How do I safely dilute and apply this lavender essential oil on skin?

Lavender essential oil from Botanika is a pure, steam-distilled oil from Lavandula angustifolia with no added ingredients. Because it is highly concentrated, it should never be applied undiluted to skin. A common starting dilution for body use is 1–2 % essential oil in a carrier oil — roughly 1–2 drops of lavender oil per 5 ml (one teaspoon) of carrier such as jojoba, sweet almond, or fractionated coconut oil. For a full-body massage oil, you might use 10–15 drops in 30 ml of carrier. Facial applications should stay at the lower end, around 0.5–1 %.

Before using a new blend on a larger area, do a patch test: apply a small amount of the diluted mixture to the inner forearm, cover with a bandage, and wait 24 hours. If redness, itching, or irritation appears, wash the area and discontinue use. Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, and mucous membranes. If oil gets into eyes, rinse with a carrier oil or milk, not water, then seek medical advice if irritation persists.

People with very reactive or damaged skin should be especially cautious and may want to consult a dermatologist or qualified aromatherapist before use. The same applies during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or when considering use on children — professional guidance is recommended because sensitivity can vary and some constituents may not be suitable for those groups.