How do I safely use palmarosa essential oil on my skin?

Palmarosa essential oil should never be applied directly to the skin in its undiluted ('neat') form. For safe body use, such as in a massage or body oil, it must be diluted in a suitable carrier oil like sweet almond, jojoba, or fractionated coconut oil. A general guideline for a 2% dilution is to add about 6 drops of essential oil to each 30 ml (one fluid ounce) of carrier oil, but you may wish to start with even fewer drops if you are new to essential oils or have sensitive skin. Before any widespread use, perform a patch test: apply a small amount of your diluted mixture to the inside of your forearm and wait 24 hours to check for any redness, itching, or irritation. Discontinue use if any reaction occurs. External use only. If you have sensitive or reactive skin, use with caution.