Carrier oils play a crucial role in effectively applying essential oils topically. Whether you’re already familiar with them, have read about them, or use them regularly, these oils enhance the benefits of essential oils. In this guide, we will explore the different types of carrier oils, their benefits, and how to use them in your essential oil blends.
WHAT ARE CARRIER OILS?
A carrier oil is a plant-based oil used topically. When you blend it with essential oils, it nourishes, protects, and hydrates the skin. Though often called vegetable oils, carrier oils come from various plant parts, such as seeds, nuts, and fruits, making them versatile for skincare.
Carrier oils are more stable than essential oils and stay on the skin longer, allowing for better absorption. Due to their stability, we often call them fixed oils.
So, how do carrier oils connect with essential oils? Let’s dive in…
WHY ARE CARRIER OILS IMPORTANT?
The effectiveness of essential oils is greatly enhanced by the use of carrier oils. These oils provide essential hydration, nourishment, and protection for the skin. Diluting essential oils with carrier oils helps prevent skin irritation caused by concentrated ingredients. In addition, they improve absorption, allowing the therapeutic properties of essential oils to penetrate the skin more effectively.
- Diluting Essential Oils…
The high concentration of essential oils makes them potent healing agents, requiring only a few drops at a time. Even small amounts can cause skin irritation, leading to itching or soreness. To prevent these effects, many people dilute essential oils with carrier oils, making them safe for topical application.
- Providing Stability…
The volatile nature of essential oils causes them to evaporate quickly when exposed to air, reducing their effectiveness and hindering skin absorption. In contrast, carrier oils have a stable structure, allowing essential oils to remain intact and absorb slowly, providing prolonged benefits to the skin.
- Increase therapeutic and nutritional value…
While carrier oils aren’t as concentrated as essential oils, they offer their own therapeutic benefits and essential nutrients. These oils enhance the blend’s overall performance, boosting its effectiveness in nourishing and improving skin health.
- Make Application Easy…
One practical benefit of carrier oils is that they make applying essential oil blends easier. They increase the volume of the blend, allowing for smooth, even application. It’s hard to imagine applying just two drops of essential oil all over your body, but carrier oils make it simple and effective.
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ORGANIC AND INORGANIC OILS?
Organic oils (also known as unrefined oils) undergo minimal heat and gentle extraction methods, preserving the oil’s natural nutrients. These oils provide the highest concentration of vitamins, antioxidants, and other beneficial compounds for the skin.
Oils extracted through methods like Cold Expeller Pressing (temperature maintained between 26°C – 32°C) or Expeller Pressing (temperature maintained between 49°- 93°C) are considered organic, ensuring they retain their pure, nutrient-rich qualities.
Inorganic oils (also known as refined oils) undergo harsh treatments like high pressure, high temperatures, or chemical processes that strip the oil of its natural properties. Refined oils may get deodorized, bleached, or chemically treated to remove impurities, which reduces their nutritional value. Oils extracted through the solvent extraction method are also classified as inorganic, as the solvent leaves traces in the oil, further compromising its purity and nutrient content.
ARE ORGANIC OILS REALLY BETTER?
While organic oils are often praised for their superior nourishment and higher nutrient content compared to inorganic oils, they may not always be the best choice for every skincare formulation. For facial and body care products, people typically prefer organic oils due to their purity and nutrient density. However, for products focused on body care or mass production, inorganic oils may be more suitable.
Inorganic oils offer several advantages, including lower cost and longer shelf life compared to organic oils. These benefits make refined oils a practical choice for many formulations. Additionally, because people often blend essential oils with carrier oils, using refined inorganic oils can help reduce strong, unpleasant scents that might otherwise affect the final product.
WHAT FACTORS NEED TO BE CONSIDERED BEFORE SELECTING A CARRIER OIL?
Now that you’ve chosen the right oil, let’s explore the different aspects of carrier oils. This guide will help you understand what to consider when selecting the best carrier oil for your skincare needs
- Clashing Scents – While this may seem repetitive, it’s crucial: clashing scents can negatively affect your mood and physical comfort. When blending essential oils with carrier oils, avoid using oils with strong, overpowering odors. Mixing two potent scents can interfere with the therapeutic effects of the essential oils and create an unpleasant fragrance that may cause discomfort.
- Penetration Speed – Carrier oils play a key role in allowing enough time for the absorption of essential oils. The penetration speed of the carrier oil is crucial in this process. Thicker carrier oils with slower absorption rates are ideal for less volatile essential oils. On the other hand, highly volatile essential oils need a blend with fast-absorbing carrier oils to ensure optimal absorption and effectiveness.
- Skin Type – When selecting carrier oils, consider your specific skin type. Some oils work well for dry skin, but they may not be as effective for acne-prone or oily skin. Choose the right oil to meet your skin’s unique needs.
- Shelf-Life – When selecting carrier oils for skincare, choose oils with a longer shelf life. However, this doesn’t mean you should only use refined oils. Some organic oils naturally have a longer shelf life, making them a viable option for your skincare blends.
CARRIER OILS Shea butter X0 OFFERS AND THEIR BENEFITS
Certain carrier oils are preferred in skincare and cosmetic products due to their high nutrient content, stability, and skin benefits. Here’s a list of the carrier oils featured in Shea Butter XO blends…
Coconut Oil: Deep Moisture and Skin Protection
Coconut oil is a popular choice in skincare and aromatic massage. It is known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Coconut oil can be used in combination with other products to treat various skin conditions, such as acne. However, it is comedogenic, meaning it can clog pores, so it’s important to thoroughly cleanse your skin before applying it to your face.
Avocado Oil: Nourishment and Collagen Boost
Rich in vitamins A, E, and D, avocado oil helps nourish and tone the skin. This nutrient-rich oil is also great for preventing wrinkles, improving acne, and promoting collagen production. It supports the skin’s natural healing process, making it ideal for various skin types.
Jojoba Oil: Light and Non-Comedogenic
Jojoba Oil – A lightweight oil that is easily absorbed into the skin, jojoba oil is known for its deep cleansing properties. It’s non-comedogenic, meaning it helps control the production of excess sebum. This oil also acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, which can help improve the appearance of acne-prone skin.
Olive Oil: Hydration and Free Radical Protection
Olive oil is known for its ability to deeply hydrate and protect the skin. Its high antioxidant content helps guard the skin against free radical damage. However, its thick, greasy texture can sometimes lead to acne breakouts, so it’s best suited for dry and sensitive skin.
Sweet Almond Oil: Brightening and Anti-Aging
Sweet almond oil is a powerhouse for skin care, reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and even under-eye circles. Rich in vitamins A, E, and Omega-3, it helps nourish and tone the skin, making it ideal for dry or mature skin. It also promotes the appearance of smoother, healthier skin.
Palm Oil: Nourishing and Healing for Sensitive Skin
Palm oil is a surprisingly effective skincare oil that nourishes and tones the skin. Often underestimated, this natural oil is particularly beneficial for improving the appearance of dry and sensitive skin. It can also treat various skin conditions, such as psoriasis and eczema. Additionally, palm oil helps prevent acne, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and acts as a powerful anti-inflammatory. Rich in vitamin A, vitamin E, and Omega-3, it also supports the healing of wounds.
Argan Oil: Nourishing and Anti-Aging
Argan oil is widely used in skincare for its powerful anti-aging properties. It helps minimize the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and stretch marks, while also treating acne. Rich in essential nutrients, argan oil nourishes and tones the skin, making it a must-have for maintaining healthy, radiant skin.
Wheat Germ Oil: Anti-Aging and Acne-Fighting
Many people overlook the benefits of wheat germ oil for skincare, but it’s a powerful oil that helps nourish and tone the skin. In addition, it helps prevent premature aging and combats free radical damage. Known for being non-comedogenic, this oil is a great addition to acne treatment products. Plus, it can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, promoting smoother, healthier skin.
If you’re unsure which carrier oil suits your skin, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help you find the perfect oil for your skincare needs.
NOTE*: Shea Butter XO offers blends featuring the carrier oils listed here. If we add new oils to our inventory, we will update this list to reflect the latest additions.Shea Butter XO currently offers blends with the carrier oils listed here. If we add new oils to our inventory, we will update this list accordingly.
