Bath Oil

What is bath oil?

Bath oil is any oil added to bath water to smooth, soften and moisturize dry skin. Bath oils often include herbs, flowers and other scented ingredients.

Bath oil may come in a bottle, or it may come as bath oil beads or pearls.

Bath oil is safe when used in the right way.

What happens if you swallow bath oil or get it in your eyes?

In most cases, you will be fine. Swallowing a small amount of bath oil will likely not cause any symptoms. If you swallow more than a mouthful, you could get diarrhea, have stomach cramps or throw up.

Getting bath oil in your lungs can cause pneumonia. This is rare, but it can be serious. The oil can get in your lungs if it “goes down the wrong pipe,” which will make you cough, choke or gag.

If you get bath oil in your eyes, it may burn and sting. 

What should you do if someone swallowed bath oil or got it in their eye?

If the person:

• Got bath oil in their eyes: Rinse their eyes with warm water for 15 minutes. Call the poison center at 1-800-222-1222, chat online or text POISON to 85511 for directions on how to do this in the right way.
• Swallowed bath oil:
  • If they are not coughing, give them a little water to wash out the taste. Do not make them throw up.
  • If they are coughing, choking or gagging, call the poison center at 1-800-222-1222, chat online or text POISON to 85511.

How can I prevent bath oil poisonings?

Keep bath oil, bath beads and other personal care products up high, out of the reach of children and pets, to prevent accidental swallowing.