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Dilution Ratio Formula:
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The dilution ratio represents the proportion of essential oil to carrier oil in a mixture. It's a critical measurement for safe and effective use of essential oils in aromatherapy and topical applications.
The calculator uses the dilution ratio formula:
Where:
Explanation: The ratio indicates how many parts essential oil are present per part of carrier oil. For example, a ratio of 0.05 means 1 part essential oil to 20 parts carrier oil.
Details: Proper dilution is essential for safety, as undiluted essential oils can cause skin irritation, sensitization, or other adverse reactions. Appropriate dilution also ensures optimal absorption and effectiveness of the essential oils.
Tips: Enter the number of essential oil drops and carrier oil drops. Both values must be positive integers, with carrier drops being at least 1.
Q1: What is a safe dilution ratio for topical application?
A: For most adults, a 1-5% dilution is recommended (ratio of 0.01-0.05). For sensitive skin or facial use, 0.5-1% is safer (ratio of 0.005-0.01).
Q2: How does dilution ratio differ from percentage?
A: Percentage = (drops_oil / (drops_oil + drops_carrier)) × 100. The ratio focuses specifically on the oil-to-carrier relationship.
Q3: Can I use this calculator for different carrier substances?
A: Yes, the calculator works for any carrier substance (oils, lotions, etc.) as long as you're measuring in consistent units (drops).
Q4: What if I'm using milliliters instead of drops?
A: Convert to drops first (typically 20 drops = 1 mL, but this can vary by oil viscosity). Use consistent measurement units for accurate results.
Q5: Are there essential oils that require special dilution considerations?
A: Yes, some "hot" oils like cinnamon, oregano, and thyme require greater dilution (lower ratios) due to their potential for skin irritation.