Essential oils can do more than give your soap a pleasant scent--choosing the right essential oil can also have beneficial effects on your health. Because the fragrance and intensity of essential oils are diluted in soap, soap provides a less intense way to enjoy some of aromatherapy's benefits. According to the University of Minnesota's Center for Spirituality & Healing and the Life Science Foundation, most soaps should have an essential oil concentration of 5 percent or less.
Tea Tree
Tea tree oil has antifungal, antiviral and antibacterial powers, making it a practical choice for kitchen sinks, according to Patricia Davis in her book "Aromatherapy A-Z." Because of its antiseptic properties, tea tree oil soap may also be helpful for treating acne and to prevent razor bumps and ingrown hairs after shaving. Though tea tree oil in its undiluted form can cause skin irritation, it's usually safe in soaps--though if you have especially sensitive skin, you may want to test the soap on a small area of your skin first.
Peppermint
Soap made with peppermint essential oil may be a good way to start the day because it has an invigorating effect and may reduce fatigue, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Peppermint soap may also be a good choice for times when you have a rash, acne breakout or other skin irritation because it has cooling, soothing properties. Opt for a different soap for children, because peppermint oil applied to a child's face can cause serious breathing problems, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Lavender
Lavender oil's calming effects make it a popular ingredient in bath products, including soap. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, lavender helps soothe stress and anxiety and promotes better sleep, making it an ideal soap for before-bedtime bathing or high-stress times. A few people have allergies to lavender so you should use the soap on a test patch before using it regularly, but lavender oil is generally safe for most people.
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