What is a Carrier Oil and How to Use It?

While using essential oils in aromatherapy is a trend, what can add more value to the process is using another oil to mix and apply topically, depending on the desired results. That’s where carrier oil comes into the picture. 

What is Carrier Oil?

As the name suggests, carrier oil is an oil with little or no scent that is used to dilute or “carry” essential oils to the skin safely. Derived mainly from the seeds, kernels, or nuts of a plant, carrier oils help in the absorption of essential oils, showcasing their full potential in aromatherapy and skincare.

Why Use Carrier Oil with Essential Oils?

Skin absorbs at least 1-5 % of essential oils. Concentrated essential oils can cause adverse reactions, leading to skin allergies like rashes, inflammation, and redness. Diluting essential oils with carrier oils prevents these issues and ensures safe application.

• Dilution Ratio

When mixing essential oils with carrier oils, remember the ratio: 15-20 drops of essential oil per 6 teaspoons of carrier oil, according to Heathline.

• EOBBD Label

Make sure you buy essential oils with an EOBBD (essential oil  botanically and biochemically defined) label, which marks a quality test to ensure proficiency in  each step of the distillation process.

Types of Carrier Oils

Choosing the right carrier oil is an important task for getting the desired results. Here’s a list of popular carrier oils used to dilute essential oils for aromatherapy, skincare, and massage:

Jojoba Carrier Oil

Jojoba oil, derived from the seeds of the jojoba plant, is known for its moisturising and healing properties. It’s rich in vitamin E and the vitamin B complex, promoting hydration without clogging pores. Jojoba oil is ideal for treating sunburns, reducing wrinkles, and nourishing dry hair. It is a robust bulk carrier oil due to its high antioxidant levels and long shelf life.

Grapeseed Carrier Oil

Grapeseed oil is a great source of vitamin E, even more than olive oil. Its antioxidant properties provide moisture and protect the skin from free radicals, potentially lowering the aging effect. According to Healthline, grapeseed oil's antimicrobial properties can help treat acne outbreaks.

Almond Sweet Carrier Oil

Almond sweet oil, extracted from the seed of the almond fruit, is lightweight and absorbs easily, making it a popular choice in aromatherapy and skincare. It has a strong scent, which can compress the aroma of essential oils, so use it wisely.

Argan Carrier Oil

Argan oil, used for ages for its beneficial effects on skin, hair, and nails, can be applied topically or ingested orally. It treats dry skin, hair, wrinkles, and skin inflammation, making it a powerful carrier oil for massage and skincare.

Avocado Carrier Oil

Avocado oil, which is thick and heavy, is rich in vitamins A, vitamin D, and vitamin  E, nourishing and moisturising the skin. Its high penetration rate and anti-inflammatory properties make it perfect for soothing dry, irritated skin.

Rosehip Carrier Oil

Rosehip carrier oil, extracted from the seeds of wild rose bushes, is filled with vitamins A and vitamin C, known for their skin-regenerative properties. It helps reduce scars, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation, making it an excellent choice for dry, ageing, or sun-damaged skin.

Top Uses of Carrier Oil in Aromatherapy

Carrier oils play a crucial role in diluting essential oils, improving their application, and providing numerous other benefits:

Dilution

Carrier oils dilute essential oils, making them safe for topical application and reducing the risk of skin irritation.

Massage

They provide a smooth base for massage oils, allowing quick absorption of essential oils and giving a calming effect. 

Learn how essential oils are used in aromatherapy to have a calming effect. Here

Moisturization

Carrier oils deeply nourish and hydrate the skin, enhancing the effects of essential oils.

Improves Absorption

They enhance the absorption of essential oils into the skin, maximising their therapeutic benefits.

Skin Sensitivity

Carrier oils reduce the strong effects of direct application of essential oils, making them suitable for sensitive skin.

Conclusion

Carrier oils bring out the best of essential oils by providing a base and enhancing their therapeutic values. They help in moisturizing and nourishing your skin, making it possible to enjoy the benefits of essential oils. Different combinations of carrier oils and essential oils can provide unique health benefits. 

Do not forget to follow the dilution guidance for safe and effective use.

FAQ’s 

1. Can carrier oils expire?

Yes, carrier oils can expire. Most carrier oils have a shelf life of 1-2 years if stored properly in a cool, dark place. Oils with higher levels of unsaturated fats, like grape seed and rosehip, may have shorter shelf lives. Always check for changes in smell, colour, or consistency as indicators of spoilage.

2. Are there any carrier oils that are not recommended for certain skin types?

Yes, some carrier oils may not be suitable for certain skin types. For instance, coconut oil is comedogenic and might clog pores, making it less ideal for acne-prone skin. Conversely, jojoba and grapeseed oils are non-comedogenic and better suited for oily or acne-prone skin.

3. Can carrier oils be ingested?

Some carrier oils, such as coconut oil, olive oil, and avocado oil, are edible and commonly used in cooking. However, not all carrier oils are safe for ingestion, especially those that are cosmetic-grade. Always ensure the oil is food-grade before consuming it and consult with a healthcare provider if unsure.

4. Can I use carrier oils on my hair?

Yes, many carrier oils are beneficial for hair health. For example, argan oil is known for its ability to moisturise and nourish hair, reduce frizz, and promote shine. Jojoba oil can help with dandruff and dry scalp issues, while coconut oil is excellent for deep conditioning treatments. Check out our full guide on carrier oil for hair.Here

5. Are there any allergic reactions associated with carrier oils?

While carrier oils are generally safe, some individuals may have allergic reactions to specific oils. For instance, those with nut allergies should avoid nut-based oils like almond or hazelnut oil. Always conduct a patch test before using a new carrier oil to check for any adverse reactions.

6. How do I choose the right carrier oil for essential oils?

While choosing a carrier oil, consider the following:

• Skin type and sensitivity
• Desired therapeutic effects
• Aroma and consistency

For example, jojoba oil is great for balancing oily skin, while rosehip oil is excellent for anti-aging and skin regeneration. Understanding the properties of both the carrier and essential oils will help you make the best choice. Also, read significance of essential oils for better implementation. Here

7. Can carrier oils be mixed together?

Yes, carrier oils can be mixed together to combine their benefits. For instance, you might mix jojoba oil with rosehip oil for a combination of hydration and skin regeneration properties. Mixing carrier oils allows you to customise your skincare and aromatherapy treatments to suit your specific needs.