
Always perform a patch test before first use. Never apply essential oils undiluted to skin.
Important Safety Information
- • Always perform a patch test before first use
- • Never apply essential oils undiluted to skin
- • Keep away from eyes, inner ears, and mucous membranes
- • Consult a healthcare provider during pregnancy
- • Not for internal use — essential oils are toxic if ingested
Understanding Essential Oil Dilution
Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts — often 50-100x more potent than the plants they come from. Proper dilution is not optional; it's essential for safe topical use. Undiluted essential oils can cause skin irritation, sensitization, and in some cases, chemical burns.
Dilution doesn't reduce effectiveness — it actually improves it. Carrier oils help essential oils absorb into the skin more evenly, prevent rapid evaporation, and provide additional skin benefits. A well-diluted blend works better and lasts longer.
Dilution Percentage Guide
| Dilution | Drops per 30ml | Recommended For |
|---|---|---|
| 0.5% | 3 drops | Facial care, babies (with guidance), sensitive skin |
| 1% | 6 drops | Daily facial use, children 6-12, elderly |
| 2% | 12 drops | Standard body application, massage |
| 3% | 18 drops | Therapeutic use, muscle discomfort |
| 5% | 30 drops | Acute conditions, spot treatment |
| 10%+ | 60+ drops | Clinical protocols only (nail fungus, targeted treatment) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the standard dilution ratio for essential oils?
For most adults, a 2% dilution (12 drops per 30ml carrier oil) is considered safe for daily body use. Facial applications typically use 0.5-1% dilution, while therapeutic spot treatments may go up to 5%. Always start with a lower concentration and increase if needed.
How many drops of essential oil per tablespoon of carrier oil?
At a 2% dilution, use approximately 6 drops of essential oil per tablespoon (15ml) of carrier oil. For a gentler 1% dilution, use 3 drops per tablespoon. A tablespoon equals 15ml or about 300 drops of carrier oil.
What dilution is safe for tea tree oil on the face?
For facial application, tea tree oil should be diluted to 0.5-1% concentration. This equals approximately 3-6 drops per 30ml (1 oz) of carrier oil. Always patch test first and avoid the eye area. Those with sensitive skin should start at 0.5%.
Can I use essential oils undiluted on skin?
No. Essential oils should never be applied undiluted to skin. Undiluted essential oils can cause skin irritation, sensitization, and allergic reactions. Even oils considered "gentle" like lavender should be diluted in a carrier oil before topical application.
Which carrier oil is best for essential oil dilution?
The best carrier oil depends on your use case. Jojoba oil works well for all skin types and facial use. Fractionated coconut oil is light and absorbs quickly for massage. Sweet almond oil is moisturizing for dry skin. Grapeseed oil is lighter and suits oily skin.
Important Safety Reminders
- Patch test first: Apply diluted oil to inner forearm, wait 24 hours
- Never ingest: Essential oils are toxic if swallowed
- Avoid sensitive areas: Keep away from eyes, inner ears, mucous membranes
- Pregnancy/nursing: Consult healthcare provider before use
- Children: Use lower dilutions and age-appropriate oils only
- Photosensitivity: Some oils (citrus) cause sun sensitivity — avoid sun 12+ hours