Derived from the fatty portion of plants (think seeds, kernels or nuts), carrier oils differ greatly from essential oils in that they possess a relatively neutral smell and do not evaporate quickly. These qualities make them the perfect vehicle for carrying essential oils into the skin and body.
They Slow Absorption.
Adding a carrier oil to an essential oil reduces the concentration and slows down the absorption rate without diminishing or altering the essential oil’s therapeutic properties. This kind of dilution is especially important with “hot” oils, like Oregano, Thieves, Wintergreen and Cinnamon Bark, which can cause a burning sensation when applied to the skin.
They Enhance the Therapeutic Properties of Essential Oils.
While they do not possess the same therapeutic power as essential oils, carrier oils do offer healing properties of their own. That means you can combine your essential oil with a carrier oil for even greater benefit.
For example, Frankincense essential oil supports smooth, radiant skin. Avocado oil is vitamin rich and incredibly moisturizing. Together, the two do more to facilitate healthy skin than either could alone.
Carrier oils vary widely in consistency, absorption rates, aroma and other characteristics, so research and experiment until you find the right ones for you.
They Facilitate Even and Easier Application.
A carrier oil makes it easier to distribute your essential oil evenly over larger areas of the body.
Quality Matters.
Many people dive into the world of essential oils because they are pursuing a more natural way of life. If that’s the case for you, scrutinize labels and use the best quality carrier oils you can afford. Pure, unprocessed oils that are labeled “organic,” “cold-pressed,” and/or “unrefined” are the richest in skin-nourishing vitamins, minerals and proteins. Carry the essential oils into the skin and body
Some of the most common carrier oils include the following:
Avocado Oil
- Heavy, thick and rich
- Filled with proteins, omega 3 fatty acids, and antioxidants
- Absorbs quickly and deeply into the skin
Grapeseed Oil
- Light, thin consistency
- Great for sensitive skin types
- Well-suited for massages because of its smooth glide and satin-like finish
Sweet Almond Oil
- Medium consistency
- Commonly-used all-purpose carrier oil
- May cause a reaction to those with nut allergies.
Young Living V-6 Carrier Oil
- Combination of fractionated coconut oil, grapeseed oil, sweet almond oil, wheat germ oil (contains a lot of vitamin E and acts as a natural preservative), sunflower oil and olive oil
- Moisturizes and nourishes the skin
- May cause a reaction to those with nut allergies.
Jojoba Oil
- Medium consistency
- Superior, non-greasy absorption
- Most closely resembles the sebum produced by our skin
Olive Oil
- Thicker consistency; leaves skin feeling oily
- Easy to find
- Full-bodied (and not always pleasant) aroma
Fractionated Coconut Oil
- Liquid at room temperature
- No noticeable aroma
- Absorbs well and is non-greasy
Coconut Oil
- Solid at room temperature
- Smells distinctly of coconut
- Can leave an oily feeling layer on top of the skin
Cocoa Butter
- Solid and difficult to work with at room temperature
- Best when melted and blended with other carrier oils
- Sweet, chocolate aroma
Shea Butter
- Solid at room temperature
- Nutty aroma
- Creates a moisturizing, waxy-feeling layer
Recent Comments