Good news! There indeed are a few sun safe citrus essential oils to consider when blending outdoor topicals such as chemical free bug repellent, cooling body sprays or herbal salves, it's simply a matter of chemistry...
Definition of Phototoxicity, also called photoirritation, is a chemically induced skin irritation, requiring light, that does not involve the immune system. It is a type of photosensitivity. The skin response resembles an exaggerated sunburn.
If you love the fragrance of citrus essential oils and their amazing therapeutic properties, and need a citrus oil that can be exposed to the sun, invest in "sun safe" chemotypes for your outdoor blends but remember, ALL phototoxic citrus oils can be used on the skin as well just as long as that skin is covered when you're out in the sun.
