The phrase “carrier oil” has become quite common nowadays. However, many people don’t know this substance’s importance. They are often a package deal when it comes to essential oils.

The general rule for applying essential oils is:  

“They must be diluted with a carrier oil. They should NEVER be applied directly to the skin.”

What Is Carrier Oil?

Carrier oils are extracted from plants. They are the same as essential oils but less potent. Carrier oils are pressed from various sources, including:

• Vegetables
• Kernels
• Nuts
• Seeds

They last longer because they are thicker than essential oils. Hence, they don’t evaporate quickly. As a result, they absorb into the skin and offer more benefits.

Facts About Carrier Oils

Here are a few things you need to know about carrier oils:

• They help dilute essential oils, reducing their potency
• The word “carry” means the carrier oil carries the diluted essential oil to the skin. This lessens irritation when the essential oil is applied
• Most carrier oils are lightly scented or unscented
• They don’t interfere with the therapeutic properties of essential oils
• They can be used alone and with other carrier oils to nourish the skin

Nutritional Profile

Three nutrients are present in high concentrations in carrier oils:

Vitamins

• Vitamin E reduces wrinkles and fine lines
• Vitamin C evens skin tone
• Vitamin D reduces inflammation

Antioxidants: offer anti-aging benefits that lessen the appearance of damaged tissues and scarring

Fatty Acids: Nourish, hydrate and soften hair and skin

Top 12 Carrier Oils

Carrier oils can be used in various ways. The top two include aromatherapy and topical application.

• Aromatherapy: This practice involves inhaling essential oil through a diffuser. The scent strengthens your nervous system
• Topical Application: Creating a blend with different essential oils and carrier oils and applying it on the skin

For cosmetic use, carrier oils are not approved by the FDA. However, those used for cooking are regulated and serve double duty. Look for a reputable retailer to guarantee you are purchasing an original oil. These oils are cold-pressed, pure, and devoid of additives or preservatives.

Apricot Kernel Oil

Apricot seeds are used to make this oil. It has a lot of fatty acids and vitamin E. It readily absorbs into the skin as a moisturizer.

The oil has a nutty, slightly sweet scene. This carrier oil is available in edible form and for cosmetic use.

Uses

• The oil helps calm irritated and itch skin
• You can use it as a bath oil or massage oil to soften the skin

Jojoba Oil

The seeds of the jojoba plant are used to obtain this oil. It smells subtle and nutty. Most people are unaware of this crucial truth about jojoba oil: It is wax. It closely resembles the natural oil on your skin, sebum. This gives it powerful moisturizing properties.

It helps lessen oil production in the skin, which prevents acne.

Uses

• It helps keep your skin pores open
• It easily absorbs into the skin, making it a good option for soothing baths, massage, and facial moisturizers

Coconut Oil

Ripe coconuts are used to make edible coconut oil. There are two types available: refined and unrefined.

Refined Coconut Oil

The white, meaty portion of a dried coconut known as copra is used to obtain this oil. Here’s how it’s done:

• The oil is degummed and washed in water. This helps separate the oil and gums
• Lye is added to the oil and washed with water again. This removes fatty acids
• It is bleached to remove contaminants
• After deodorization, the oil loses its flavor and aroma

Since refined coconut is not all-natural, it is not recommended to be used as a carrier oil.

Unrefined Coconut Oil

This oil is also extracted from the coconut’s fleshy meat. However, it is processed without chemicals. This helps it retain its flavor and aroma. There are two ways to extract it:

• Dry: In this method, the oil is extracted from the coconut’s dry flakes through a machine
• Wet: In this method, the oil is extracted by pressing coconut flesh and milk

Uses

• It contains polyphenols and fatty acids that nourish the skin
• It is a great carrier oil for skincare routines
• It can be used as a makeup remover

Olive Oil

This is extracted from pressed olives. It is regarded as one of the world’s healthiest oils. The soothing scent of the oil makes it perfect for aromatherapy. The ideal oil for aromatherapy and skin care preparations is extra virgin olive oil.

 Its scent might mask the aroma of essential oils.

Uses

• It contains plant sterols and fatty acids, making it perfect for moisturizing and cleansing dry skin
• It can also be used for massages
• It can be used as an ingredient in DIY soap-making

Sweet Almond Oil

Kernels of almonds are used to make this oil. It smells strongly of nuts. Because it is lightweight, it seeps into the skin with ease. The fact that this carrier oil is so effective at hydrating dry skin is among its greatest advantages.

The ideal oil for aromatherapy is sweet almond oil. Nevertheless, the perfume of essential oils is muted by its potent scent.

Uses

• It can be used for massages
• It can be used as an ingredient in DIY soap-making

Argan Oil

This oil is made from the kernels of argan tree fruit. It is native to Morocco. Argan oil is a traditional oil and is used to nourish bodies inside out. It is edible and has a nutty scent. The oil contains monosaturated fatty acids, and Vitamin E and A in high amounts.

Uses

• The oil treats dry hair and skin, skin inflammation and wrinkles
• It is the perfect oil for massages and general skin care

Black Seed Oil

This oil comes from nigella seeds. Its plant grows in Eastern Europe. The black seeds are added to various dishes in Asian cuisine. The oil contains saturated and unsaturated fatty acids.

Uses

• This oil was used in ancient times to soothe skin
• As a folk remedy, it helps treat psoriasis, acne and eczema
• It is great for massages, facial care, and general skin care

Rosehip Oil

The kernels of the Rosa rubiginosa or Rosa moschata bush are used to obtain this oil. Unlike the typical red roses, their blossoms are unique. As the blossoms wither and the petals fall off, the rosehip becomes visible. This is the source of the oil. Rosehip oil smells nothing like roses, despite its name. It smells nutty and earthy.  

Uses

• The oil contains Vitamin C and A that help fight aging
• It reverses sunburns.
• It is ideal for moisturizing, massages, and dry skin remedies

Grape Seed Oil

Grapes are used to extract grape seed oil. It is produced during the wine-making process. Because of the oil’s high vitamin E content, it encourages wrinkles and skin repair.

Uses

• It is lightweight and easily absorbs into the skin, making it the perfect moisturizer
• It can be used as a massage oil
• It reduces inflammation that causes breakouts

Sunflower Oil

Sunflower seeds are used to obtain this oil. It smells mild and neutral. Sunflower oil shields the skin against pathogens and poisons that can lead to infection. It is, therefore, ideal for skin that is inflamed.

Uses

• The oil moisturizes and softens skin by soothing irritation
• It is the perfect oil for massages and general skin care
• It helps improve oily and dry skin

Avocado Oil

This is a thick, heavy oil made from the avocado fruit. It has a strong, nutty scent. Avocado oil contains monounsaturated fatty acids and oleic acid. These help improve damaged and dry skin.

Uses

• This oil is perfect for body creams and DIY dry skin remedies
• It increases collagen production
• It treats acne
• It suits all skin types

Note: Avocado oil might increase sebum production. You should avoid using it if you have acne

Macadamia Oil

The Macadamia Tree nuts are used to make macadamia oil. It feels greasy to touch and is really potent. Its subtle aroma is gratifying to the senses. The oil has cooling, calming, and moisturizing qualities.  

Uses

• It promotes a youthful glow
• It allows you to manage unruly hair
• Its continued use can help you maintain shiny hair

Steps to Diluting Essential Oil

Always buy essential oils and carrier oils from a known brand, such as Maverick Oils. Carrier oils usually don’t cause an allergic reaction. However, always do a patch test first. Here’s how:

• Place a small amount of oil on your inner wrist
• Cover the spot with a bandage
• Remove the bandage after 24 hours and check for any reaction
• If your skin looks red, rinse it thoroughly and try another essential oil

Do not use oils derived from tree nuts if you have a nut allergy. These include sweet almond, argan, and apricot kernel oil.

Here’s how to combine essential oils with carrier oils to prevent them from irritating skin:

1% Dilution

This is the recommended dilution ratio for pregnant women, chronically ill people, elders and children.

• 1 Drop of Essential Oil: 1 Tsp Carrier Oil
• 3 Drops of Essential Oil: 1 Tbsp Carrier Oil
• 6 Drops of Essential Oil: 1 Oz. Carrier Oil

2% Dilution

This is the recommended dilution ratio for adults. It can be used daily.

• 2 Drops of Essential Oil: 1 Tsp Carrier Oil
• 6 Drops of Essential Oil: 1 Tbsp Carrier Oil
• 12 Drops of Essential Oil: 1 Oz. Carrier Oil

3% Dilution

This is the recommended dilution ratio for people with acute injury or specific illnesses. The diluted oil should be applied for a short while and then wiped.

• 3 Drops of Essential Oil: 1 Tsp Carrier Oil
• 9 Drops of Essential Oil: 1 Tbsp Carrier Oil
• 18 Drops of Essential Oil: 1 Oz. Carrier Oil

Choosing a Carrier Oil

There are dozens of carrier oils available on the market, which is why it is important to know how each oil works.

Following are a couple of tips to assist you in finding the right carrier oil:

Know Your Skin Type

What’s your skin type?

• Normal
• Oily
• Dry
• Combination
• Xeroderma
• Sensitive

Let’s say your skin is oily, especially the T zone. In this case, jojoba oil is the best option as it regulates sebum production.

Look for Cold-Pressed and Organic Oils

Such carrier oils contain fewer impurities. Make sure to check the production date. The more refined the oil, the lower its nutritional value. This means that the oil lacks essential vitamins and antioxidants. The fresher the oil, the higher its quality. The older the oil, the fewer its benefits.

Try Out Different Carrier Oils

Just because the first carrier oil you used caused an allergic reaction doesn’t mean you should give up on it. There are plenty from where that came. Different ingredients react differently on the skin. For example, your friend can’t stop talking about how amazing their skin feels after applying almond oil. However, when you try it, it feels heavy on the skin.

Read Reviews

Reviews are the best way to get valuable insight into how each carrier oil performs. Although carrier oils are not expensive, it is better to check what others are saying about them. Honest feedback will allow you to make an informed decision. Who knows, this might help you discover your magic skin and hair potion.

A high-quality carrier oil makes all the difference. It benefits both your mind and body. Not only that, the blend must cooperate with your skin. A carrier oil will indulge your senses and pamper your skin with its distinct qualities. There is bound to be one oil that is perfect for you.

Explore the extensive selection of carrier oils by Maverick Oils. Visit our website and learn about their numerous applications and advantages.