FAQ for Essential Oils

A curated guide to help you enjoy your essential oils with confidence, clarity, and ease.

What are essential oils?
Essential oils are highly concentrated aromatic extracts distilled from plants — capturing the pure fragrance, character, and natural essence of flowers, leaves, woods, peels, and resins.

How are essential oils different from perfume?
Essential oils are derived directly from botanicals without synthetic fragrance additives. Traditional perfumes are primarily designed for scent and often contain alcohol, fixatives, and synthetic fragrance compounds.

How can I use essential oils?
Essential oils can be enjoyed in many ways, including:

  • Diffuser jewellery
  • Diffusers
  • Bath rituals
  • Massage blends
  • Personal aromatherapy rituals

For topical use, always dilute properly with a carrier oil.

Are essential oils safe to apply to the skin?
Essential oils are highly concentrated and must always be properly diluted with a carrier oil before skin application. Additionally, certain oils (specifically citrus oils like Bergamot) can increase skin sensitivity to sunlight. Avoid direct UV or sunlight exposure to the application area for at least 12 hours after topical use. If irritation occurs, discontinue use immediately. If you have sensitive skin, allergies, or existing conditions, consult a qualified healthcare professional before use.

How do I patch test essential oils?
Dilute the oil with a carrier oil and apply a small amount to the inside of your forearm or behind your ear. Wait 24 hours. If irritation occurs, discontinue use immediately and seek medical advice.

Can I use essential oils during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Some essential oils may not be suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding. We recommend consulting a qualified healthcare professional before use.

Are essential oils safe for infants and children?
Children can be more sensitive to essential oils. Always use very low dilutions and seek professional guidance before use around infants or young children.

Are essential oils safe around pets?
Many essential oils are highly sensitive or toxic to pets, particularly cats, dogs, and small animals. Always diffuse oils in well-ventilated spaces where your pets can freely leave the room, and consult your veterinarian if you have specific concerns about your animals.

Can I ingest essential oils?
No. Essential oils are highly concentrated botanical extracts meant strictly for external use and inhalation. They should never be ingested or added to food or water under any circumstances.

Can I blend different essential oils together?
Absolutely. Blending oils allows you to create personalised aromas that suit your mood, environment, or daily ritual.

Why are some oils thicker or slower to pour?
Each oil has a different natural viscosity. Woods and resins are often thicker, while citrus oils are lighter and more fluid.

Do essential oils change colour or scent over time?
Some oils naturally deepen in colour or shift slightly in aroma as they age. This is completely normal, especially for citrus and resin based oils.

Why do essential oils oxidise?
Light, heat, and air exposure gradually break down the natural compounds within essential oils. This process, known as oxidation, can affect aroma, freshness, and overall quality over time.

Why does Scentsway use frosted black bottles instead of standard amber bottles?
While amber bottles block much of the UV light, they still allow some visible light exposure. Scentsway frosted black bottles are designed to create a near complete blackout barrier, helping reduce photo oxidation and preserve freshness for longer — especially for delicate citrus oils.

Why does the bottle cap matter?
Many standard plastic caps can weaken over time when exposed to concentrated essential oils. Our Aluminium Shell Caps combine a durable aluminium exterior with a compatible inner lining to provide:

  • A more secure seal
  • Reduced air exposure
  • Better long term durability
  • A refined premium finish

How should I store essential oils?
For best freshness:

  • Store in a cool, dark place
  • Keep caps tightly sealed
  • Avoid prolonged heat or sunlight exposure
  • Avoid transferring oils into plastic containers

Proper storage helps preserve aroma, stability, and longevity.

How long do essential oils last?
Shelf life varies depending on the oil type. Citrus oils generally oxidise faster, while woods and resins typically last longer. Proper storage helps extend freshness.