We throw around this big word a lot: Sensitization. We get asked a lot what this means, so here’s a quick lesson that sheds some light on sensitization.

What Does This Mean?
Sensitization is an allergic immune response. It can also be referred to as Allergic Contact Dermatitis (ACD). This means that the reaction may or may not show up at the area of application. If you apply an oil or blend to your arm, the reaction may show up on your chest, neck or just about anyplace else. Sometimes it will take time to figure out which oil you are reacting to. Almost every time the reaction will happen faster and last longer than the time before.
Just like when you get bit by a mosquito or stumble upon poison ivy, a raised, itchy, red rash can appear. It’s that histamine reaction that can worsen over time. It may not happen the first, second, or even tenth time, but the fact remains it may happen. Now, here’s the really sad part: once sensitized to an oil you may not be able to use it without symptoms recurring. You may also have reactions to oils with a similar chemical make-up. An example of this is a compound called geranyl, widely used in modern cosmetics, there are many people who have sensitization to Lavender since it contains geranyl.
Some signs of sensitization are:
⦿ itchy skin
⦿ raised, bumpy rash
⦿ eczema
⦿ shortness of breath
⦿ tightness in chest

Leave a comment