Do Essential Oils Evaporate? A Guide to Essential Oil Evaporation

In this news post, we'll be taking a deep dive into essential oil evaporation. You'll learn about the different factors that affect how quickly an essential oil evaporates, as well as what you can do to extend the life of your oils. By the end of this post, you'll have a solid understanding of how essential oils work and how to make them last as long as possible.
Do Essential Oils Evaporate? A Guide to Essential Oil Evaporation

Do essential oils evaporate? The simple answer is yes, they do! Let's dive a little deeper into this topic of essential oil evaporation, what causes it and how to slow it down. To minimize unwanted evaporation, there are several steps you can take, we will share them below. 

Do Essential Oils Evaporate?

Essential oils are very volatile and can evaporate quickly. Volatility is the speed at which a substance can evaporate. Evaporation refers to the change of substances from liquid to gaseous phases.

All essential oils share similar physical properties. Essential oils are strongly aromatic liquids at room temperatures, lipid-soluble, they do not dissolve in water, and they are highly volatile.

Evaporation rates are affected by temperature, molecular size, surface area, air circulation, and temperature.

Factors That Affect Essential Oil Evaporation

There are a few different factors that can affect how quickly an essential oil evaporates.

Air Circulation

The most important factor is the element of air. Airspeed, humidity, and temperature all play a role in how quickly an oil will evaporate.

Oil Composition

The second factor is the composition of the oil itself. Every essential oil is made up of different molecules, and each molecule has a different rate of evaporation. For example, lighter molecules like citrus oils will evaporate much more quickly than heavier molecules like myrrh or patchouli.

Essential Oil Container and Size

The final factor is container type. Some containers allow essential oils to evaporate more quickly than others, like clear or plastic. The only thing that can evaporate if the bottles are sealed tightly is the amount that completely saturates any air space between the oil and the lid.

You should empty your essential oils into smaller containers if you've used up a large amount of the oil. The volatile essential oils can saturate any air they are exposed to. A larger, half-empty container will hold more air than a smaller one.

Now that you understand what factors affect evaporation, let's talk about what you can do to extend the life of your oils.

Simple Ways to Extend the Life of Your Essential Oils

Essential oils are a wonderful way to enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy, but they can be costly. If you're wondering whether or not your essential oils are evaporating too quickly, here are a few things you can do to extend their life. 

  • The most important thing you can do is store your oils in a cool, dark place.
  • Heat and light will cause your oils to degrade more quickly, so avoid storing them in sunny spots or near heat sources.
  • Replace the caps immediately after you use the oils. This will reduce the amount of time the oil can be exposed to air.
  • You should also consider using a diffuser instead of applying your oils directly to your skin. When you apply them topically, they will begin to evaporate immediately and won't last as long.
  • If you want your oils to last longer, use them in a diffuser where they will be slowly released over time.
  • Bottles left open can lead to evaporation. Essential oils can become very concentrated and can cause adverse reactions so make sure to store them with the lid tightly sealed.
  • Reduce the number of times you open essential oil bottles. Every time you open your essential oil bottle's lid, the oil molecules inside evaporate.
  • When you're not using the bottles, make sure the caps are securely screwed on.

Essential oils are volatile and will inevitably evaporate. If you use specific essential oils everyday and want to keep them handy then it is not as important because you will be using it up faster and won't need to extend the life.

By storing them in a cool, dark place and keeping the lids on tight, you can help your essential oils last longer. Not opening your essential oil bottles as often will help reduce the risk of evaporation.

Add a few drops on a tissue and use that to inhale throughout the day.

How Fast Do Essential Oils Evaporate in a Day?

There are many factors that affect the rate essential oils evaporate. Essential oil vaporization rate is affected by the size of the molecules. When essential oils have enough energy to overcome oil's surface tension, they evaporate as a vapor.

The speed at which molecules move determines how much energy they have. To evaporate water at the required speeds, heavier molecules require more energy.

The temperature affects the rate at which essential oils evaporate. It increases the kinetic energy and speed of essential oil molecules. The molecules moving faster will be able to overcome surface tension and escape into gas phase.

Keep the bottles out of direct sunlight and heat. Heat increases molecules' kinetic energy which in turn increases the frequency at which they can overcome surface tension.

The surface area of essential oils affects their rate of evaporation. Essential oil liquids have a very thin layer. The surface area of essential oil liquids is more likely to be affected by the movement and escape of moving molecules.

The rate of essential oil extraction is affected by air circulation. The possibility of new evaporation will be reduced if essential oil vapors saturate the air around the container.

Constant air circulation can increase the rate of essential oils evaporation. This is done by blowing the saturated air out of the container and replacing it in "fresh" air that allows the oils to evaporate.

What does Evaporation Mean for Diffusion of Essential Oils?

Diffusers are machines that disperse essential oils in the air. Aromas fade faster for essential oils that evaporate quickly. The aroma of lighter oils will fade quickly, while that of heavier oils will last for a longer time.

Citrus essential oils are light-weight essential oils. These oils are top notes and do not last for long.

Essential oils of medium weight include Rose, Ginger, Geranium and Ginger. These oils produce what are known as middle notes. They provide a consistent aroma.

Essential oils that are heavy-weight include Myrrh, Patchouli, and Sandalwood. These oils produce what is known as base notes and last for a long period of time.

Other Problems with Leaving Essential Oil Bottles Open

Essential oils can also react with oxygen in the atmosphere. Essential oils can be oxidized, which alters their properties and changes their consistency and smell.

If essential oils are left open, moisture can get in. The oil will be stained by water droplets.

It is easy to knock over essential oil bottles. You can easily spill essential oil bottles onto your floor or other surfaces if they are partially or open. This can be costly as essential oils can be expensive. Additional costs include staining and causing damage to furniture.

Your pets and children may come in contact with oil if the bottles are dropped or knocked over while you're not there. Essential oils can cause skin irritations if they come in contact with skin. Pets and children can also inhale the oil, which could cause irritation to their sensitive digestive tracts.

Proper Storage Of Essential Oils Helps with Evaporation

Essential oils can also be subject to evaporation. If essential oils are not stored properly, they can become dangerously degraded.

Keep essential oils in a dark place. Direct sunlight can cause oil to be damaged, as we have already mentioned. Essential oils should be kept in bottles that are amber or cobalt-colored to reduce light exposure.

Essential oils should be kept dry to avoid water droplets tainting the oils. Essential oils should not be stored in places like bathrooms or laundry rooms because of the humidity.

To prevent moisture contamination, oxidation and evaporation, ensure that caps are securely screwed on essential oil bottles.

Essential oils should not be stored in your car, near open flames, or heat sources like ovens, stovetops, radiators, or space heaters. Essential oils can evaporate due to heat, and bottles could explode.

Final Thoughts on Essential Oil Evaporation

Essential oils are highly volatile and will quickly evaporate. They evaporate at a faster rate when there is more temperature, surface area and air circulation. However, the rate of evaporation decreases as there is more molecular weight.

It is important to reduce the amount of evaporation due to the high cost of these oils. Evaporation can be minimized by closing the caps immediately after you have finished using the bottles. Keep the reducer lid on the bottles. Use smaller bottles and keep them away from heat and light.

Handcrafted by Jennifer Lane, Certified Aromatherapist - US Shipping Only (no international shipping at this time)

No Time To DIY? Free US Shipping on Orders $10 or more!

Lavender and Cedarwood Essential Oil Blend - 10 ml Roller Bottle Aromatherapy Oils
Lavender and Cedarwood Essential Oil Roller Blend 10 ml Sleep, Anxiety $ 5.00 $ 7.99
Lavender and cedarwood essential oil blend is an incredibly soothing and calming mix. This blend is often used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and reduce stress. The sweet, woody aroma of these two oils combined creates a pleasant and calming scent that many people find comforting. This 10ml Lavender and Cedarwood Roller Blend offers an effective and calming aid for sleep problems and anxiety. The lavender essential oil contained in this blend helps to relax the body and mind, while the cedarwood essential oil helps to reduce nervous tension. LAVENDER AND CEDARWOOD ESSENTIAL OIL ROLLER BLEND INGREDIENTS Handcrafted Blend by Aromatherapist Jennifer Lane - Lavender and Cedarwood in a base of fractionated coconut oil. The oil blend comes in a 10 ML Roll On Bottle, made with 100% pure essential oils. Roller bottles are made of cobalt blue glass with stainless steel rollerballs and a black cap. Essential Oil Blend Highlights Volume: 10 milliliters Shelf Life: Should be used in 6-12 months Shipping: Items shipped from California. US shipping only, no international orders. Safety Precautions: Made for ages 12 and up. Essential oil roll-ons come ready-made at a four to five percent dilution in an organic fractionated coconut oil base. Do not use if allergic to any ingredient, test on skin before liberally applying. Do not ingest LAVENDER AND CEDARWOOD ESSENTIAL OIL BLEND BENEFITS Lavender and Cedarwood essential oil blend is a popular combination for aromatherapy and other natural health remedies. Blending lavender and cedarwood provides a powerful aroma that is known to improve sleep quality and reduce stress. Lavender and Cedarwood Benefits Lavender is commonly used for its calming and soothing effects, while cedarwood is known for its grounding and centering properties. Together, these two oils create a powerful blend that can be used to help ease stress and anxiety, while also providing a sense of grounding and focus. This blend can also be beneficial for those experiencing insomnia. This easy to use roller-ball bottle allows for effective topical application of the oil blend. Its calming and grounding aroma make it perfect for aromatherapy and natural healing remedies. This oil blend can also be used to aid skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne.  ORGANIC FRACTIONATED COCONUT OIL Fractionated Coconut Oil is a beneficial oil with a variety of uses. It is derived from coconut oil and is odorless, colorless, and has a longer shelf life than traditional coconut oil. It is also always in liquid form. Fractionated Coconut Oil is known for its ability to deeply moisturize the skin and dilute essential oils for safe topical application. NEED A CUSTOM BLEND? Contact me, I can customize this blend to your needs! How to Use Rollerball Blends Simply roll on the oil blend to your wrists, arms, upper chest, back, temples, feet, or neck. You can use to specifically target an area of concern, like applying to neck for tension or belly for upset stomach. For generalized aromatherapy purposes, apply to arms and chest to enjoy topical and aromatic benefits. The best part about this product is it can be used anywhere - at home, before heading out into the world, or taken with you for on the go use! Lavender and Cedarwood Roller Blend Lavender and cedarwood essential oil blend is a versatile and beneficial blend that can be used to reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep, and promote relaxation. Let this roller blend soothe nervous tension, ease muscle cramps, and support the respiratory system.  Want to DIY? Learn how to make roller bottle blends! *Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information provided here is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease, nor is it a substitute for medical advice.
Lavender and Peppermint Essential Oil Blend - 10 ml Roller Bottle Aromatherapy Oils
Lavender and Peppermint Essential Oil Roller Blend 10 ml Headache Pain $ 5.00 $ 7.99
This handcrafted Lavender and Peppermint Essential Oil Blend is a powerful combination of two of the most popular essential oils. This blend is known for its calming and uplifting effect, which can help to relieve stress, tension, and anxiety. It can also help to provide a sense of clarity and focus, and aid in relaxation. LAVENDER AND PEPPERMINT ESSENTIAL OIL ROLLER BLEND INGREDIENTS Handcrafted Blend by Aromatherapist Jennifer Lane - Lavender and Peppermint in a base of fractionated coconut oil. The oil blend comes in a 10 ML Roll On Bottle, made with 100% pure essential oils. Roller bottles are made of cobalt blue glass with stainless steel rollerballs and a black cap. Essential Oil Blend Highlights Volume: 10 milliliters Shelf Life: Should be used in 6-12 months Shipping: Items shipped from California. US shipping only, no international orders. Safety Precautions: Made for ages 12 and up. Essential oil roll-ons come ready-made at a five percent dilution in an organic fractionated coconut oil base. Do not use if allergic to any ingredient, test on skin before liberally applying. Do not ingest. LAVENDER AND PEPPERMINT ESSENTIAL OIL BLEND BENEFITS Lavender and Peppermint Oil Blend is a powerful combination of two of the most popular essential oils. It is known to be calming and uplifting, while also providing a sense of clarity and focus. Additionally, it is known to be an effective natural remedy for colds and flu. Lavender and Peppermint Essential Oil Benefits Lavender and peppermint can help to reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, and aid in digestion. The lavender oil helps to reduce stress and anxiety, while the peppermint oil helps to uplift mood, improve focus, and boost energy. In addition to its soothing effects, the combination of Lavender and Peppermint can be applied topically to help reduce pain, inflammation, and discomfort. Often used for headaches and backaches as well. ORGANIC FRACTIONATED COCONUT OIL Fractionated Coconut Oil is a beneficial oil with a variety of uses. It is derived from coconut oil and is odorless, colorless, and has a longer shelf life than traditional coconut oil. It is also always in liquid form. Fractionated Coconut Oil is known for its ability to deeply moisturize the skin and dilute essential oils for safe topical application. NEED A CUSTOM BLEND? Contact me, I can customize this blend to your needs! How to Use Rollerball Blends Simply roll on the oil blend to your wrists, arms, upper chest, back, temples, feet, or neck. You can use to specifically target an area of concern, like applying to neck for tension or belly for upset stomach. For generalized aromatherapy purposes, apply to arms and chest to enjoy topical and aromatic benefits. The best part about this product is it can be used anywhere - at home, before heading out into the world, or taken with you for on the go use! Lavender and Peppermint Roller Blend Lavender and peppermint roller blend is a popular combination for aromatherapy and home remedies. The mixture of these two essential oils offers a variety of therapeutic benefits, such as stress relief, pain relief, and relaxation. Want to DIY? Learn how to make roller bottle blends! *Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information provided here is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease, nor is it a substitute for medical advice.
Ginger and Peppermint Essential Oil Blend - 10 ml Roller Bottle Aromatherapy Oils for Nausea, Upset Stomach, Digestive Support
Ginger and Peppermint Essential Oil Roller Blend 10 ml - Nausea Digestion $ 5.00 $ 8.99
This handcrafted Ginger and Peppermint Essential Oil Blend is a combination that can provide a variety of benefits. This blend is often used for aromatherapy, and it can be used to help soothe and calm the mind and body. The blend of ginger and peppermint essential oil is known to help reduce stress, promote relaxation, and increase energy levels. In addition, this blend can be used to help relieve headaches, muscle aches, and soreness. It can also be used to support digestion and reduce nausea. GINGER AND PEPPERMINT ESSENTIAL OIL BLEND INGREDIENTS Handcrafted Blend by Aromatherapist Jennifer Lane - Ginger and Peppermint in a base of fractionated coconut oil. The oil blend comes in a 10 ML Roll On Bottle, made with 100% pure essential oils. Roller bottles are made of cobalt blue glass with stainless steel rollerballs and a black cap. Essential Oil Blend Highlights Volume: 10 milliliters Shelf Life: Should be used in 6-12 months Shipping: Items shipped from California. US shipping only, no international orders. Safety Precautions: Made for ages 12 and up. Essential oil roll-ons come ready-made at a five percent dilution in an organic fractionated coconut oil base. Do not use if allergic to any ingredient, test on skin before liberally applying. Do not ingest. GINGER AND PEPPERMINT ESSENTIAL OIL BLEND BENEFITS Ginger and peppermint essential oil may help to reduce anxiety and depression. The scent of this blend is known to be calming, and it will help to promote better sleep and relaxation. This blend can also be used as a natural remedy for headaches and nausea. Ginger and peppermint essential oils can be used to promote better breathing. The combination helps to open up the airways and provide relief from congestion and allergies. This blend can also help provide relief from asthma and other respiratory conditions. ORGANIC FRACTIONATED COCONUT OIL Fractionated Coconut Oil is a beneficial oil with a variety of uses. It is derived from coconut oil and is odorless, colorless, and has a longer shelf life than traditional coconut oil. It is also always in liquid form. Fractionated Coconut Oil is known for its ability to deeply moisturize the skin and dilute essential oils for safe topical application. NEED A CUSTOM BLEND? Contact me, I can customize this blend to your needs! How to Use Rollerball Blends Simply roll on the oil blend to your wrists, arms, upper chest, back, temples, feet, or neck. You can use to specifically target an area of concern, like applying to neck for tension or belly for upset stomach. For generalized aromatherapy purposes, apply to arms and chest to enjoy topical and aromatic benefits. The best part about this product is it can be used anywhere - at home, before heading out into the world, or taken with you for on the go use! This mixture of ginger and peppermint is a great way to provide a variety of benefits to the mind and body. This blend can be used for aromatherapy or as a natural remedy for various ailments. It can help to reduce stress, promote relaxation, and improve breathing. Want to DIY? Learn how to make roller bottle blends! *Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information provided here is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease, nor is it a substitute for medical advice.
Get answers on top essential oil questions for beginners to seasoned pros.

Frequently Asked Questions on Essential Oils

Essential oils are great because not only do they make you feel good physically, but mentally as well. I love having them around since they have so many benefits, like clearing the air of bad odors and improving moods. They can releasing calming scents in your home or office when used in a diffuser!

Essential oils are popular as all-natural, homeopathic remedies for everyday health issues. From headache pain to sleep issues, many people have reported positive results from essential oils. Yet despite their growing popularity, there is still much confusion and many misunderstandings about what they are and how they can be used safely and effectively.

We've compiled our top frequently asked questions (FAQs) in therapeutic essential oil use.

Guides on Recipes with Essential Oils, Aromatherapy Diffuser Blends, and Beginners eBook

Popular Essential Oil Guides

Loving Essential Oils recipe guide Recipes with essential oils guide by Loving essential oils
Ultimate Essential Oil Recipes Guide - DIY Blends $ 9.99
DIY Essential Oil Recipes Ultimate Guide - Download/Printable Instant digital download delivered to your email inbox Using essential oils for natural health and wellness can be really amazing. In this Ultimate DIY Recipes Guide you will learn simple ways to make homemade recipe with essential oils. I love making DIY products to replace store bought items and strive for a chemical and toxin free home. I enjoy using aromatherapy and essential oils every day to keep my family and myself healthy and happy. My hope with this recipe guide is to help you do the same for yourself and your family and friends. 150+ Easy & Effective Essential Oil Blends Ultimate Guide Includes: How to Make Essential Oil Recipes Items Needed for Recipe Making 8 Inhaler Blends for Energy 5 Peppermint Air Fresheners 5 Summer Roll Ons 7 Oily Blends for Mom 4 Lavender & Lemongrass Blends 4 Pain Butter Blends 6 EO Bathroom Recipes 4 Blends for Sore Feet 5 Immunity Blends for Kids PLUS MANY MORE RECIPES! Format: PDF download Author: Jennifer Lane, LovingEssentialOils.com Pages: 40+ (see photo below) *This is a digital download, nothing will be shipped. No refunds available on digital downloads.
essential oil difuser guide with DIY recipes and blends essential oil diffusing guide for sale
Essential Oil Diffusers - How To and Recipes Guide $ 9.99
Essential Oil Diffuser - How To Guide for Diffusing Instant digital download delivered to your email inbox How To Guide for Aromatherapy Diffusing With 200+ Diffuser Blends Diffusion. If you have ever been around anyone who loves using essential oils, chances are you have heard this world before. You may have heard them talk about diffusing their favorite essential oils, or the new diffuser that they just bought. Maybe you didn't know what they were talking about though. That's okay. In the guide we are going to be talking about everything diffusion - what it means, what diffusers are, how to diffuse, PLUS tons of diffuser blend recipes. By the time you are done reading this, you'll be a pro at diffusing essential oils. 40 page Diffuser Guide Includes: What are Essential Oil Diffusers? Benefits of Essential Oil Diffusers Different Types of Diffusers Diffuser Safety Guidelines How Long Should I Run My Diffuser? What Oils Can I Diffuse? How Much Essential Oil to Use How Can I Mix My Own Diffuser Blends? How to Diffuse Essential Oils How to Clean a Diffuser 200+ Diffuser Blend Recipes Blank Diffuser Blend Recipe Template Format: PDF download Author: Jennifer Lane, LovingEssentialOils.com Pages: 40 (see photo below) *This is a digital download, nothing will be shipped. No refunds available on digital downloads.
Essential Oils Beginner Guide by Loving essential oils beginners guide to essential oils by loving essential oils
Essential Oil Guide for Beginners - Getting Started $ 5.99
Beginner's Essential Oil Guide - Download/Printable Instant digital download delivered to your email inbox Learn how to safely and effectively make essential oils a part of your everyday life. Everything you need to know about essential oils. If you have ever been around anyone who loves using essential oils, chances are you have heard all the wonderful health and wellness benefits they have experienced from using them. Avoid the overwhelm and learn exactly what you need to know in this guide that is chock-full of information perfect for beginning essential oil users. In the guide we are going to be talking about everything essential oils - what they are, how they can help you, ways to use them, PLUS essential oil blend recipes. 30+ page Beginner's Guide Includes: Essential Oil Basics Benefits of Essential Oils Essential Oil Safety Guidelines Skin Patch Testing Phototoxic Essential Oils Diluting Essential Oils Using Essential Oils Essential Oils Head to Toes Common Essential Oil Uses Top 10 Essential Oils Diffusing Essential Oils Beginner Diffuser Blends Easy Inhaler Blends Blank Essential Oil Recipe Cards Template By the time you are done reading this guide, you will be able to confidently add essential oils to your daily routine. Guide will be delivered by email. Format: PDF download Author: Jennifer Lane, LovingEssentialOils.com Pages: 30+ (see photo below) *This is a digital download, nothing will be shipped. No refunds available on digital downloads.
Aromatherapy Checklists - Essential Oil Uses Guide Aromatherapy Checklists - Essential Oil Uses Guide
Aromatherapy Checklists - Essential Oil Uses Guide $ 4.99
Instant digital download delivered to your email inbox There are plenty of supportive essential oils waiting to assist you in your daily life for common issues that come up. Be well equipped and confident in your essential oil choices with these easy to read Aromatherapy Checklists! The chosen oils on the checklists will help guide your path. Finding what works best for YOU and your loved ones is part of the aromatherapy journey! Aromatherapy Checklists Includes: Basic Safety Precautions 20 Must Have Essential Oils checklist Common Essential Oil Tools and DIY Ingredients Oils for Digestion Oils for Lack of Sleep Oils for Allergies Oils for Stress Oils for Headaches Oils for Bad Odors DIY Recipes and Blends And so much more!! Format: PDF download Author: Jennifer Lane, LovingEssentialOils.com Pages: 33 (see photo below) *This is a digital download, nothing will be shipped. No refunds available on digital downloads.
Essential Oil Cleaning Guide with Printable Labels Essential Oil Cleaning Guide with Printable Labels
Essential Oil Cleaning Guide with Printable Labels $ 4.99
Instant digital download delivered to your email inbox Looking for a safe and easy way to clean your home?Learn how to naturally clean your home with essential oils! You can get rid of all the toxic chemical cleaning products and enjoy natural cleaning with this DIY Guide. Plus get printable DIY Printable Labels. Essential Oil Cleaning Guide Includes: Best Essential Oils for Cleaning Ingredients for Natural Cleaning 30 DIY Cleaning Recipes Essential Oil Safety Precautions Printable Cleaning Label sheets Format: PDF download Author: Jennifer Lane, LovingEssentialOils.com Pages: 27 (see photo below) *This is a digital download, nothing will be shipped. No refunds available on digital downloads.
Essential Oils for Mood and Emotions guide for emotions and essential oils
Essential Oils Guide for Emotions and Emotional Healing $ 4.99
Essential Oils and Emotions Guide Instant digital download delivered to your email inbox Do you ever wonder why our emotions often dictate how we feel physically? Learn how to use Essential Oils to support your emotional wellness. You will also find out about the connection between emotions and essential oils. Guide teaches: Why Use Essential Oils for Emotions How to Use Essential Oils for Emotions DIY Inhaler Recipes for Emotional Well-being How to Use a Diffuser with Diffuser Blends List of Emotions that Essential Oils Promote and Address Format: PDF download Author: Jennifer Lane, LovingEssentialOils.com Pages: 17 *This is a digital download, nothing will be shipped. No refunds available on digital downloads.
Follow Us: