14/03/2026
Sunshine and citrus belong together - but only if you know the rules! 🍊☀️
Did you know that some of the most uplifting essential oils in our collection need a little extra respect? Those bright, cold-pressed beauties like Lemon, Grapefruit, Lime, Mandarin, Bitter Orange, Sweet Orange and Tangerine are phototoxic. That means they're pure magic in a diffuser, but need care on the skin before sun exposure.
Here are 3 tips to stay sun safe:
1️⃣ Beware the Citrus – Cold-pressed citrus oils contain natural compounds that react with UV light. Always check your labels!
2️⃣ Risk: Serious Skin Reactions – Applying these oils to skin before sun exposure can cause burns, blistering, or pigmentation.
3️⃣ Wait 12+ hrs Before Sun – If you do use them topically (in wash-off products), allow at least 12 hours before sun exposure.
✨ The good news? Not all citrus is off limits!
Our SETTLE heroes Neroli and Petitgrain are steam-distilled from the blossoms and leaves of the orange tree, so they're completely safe for topical use. And our REJUVENATE favourite Bergamot FCF (bergapten-free = the phototoxic component removed) is bergapten-free - all the beautiful scent, none of the risk.
So go ahead, enjoy your citrus. Just know which ones belong in your diffuser and which ones can join you in the sun.
Which citrus scent is your favourite? Mine shifts daily - but Neroli is always calling me today!