Even though essential oils contain incredible benefits, they are very active and must be handled with care. There are different ways to use essential oils every day and it is important to distinguish between them. There is no risk when they are incorporated, and thus diluted, in skincare products or plant oils for the body and face in small quantities. If you have an infant or are expecting a baby, it is also possible to enjoy the virtues of essential oils by diffusion, using a good mist diffuser, diluting the oils in water. On the other hand, it is strongly advised against applying them directly, undiluted, to the skin. Also avoid DIY products, “homemade” blends, during pregnancy because the doses are not controlled. Finally, if you are used to and enjoy using a nebulizing diffuserto diffuse pure essential oil, we advise very moderate use.

I am pregnant, can I keep using my products that contain essential oils?

Many mothers-to-be or new mothers fear that essential oils are dangerous or that safe use is impossible. It is important to know that depending on how an essential oil is used, the exposure of the mother and her baby differs. When essential oils are used in a controlled way, mothers-to-be or new mothers can serenely enjoy their de-stressing, toning or relaxing benefits. Essential oils can then prove particularly pleasant during this all-important period.

I have an infant, can I use cosmetics that contain essential oil?

Since the amounts of essential oils present in cosmetic products are tiny and strictly regulated, their use is not harmful for the mother and her baby. Exposure is even less significant for rinse-off products. But beware of “homemade” cosmetics: you must be extremely careful with homemade cosmetic preparations because the recipes do not necessarily comply with regulations and, beyond essential oils, can present other risks. Some ingredients can be irritating to the skin and the absence of an effective preservative system can lead to microbial contamination. To limit the risks during these delicate periods for your baby, avoid homemade “DIY” blends.

Which essential oil during my pregnancy? Expert advice matters

Of course, a distinction must be made between essential oils. Each essential oil is different. And the essential oil from the same plant generally varies depending on the plant variety, the part of the plant used, the extraction method and even the place of cultivation. Some essential oils can be ingested or applied directly, undiluted, to the skin, but in-depth knowledge of the subject is required. Do not ingest or apply pure essential oils to your skin without consulting your doctor. Cosmetic products, on the other hand, can be used with peace of mind thanks to the legislation in force. In Europe, before any new product is marketed, cosmetics brands must have the file validated by a toxicologist. The toxicologist takes into account the dose and exact composition of the essential oil in the safety assessment.

What is an essential oil and how do you use them?

An essential oil is the concentrated, aromatic liquid generally obtained by steam distillation of the flowers, leaves, wood or roots of a plant, and which concentrates its volatile actives. Some essential oils are obtained by simple cold pressing. Essential oils are very strong concentrates that must be used sparingly. To use them properly, you first need to know and understand them well. For oral use, intense and frequent diffusion and specific preparations where the concentration of essential oils is high, call on an expert. Avoid self-medication to avoid any risk, for you and your baby.

In cosmetics, essential oils are used both for their properties (soothing like lavender, astringent like palmarosa, purifying like tea tree, etc.) but also for their pleasant scent. In some cases, essential oils can also contribute to the preservation of a cosmetic product. In the case of cosmetic products, this is a regulated and controlled use, so the presence of essential oils in this type of product poses no problem. It is important to note that the amounts of essential oils present in our face and body care products are limited and controlled by an accredited toxicologist, so that they present no risk.

Allergens in fragrances and essential oils

Some people are allergic to substances contained in fragrances or essential oils: allergens. Unless you are reactive to these molecules, you can safely enjoy the benefits of essential oils in skincare products.

Even though allergens are not ingredients, above a certain threshold their presence must be listed in the ingredient lists of cosmetic products. There are 26 substances classified as allergens. A few examples: Cinnamal, Citral, Citronellol, Eugenol, Farnesol, Geraniol, Limonene, Linalool.

Hypersensitivity during pregnancy

If you have sensitive skin or if you still prefer to set essential oils aside during your pregnancy, HUYGENS offers all its body and bath products in “neutral” versions. The hormonal changes linked to pregnancy can also change the sense of smell. In case of hypersensitivity to smells during pregnancy, this 100% neutral, fragrance-free range can be the ideal solution.

Conclusion

Generally speaking, the presence of essential oils in cosmetic products is too low to represent a risk for pregnant women or new mothers. It is nonetheless necessary to remember that we advise against preparing your own cosmetic products with essential oils or using pure essential oils during your pregnancy. Validation by an expert toxicologist is necessary. For any other use, ask a doctor who will give you plenty of advice about your pregnancy and/or your young baby!

A risk-free routine

For the most cautious, we have put together a routine of products with a very low essential oil content:

• Neutral Massage Oil : Formulated without essential oils. A blend of nourishing organic plant oils. Very effective against stretch marks.

• The Infusion Blanche Facial Cleansing Gel to balance sebum production and de-stress the skin: 1% tea tree and sweet orange Essential Oils (rinse-off product)

• The Hyaluronic Concentrate : Formulated without essential oils. Awakens the skin. Contains a double dose of hyaluronic acid to hydrate, smooth and plump.

• The Supernature Emulsion : Contains 0.15% Essential Oils. Anti-blemish hydration based on organic aloe vera.

• The Eye Contour : Contains 0.07% Essential Oils. The super powers of cucumber and avocado oil against wrinkles, fatigue, dark circles and puffiness.

• The French Balm : Formulated without essential oils. The little do-it-all balm: lips, hands, cuticles, elbows, knees… Based on shea butter and plant oils selected for their repairing action.