Essential Oils and Your Face Mask

This year we have all gotten pretty familiar with wearing masks. We’re wearing them at work, at the grocery store and for some of us at all times. Many of us find this to be uncomfortable and are experiencing some side effects, such as headaches, shortness of breath, anxiety and even poor skin health. 

When looking for solutions, essential oils can be a handy tool in combating some of the most common ailments caused by extended mask wearing. Our sense of smell is strong and deeply connected to our overall health. When we inhale essential oils we are inhaling their aromatic molecules. These molecules then proceed to the top of the nose into the olfactory cells. The small hairs on these cells can produce nerve impulses that are sent to the limbic system, which is the part of our brain that controls our emotions, memory, hormone balance, heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing. Scientists believe that this process can change brain chemistry, affecting our moods and providing subtle holistic benefits to the body. Essential oils can also help open up the respiratory system making it easier to breathe and can help clear mucus associated with congestion. 

Essential oils also smell amazing! Which means we won't have to worry about odd smells from the material the mask is made of or even our own breath. After trying this technique you might not ever want to take your mask of!

Below we’ve put together a list of essential oils that can help make wearing a mask a little more comfortable and pleasant.  

Lavender

Lavender is the most popular essential oil used throughout history and all over the world. It is a powerhouse of incredible health benefits. This oil can be used to alleviate headaches and is very commonly used to rescue feelings of stress and anxiety. This oil is also antibacterial and antimicrobial, making it a great boost for our immune health and a powerful additive to our skin care routines.  

Peppermint

Peppermint essential oil contains menthol which is a common ingredient in cough & cold remedies. It can help clear congestion and open our airways for better breathing. The cooling sensation of peppermint’s aroma is invigorating and is said to provide energy and focus. Because of it’s pain relieving properties, peppermint essential oil is also a great choice for headache relief. 

Orange

Orange essential oil is often referred to as the “happy” oil. The sweet, familiar smell of oranges provides an uplifting and energetic feeling that can soothe anxiety, stress, and feelings of depression. The refreshing aroma of orange essential oil has a natural ability to improve immunity and can be used to combat acne and airborne bacteria. 

Immune Health Blend

Our Immune Health essential oil blend is carefully formulated to provide our immune system with an extra boost of protection. We bring together the powerful properties of eucalyptus, rosemary, tea tree, orange, frankincense, and lemon essential oils, which all support the immune system. 

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus is a powerfully invigorating essential oil that is used to enhance respiratory health and clarity. It’s cool aroma stimulates the mind, improving memory, focus, and reducing brain fog and stress. Containing menthol, this oil can help fight respiratory ailments, opening up our airways for better and clearer breathing. 

How to Apply Essential Oils to Your Mask

Place 1 drop of the essential oil of your choice on the outer edge of your mask. Wait 5-10minutes for the oil to fully absorb and dry before placing it on your face. 

If you’d like to dilute the oil, mix 1 drop of essential oil with ½ tsp of carrier oil. Witch hazel and coconut oil are great choices for this. Reapply throughout the day as needed. 

Safety

It’s important to apply essential oils correctly and safely. Essential oils are full of incredible health benefits and are safe if proper procedures are followed. Remember, these are highly concentrated oils and a little goes a long way. You should start by only using 1 drop of your essential oil and increase the amount from there if it’s right for you. Always place the drops on the outside edge of your mask and make sure it dries completely before placing the mask on your face. If you have sensitive skin or just want to take extra precautions, we suggest diluting the essential oil with a carrier oil, such as witch hazel or coconut oil. We do not recommend putting an essential oil directly on the skin if it is not diluted first. 

The purity of essential oils can effect how you react to them. It's important to purchase essential oils that are from a quality source. And when you can choosing organic is the safest way to go. 

If the aroma of the essential oil is causing skin irritation or headaches, stop use immediately and try a different oil or another method of application. 

Do not use essential oils on your mask if you are pregnant or breastfeeding without first consulting with your doctor. 

Do not place essential oils on the masks of children. Children are more sensitive and do not react to essential oils the same way adults do. If you wish to use essential oils on your child’s mask make sure to dilute it and start with a very small amount. Monitor how your child reacts and stop use immediately if there are any negative side effects. 

Skin Health

Our mask can be causing some of us to have dry, itchy skin and for others it can be causing a buildup of oil and dirt leading to unsightly acne. 

Below is a simple recipe for a nighttime skincare serum that can help keep the skin on your face healthy and happy. 

Ingredients: 

• 2oz Amber Glass Bottle with Dropper Top
• 2 ½ tablespoons of Jojoba oil  (or carrier oil of your choice)
• 6 drops of Lavender essential oil
• 4 drops of Frankincense essential oil
• 2 drops of Chamomile essential oil

Directions: Add all of the ingredients to a 2oz glass bottle. Attach the dropper top and shake well. Store in a dark, cool location out of reach from children and pets. Shake well before each use, separation is normal.

To Use: Apply this serum to a freshly washed face before bed. Place 2-3 drops on fingertips and gently apply it to the face in upwards sweeping motions.