Top 16 Essential Oils For Rashes: Remedy And Precautions

Skin rashes, any type of skin rashes, are uncomfortable. No matter what the underlying causes of these rashes are, they are uncomfortable. And more than uncomfortable, they are embarrassing. No one wants to keep scratching their skin in public. And the scratching can cause burning, swelling and even bleeding.

What is the solution?

Of course we have the over-the-counter ointments and lotions. But, aren’t these products made up of artificial ingredients and chemicals?

Yes, these over-the-counter products are made up of artificial ingredients and chemicals which will harm the body if used regularly.

So, is there any other solution for treating rashes?

Yes. One can treat rashes with essential oils for rashes. Essential oils are concentrated plant oils which are natural and contain many organic compounds needed not only for treating rashes, but also for overall wellbeing.

Understanding that essential oils for rashes are a natural way of getting rid of the itchy rash, but choosing the right essential oil is a dilemma. There are so many essential oils to choose from. He we will look at the list of best essential oils for rashes.

But, before we learn about the essential oils for rashes, we need to learn about rashes. There are different forms of rashes which are differentiated in terms of color, texture, irritation and inflammation. The underlying cause of the rashes may be diaper rash, poison ivy or irritation to a new razor. These types of rashes are common and go away without the need for a treatment; however, essential oils for rashes reduce the discomfort.

Must read insightful article on DIY Aftershave With Essential Oils for Razor Burn.

Now, there are other types of rashes resulting from skin conditions including eczema and rosacea that are painful, agonizing and shaming. A study first published in 1990 showed how the absence of work by people with hand eczema. (1) The pain and discomfort can be emotionally, financially and professionally distressing. It is important to diagnose the cause of the rash because it will help determine the best essential oil for rashes based on your condition.

Different Types of Rashes

Rashes can be of different types and it may be caused due to different reasons. Some of the rashes that are quite common are as follows: –

1. Eczema

This chronic skin condition is characterized by red, itchy and dry skin. People who suffer from eczema also experience flare ups, which are triggered by certain kinds of fabrics, stress, environmental factors and cosmetic products. These flare ups are localized and around the hands, feet and upper body. The underlying cause of eczema is not understood, but it is believed that eczema is a result of certain skin conditions and a family history of skin allergies.

2. Skin Allergic Reaction / Contact Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis is the skin irritation or dermatitis that occurs when one comes in contact with an irritant like poison ivy. The allergy due to contact dermatitis may manifest as rashes, blisters with pus, bumps, and itchy skin.

3. Psoriasis

Psoriasis is an uncomfortable skin condition that is due to the sudden increase in the life of skin cells. And as the cell life increase there is a buildup of scaly skin. For the duration of psoriasis the thickness of skin increases and it becomes itchy, dry and painful. Psoriasis only lasts for a few days or weeks and usually comes at a particular time of the year.

4. Friction Rash or Intertrigo

Intertrigo is rash caused by friction between the skin and skin, which is increased due to heat and moisture. Generally, it occurs in the areas of the body that are warm and moist and in contact with skin. The usual places are armpits, inner thighs (chafing of thighs) and buttocks. It is annoying painful and can result in bleeding.

5. Rosacea

This skin condition is caused when the blood flow increases to a part of the skin. It is usually seen around the face. The main triggers of this condition may be stress, certain foods, exposure to sun or skincare products. Rosacea can be characterized by tiny bumps on the face.

6. Some Other Rashes Affecting the Skin

There are many other types of skin rashes including rashes from stress, hives, chickenpox, rashes from heat, and rashes from cold.

Finding an essential oil for rash is important to get relief from the pain and itching. Essential oil for itching are extracted from the plants and are natural, unlike the over-the-counter ointments and lotions. Try to treat the largest organ of the body with natural products, unless a doctor suggests otherwise.

The skin is a permeable organ and the ointments, lotions and creams rubbed on it get absorbed into the body. Essential oils are also applied topically on the skin (on and around the rash) to get relief from skin conditions naturally.

Carrier Oils For Blending Essential Oil

Before discussing about the essential oils for rashes we must first digress and learn about the carrier oils that are used to dilute the essential oils. Essential oils are potent; what do we mean by that?

The compounds in the oils are so strong that it may cause side effects on the skin if applied without diluting it first. Diluting essential oils does not reduce its effects; it just offers more protection to the skin. There are many products that can be used to dilute essential oils but the most popular and feasible one are carrier oils.

Some of the common essential oils that can be blended with essential oils are as follows: –

• Olive oil
• Sweet almond oil
• Coconut oil
• Fractionated coconut oil
• Olive oil
• Avocado oil
• Grape seed oil

16 Top Essential Oils for Rashes

1. Sandalwood Essential Oil for Skin Rash Remedy

Extracted from the Santalum album tropical tree, sandalwood essential oil has a cooling and soothing effect when applied topically. The plant is considered to be sacred in many parts of the world and is used for religious purposes and scared ceremonies. It has medicinal properties that may treat and cure several ailments. Skin conditions including rashes are treated with sandalwood paste and sandalwood oil.

Summary

When the oil is diluted and topically applied it soothes the rashes. It is also used in skincare regimen as it lightens the skin. The Journal of Plant Science published a review on essential oils in which it was reported that sandalwood essential oil could be used to treat rashes and swelling. The oil has antioxidant properties useful in reducing wrinkles and fine lines. It also reduce redness of the face. (2)

2. Treat Rashes with Peppermint Essential Oil

Peppermint essential oil has good menthol content which is known for its cooling properties. This oil is diluted and applied on the rashes to soothe the skin and reduce itching. The oil has analgesic properties that calm the irritated skin. The oil of peppermint is not only used for treating rashes but also for other skin inflammation.

Also, Peppermint essential oil stands out as one of the best essential oils for skin. With its cooling sensation and natural antibacterial properties, it helps to soothe skin irritations, reduce inflammation, and promote a healthy, radiant complexion.

Summary

A 2012 study published in the Iranian Journal of Pharmaceutical Research showed that peppermint oil was more than effective in treating Pruritus or skin itching during pregnancy. (3)

3. Lavender Essential Oil for Rashes

Lavender oil is perhaps the most popular essential oil for its aroma and health benefits. The natural astringent properties of the oil reduce the tingling of the skin near the rashes. It is a mild or gentle oil that has a soothing effect on inflamed skin. It has analgesic properties that lower pain. Being a gentle oil, lavender oil is used for rashes caused due to allergies and environmental factors, like over exposure to sunlight.

In addition to these skin-soothing properties, lavender oil is considered one of the best essential oil for skin fungus thanks to its natural antifungal abilities. It can inhibit fungal growth that causes certain skin infections.

Summary

A study conducted in 2022 concluded that a lavender essential oil with coconut oil can be used to treat diaper rashes and cracked skin. (4) There have been cases where stress or nervous system agitation resulted in itching of the skin. Lavender oil is an antidepressant that uplifts the mood and calms the senses, thereby inhibiting itching caused due to issues in the nervous system.

4. Lemongrass and Thyme Essential Oils Itch Therapy

The combination of lemongrass and thyme essential oils is a perfect remedy for treating itches caused due to insect bites. Both these essential oils are gaining popularity in the world of aromatherapy. The herbs of these oils have been used in traditional medicines for treating skin ailments.

Lemongrass Oil is one of the most sought-after healing oils for skin, known for its antiseptic and astringent properties. It helps cleanse and purify the skin, reducing acne and blemishes while leaving a refreshing and rejuvenating sensation. Regular use of Lemongrass Oil can promote clearer and healthier-looking skin.

Both the oils also have analgesic properties that speed up the healing process. Make a blend of the oil along with suitable carrier oil and carry it along while going on outdoor trips.

5. Essential Oil of Tea Tree Treats Rashes

Tea tree oil is good for skin health as it has antifungal, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It is diluted and applied on and around the rashes to reduce the symptoms of rashes. However, tea tree oil should be used sparingly.

This oil must be used to treat rashes caused from insect bites, bug bites or rashes due to fungal or bacterial infection. Tea tree oil has the capability of eliminating the pathogen that causes the rashes. It is used as an ingredient in most pharmaceutical skincare products.

The oil is also used to reduce ocular itching caused due to Ocular Demodicosis. This 2012 study was published in the Journal of Cornea and external Disease. (5)

6. Chamomile Essential Oil Remedy for Rashes

Chamomile is a popular flavor used in tea, but it is also a popular essential oil with several therapeutic properties. Chamomile oil is yet another gentle and mild essential oil, and hence has a soothing effect when applied on rashes. It also has anti-inflammatory properties suitable for sensitive skin.

Summary

The Journal of Essential Oil Bearing Plants published an animal-based study on the anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory properties of chamomile oil. (6)

7. Geranium Essential Oil Treating Rashes

Geranium oil has a floral aroma and is used in aromatherapy to lower stress and anxiety. Geranium oil has therapeutic benefits for the skin as well.

Geranium Essential Oil is an excellent choice as an essential oil for itchy skin. Its anti-inflammatory and balancing properties help soothe irritation, reduce redness, and provide relief from itching, making it a valuable addition to your skincare regimen. Experience the calming and soothing effects of Geranium Essential Oil on your itchy skin.

Sometimes the skin becomes dry or irritated due to environmental factors, stress or hormonal changes. The bioactive components of the oil restore the skin’s balance. This oil can be used by those who are constantly affected with itchy skin.

8. Vetiver Essential Oil for Skin Rashes

Vetiver is extracted from the root of the perennial grass Chrysopogon zizanioides or khus. The oil has an analgesic, antifungal and antibacterial properties. It is applied on wounds and rashes for faster healing and relief. The aroma of the essential oil of vetiver has a grounding effect that also calms the agitated mind. It is especially useful for treating the skin torn after excessive itching. It has healing properties that may stimulate and repair cell damage.

9. Frankincense Essential Oil Rashes Therapy

Frankincense essential oil is extracted by steam distilling the resin of the Boswellia tree. It is a revered plant with abilities of healing and regenerating. Rashes lead to itching, which causes itching, which can damage skin cells. Topical application of the essential oil of frankincense mitigates the symptoms of rashes and promotes cell regeneration.

The uses of frankincense oil for rashes, hives and as one of the best essential oils for eczema are highlighted in a book by Muhammad Irshad and other authors. (7)

10. Copaiba Balsam Essential Oil To Get Rid of Rashes

Copaiba Balsam is a lesser known essential oil. However, it is similar to frankincense oil. It is obtained fro the resins of a tee and has therapeutic activities that affect the skin. It has analgesic or healing qualities as well as regenerative qualities. It is generally used to curb post-acne skin irritation.

11. Helichrysum Essential Oil for Rashes

The essential oil of helichrysum is used to treat rashes from physical injuries and wounds. It can be diluted and applied on rashes from bruises, injuries and scratches. It has compounds with antiseptic, antiviral and anti-inflammatory activities that prevent infection and irritation of skin.

12. Petitgrain Essential Oil Skin Treatment

Petitgrain is a rare essential oil extracted from the leaves of the Citrus aurantium var. amara tree. It has a sweet woody and citrusy aroma. The aroma has a positive effect on the mind and helps bounce off the thoughts from the annoying rashes. When topically applied, the essential oil with its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties soothes irritation around the rash and speeds up healing.

13. Patchouli Essential Oil Skin Benefits

Patchouli oil is a potent oil and is similar in function and strength to tea tree essential oil. It has antiviral and antimicrobial properties. What makes it stand apart from tea tree oil are its astringent properties. It can be used in place of tea tree oil without the fear of drying the skin.

Patchouli oil benefits the skin by providing anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that can help with rashes. It can soothe the skin and reduce inflammation, promoting faster healing.

It is preferred during the winter season to treat rashes due to infections. The chemical composition and pharmacological properties of patchouli essential oil are published in the Journal of Essential Oil Bearing Plants. (8)

14. Eucalyptus Essential Oil For Treating Rashes

Treating skin rashes with eucalyptus oil has been a traditional practice. This oil has potent antifungal and antibacterial properties that eliminate the pathogens that cause rash-causing infections. It also has a soothing effect that alleviates the pain. Eucalyptus essential oil is an ingredient in anti-itching ointments and creams. (9)

15. Myrrh Essential Oil Skincare for Rashes

It is said that the Greeks and Egyptians civilizations used myrrh in medicine and as ornament. The oil was applied on the skin for its aroma as well as because it gave the skin a uniform tone. Research has established the anti-inflammatory, antifungal and antimicrobial properties. These properties ensure good skin health. Myrrh oil can be diluted with carrier oils including coconut oil or olive oil and applied on rashes.

Essential Oils DIY Recipes For Treating Rashes

DIY Recipe for Dry Skin Irritation

Ingredients

• 5 drops of frankincense essential oil
• 2 drops of chamomile essential oil
• 2 drops of lavender essential oil
• 2 tablespoons of fractionated coconut oil
• 2 tablespoons of Vitamin E oil

DIY Recipe for Itchy Skin Irritation

Ingredients

• 5 drops of frankincense essential oil
• 5 drops of peppermint essential oil
• 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil

DIY Recipe for Itchy Skin

Ingredients

• 4 drops of geranium essential oil
• 5 drops of peppermint essential oil
• 1 ounce of aloe vera gel

DIY Recipe for Hives

Ingredients

• 5 drops of lavender essential oil
• 3 drops of tea tree essential oil
• 3 drops of frankincense essential oil
• 2 drops of peppermint essential oil
• 2 drops of helichrysum essential oil
• 3 tablespoons of sweet almond oil

DIY Face Mask for Eczema

Ingredients

• 5 drops of lavender essential oil
• 1 drop of turmeric essential oil
• 3 drops of organic nutmeg essential oil
• 1 tablespoon of gram flour
• 2 tablespoons of aloe vera

How To Use Essential Oils For Rashes

Essential oils are plant oils in concentrated form. Although some people would say that applying the concentrated oil on the skin has no side effects it is far from the truth. The concentrated essential oils can cause adverse effects on the skin including rashes, swellings, blisters and inflammation.

There are two main ways of using essential oils inhalation or topical application. To treat rashes essential oils must be applied topically. But, stress or nervous system agitation can also result in itching of the skin. In such case inhalation aromatherapy is useful.

Essential Oil Topical Application for Rashes

• Choose one or more essential oils depending up on your underlying cause and also based on your preference. It is always better to use two or more essential oils to enhance its effect.
• Take two to five drops of the essential oils with a filter.
• Add it to one and half to three tablespoons of carrier oil. Any clean vegetable oil is helpful.
• Dip a cotton swab or ball in the oil mix.
• Apply the cotton on and near the rash.
• Gently rub the oil on the skin without using force.
• Do this two to three times in a day for relief and faster healing.

Dos And Don’ts With Essential Oils

Here, let’s understand the dos and don’ts of using essential oils.

• Perform a small skin patch test before applying oil on the face. Dilute essential oil with vegetable oil and apply on the forearm or elbow and wait for a day. If there are no side effects, then use the oil on the face.
• Do a quality check for the essential oil. To be assured of the quality choose a reputed vendor. If buying the product from an online store, check the reviews of other customers. The risks of allergy increases if you buy fake essential oil.
• The shelf life of essential oils varies. Essential oils last anywhere from six months to three years. Using oils past its expiry date will increase the risk of side effects.
• It is better to consult a physician before using essential oils if you have any medical conditions or if you are taking medications. The bioactive ingredients in essential oils may react with medications.
• Consult an aromatherapist and learn all about the properties of the essential oil(s) you plan on using on a daily basis. Also ask the aromatherapist how the blends of essential oils work.
• Always dilute essential oils before applying on the skin; use carrier oil like coconut oil, creams, and lotions.
• Children and older people may be sensitive to components in the oils. Consult a paediatrician before using the oils on infants and babies.
• When to stop using essential oils? Essential oils are generally considered safe for use. However, stop using these oils if you experience any side effects.
• Beware of ingesting essential oils. Because of its fragrance, some people use essential oils in food to boost its flavor and fragrance. But, it may cause side effects. Consult an aromatherapist to know more details.
• Follow the instructions on the label of the product for storing essential oils. These products are applied on the face and hence must be stored properly.
• Too much of goodness can be bad. Try not to overuse essential oils. Use small quantities of the oil, and do not use the oil more than twice a week.

Frequently Asked Questions

Source:

• Birgitta Meding, Gunnar Swanbeck. (1990). Consequences of having hand eczema. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1600-0536.1990.tb00076.x.
•  Essential Oils: Magical Ingredients for Skin Care. (2021). https://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo?journalid=215&doi=10.11648/j.jps.20210902.14.
•  Marjan Akhavan Amjadi, Faraz Mojab and Seyedeh Bahareh Kamranpour. (2012). The Effect of Peppermint Oil on Symptomatic Treatment of Pruritus in Pregnant Women. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3813175/. 
•  Nurina Ade Almira Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, Indonesia. (2022). Addition of Lavender Essential Oil (Lavandula angustifolia) in Manufacture Baby Products Diaper Rash Cream. http://e-journal.urecol.org/index.php/ujas/article/view/159. 
•  Gao, Ying-Ying MD; Xu, Duan-lian MD; Huang, li-Juan MD; Wang, Rong MD; Tseng, Scheffer C G MD, PhD. (2012). Treatment of Ocular Itching Associated With Ocular Demodicosis by 5% Tea Tree Oil Ointment. https://journals.lww.com/corneajrnl/Abstract/2012/01000/Treatment_of_Ocular_Itching_Associated_With_Ocular.3.aspx. 
•  Ya-ni Wu,Yong Xu &Lei Yao. (2010). Anti-inflammatory and Anti-allergic Effects of German Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.). https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0972060X.2012.10644022. 
•  Essential Oils: Oils of Nature. https://books.google.co.in/books?hl=en&lr=&id=B3L8DwAAQBAJ&oi=fnd&pg=PA37&dq=frankincense+essential+oil+for+rashes&ots=u0_KSmrUDK&sig=mYZnxkMYwCP3YiXBrSKcPZDK3fE&redir_esc=y#v=onepage&q&f=false. 
•  Sudin Kumar Pandey1 Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Ghaziabad-201002, UP India;2 Agrotechnology and Rural Development Division, CSIR-North East Institute of Science and Technology, Jorhat-785006, Assam, India,Sangeeta Bhandari,Neelav Sarma,Twahira Begum,Sunita Munda,Joyashree Baruah. (2022). Essential oil compositions, pharmacological importance and agro technological practices of Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin Benth.): A review. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0972060X.2021.1995511.  
•  Nilforoushzadeh, Mohammad Ali; Asghari, GholamReza; Jaffary, Fariba; Tabrizchi, Maliheh. (2012). Effect of Anti-Itching and Healing Ointments Containing the Herbal Essential Oils of Menthapiperita, Eucalyptus Globus, Caryophyllusaromaticus, Cinnamomumceylanicom in A Variety of Skin Eczema.. https://web.s.ebscohost.com/abstract?direct=true&profile=ehost&scope=site&authtype=crawler&jrnl=10277595&AN=79893378&h=OlB5JAA1223aoYyZOXTeJUa7kaaOBrJ3SRAxrylWo7UEtlFwDru5c7JrDk1MXwQXanIq95oZsy%2fNFCIK2JJAxA%3d%3d&crl=c&resultNs=AdminWebAuth&resultLocal=ErrCrlNotAuth&crlhashurl=login.aspx%3fdirect%3dtrue%26profile%3dehost%26scope%3dsite%26authtype%3dcrawler%2