Usually available as an ointment. No cosmetics can claim to be nonallergenic, because every ingredient holds the possibility that someone might be allergic to it. One of the main benefits of making your own cosmetics is that if you do have an allergic reaction you know what ingredients you have used and can soon find the culprit. Test for a reaction by placing a spot of any ingredient on the inner, gauze area of a Band-aid and attaching this to your inner arm, between the wrist and elbow. Leave in place for 24 hours, by which time any reaction you may have will show.
Some essential oils can irritate sensitive skins, particularly on the face.
Oils to watch out for are bay, bergamot, geranium, neroli, pennyroyal, peppermint, sage and spearmint. Many plants and herbs have beneficial cosmetic uses. Those listed here are particularly effective in skin creams. Follow the preparation instructions above. For equivalent strengths, use half the quantity of dried herbs to fresh.