Topical methods of application of aromatherapy benefits are twofold. The essential oils are absorbed into the bloodstream, penetrating through skin and inhalation methods allow the vapor to be absorbed in the mucus membranes of the upper respiratory track. When planning topical use of citrus oils you need to keep in mind the phototoxicity of certain citrus oils.

1. Body massage, back and face
Application: Components of essential oils dissolved in an oil base penetrates the skin and the blood through the capillaries and spread throughout the body. They are absorbed into the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract, increasing the effect of the essential oils. This treatment rapidly changes the condition and is very effective. The duration of exposure would be up to several hours. Interestingly, short-term superficial massage for 5-15 minutes is stimulating, and a long term 30 minutes deep tissue message is relaxing. Massaging the face and/or back is widely used in aromatherapy.
Use: Essential oils dissolved in a cosmetic or vegetable oil base or cream. The first massage is performed with the minimal dosage of essential oils using 10 ml of foundation to 1-3 drops of oil. You can increase the dose in the second and third sessions to 6-10 drops of all the basics for the massage throughout the session. It is best to prepare the mixture of essential oils just before the massage. You can prepare the massage base to use within a month by adding a natural preservative such as 5-10 drops of jojoba oil or wheat germ oil. Prepare the mixtures according to specific rules which can be found in the article “Aroma Blend Preparing Guide”.

2. Bath for body, hands, feet and shower
a) Bath blends
Application: Components of essential oils, when dissolved in water, penetrate into the blood vessels through the pores of the skin and are carried throughout the body. The molecules of essential oils penetrate into the blood stream and through the respiratory tract. Baths with essential oils are invigorating and highly effective. Bathing with the water temperature above 37C is relaxing and a stimulating effect in cool water below 37C. This method is widely used in aromatherapy.
Use for the body: The dosage in the first bath, like the first massage, should be no more than 2-3 drops essential oil to ensure no allergic reaction. Therapeutic dosage for the bath would be 6 to 10 drops oil for a maximum dosage up to 15 drops. Essential oils can be used for the bath without an emulsifier, however, it is better to use them with an emulsifier, since they have additional effects on the skin. Possible emulsifiers are: 1 tablespoon of honey, 100-200 ml of milk, kefir, cream, yoghurt or other dairy product, 1 tablespoon vegetable oil base, 1-3 tablespoons sea or table salt, or 0.5-1 kg of mud. Dissolve essential oil in the emulsifier with the resulting composition and mix with the water. The bath may be cool, warm or hot depending on desired effect. The first bath should not last more than 5-10 minutes with an optimum bath time of 15-20 minutes. To enhance the effect of the procedure lie down for 15-30 minutes after the bath. Baths can be taken every day or every other day. A treatment would consist of 15-20 baths. A course to prevent disease would be 5-10 baths once a week for 2-3 months. In the case of serious illness you should consult with your physician for permission and temperature for the tub water. Do not take hot tub baths if you have high blood pressure or high body temperature.
Use for body, hands, feet and shower: Mix 4-6 drops of essential oil or mixture in a basin or bowl in which you can immerse your hands or feet.
For a shower mix 2-5 drops of essential oil or a mixture of one half teaspoon of vegetable oil dissolved with essential oil and apply to a sponge or washcloth for washing. Gently massage your body with the cloth and shower.
b) Lotion for skin
Application: The molecules of essential oils penetrate the skin through capillaries into the bloodstream, spreading throughout the body. Locally affecting the skin. The impact and base lotion are nourishing, moisturizing, regenerating, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial. This method slowly and gradually changes the state with an impact from several minutes to several hours.
Use: There are three types of lotions depending on the type of base. Aqueous-alcoholic lotion is based on 0.5 cups of mineral water (without gas), boiled or meltwater and 1 teaspoon of alcohol or vodka added to 8-20 drops of essential oil or mixture. The aqueous lotion is based on 0.5 cups of mineral water (without gas), boiled water or meltwater added to 10-30 drops of essential oil or mixture 15 ml oil-base 5-10 drops. The number of essential oils often depends on the particular oil and the results you want to achieve. Essential oils do not dissolve or mix well with water. Shake the bottle thoroughly before each use. Lotions are mainly used as beauty treatments for the body or face. Such lotions may also impact the psycho-emotional state depending on the essential oils.
c) Enrichment of ready cosmetic means
Application: Like the use of lotions for skin provides aromatherapy effects of essential oils and cosmetic from foundation itself.
Use: Add essential oil or mixture to the base of cream, gel, mask, lotion, shampoo, conditioner, etc. When preparing a foundation for one procedure add 1-5 drops of essential oil or blend to 5-10 g of base and stir well. In the preparation of the foundation for long-term use mix 150-200 g base diluted with 10-20 drops of essential oil and stir well. Keep in a cool, dark place.
d) Compress
Application: The compress can be hot or cold. Make a wetting pad using a piece of material, bandage or small towel and place in a bowl of essential oil mixture. Squeeze the cloth out and apply to the areas to be treated, rewet as needed. The process is less intense than a message since it effects the skin and blood circulation only where the compress is placed. Weak and gradual impact. The effects can last from several minutes to several hours, depending on how long the compress is left in place. Can be used at home.
Use: Cold compress: Add 3 to 8 drops of essential oil or mixture to 200 ml of very cold, preferably ice water and apply to the affected area. You can cover the cloth with plastic wrap, or better yet use a bag of ice.
Use: Hot compress: The preparation is similar to a cold compress but hot water is used. The water should be hot but not so hot that the compress is uncomfortable on the body, Keep the compress on 20 minutes to 1 hour. Compresses are often used for headaches and nervous tension.
e) Rubbing
Application: The process of impact grinding is similar to the effects of the massage. However, since this is a local procedure, the effect is less than a massage. Fast and strongly changes the state, but with less intensity than a massage. The duration of exposure can be up to several hours. Can be used at home.
Use: Mix 1-2 tablespoons of an oil base with 8-15 drops of essential oils. The resulting composition is stirred and rubbed with intense massage movements until absorbed into the body for up to 10-15 minutes. Generally, this procedure is more superficial than a message. In the area of grinding the skin should appear warm. Particularly used in the area of localization of pain in muscles, joints and headaches.