Meghan Markle’s homemade bath salt recipe, featured in her new Netflix series With Love, Meghan, has come under scrutiny from skincare professionals who warn that her casual approach to essential oils could pose serious risks.
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The royal recipe that’s raising eyebrows
In the first episode of her eight-part series, which premiered on 4 March, Markle shares a glimpse into her self-care routine, preparing a gift basket for her longtime friend and makeup artist, Daniel Martin. The centrepiece? A jar of DIY bath salts made with:
- Epsom salt
- Himalayan salt
- Arnica oil
- Lavender oil
However, Markle does not provide precise measurements, instead adjusting the mixture on the spot when she realises it doesn’t fill the jar.
Experts warn: Essential oils need careful handling
Skincare professionals have raised concerns about the potential risks of recreating Markle’s bath salts at home. Dr Ed Robinson, a cosmetic aesthetics doctor and member of the British College of Aesthetic Medicine, explained that essential oils like arnica and lavender must be diluted properly before use.
“The casual, imprecise approach can be risky, especially with essential oils. They are highly concentrated and, if not properly diluted, can lead to skin irritation, allergic reactions, or even chemical burns,” Robinson said.
He added that undiluted essential oils can damage the skin barrier, causing reactions that are difficult to treat.
‘You can’t just dump essential oils in’
Jennifer Christopherson, a licensed esthetician and YouTuber, has been particularly critical of Markle’s method. In an 18-minute video analysis, she called out the excessive use of arnica oil, referring to it as “a crap ton,” and warned that using essential oils incorrectly could lead to irritation or burns.
“You can’t just dump an essential oil in, give it to a friend, and be like, ‘Hey, have fun,’” Christopherson stated, urging viewers to research essential oil safety before attempting DIY skincare treatments.
A lesson in self-care safety
While Markle’s intention was to share a thoughtful, homemade gift, experts stress the importance of understanding the science behind skincare. Essential oils, though natural, require careful handling to avoid adverse reactions.
For those looking to create their own bath salts, professionals recommend using proper dilution ratios and consulting reliable sources to ensure a safe and soothing experience.
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Featured Image: Netflix
