In the world of Aromatherapy where essential oils remain the star of the show, carrier oils play a crucial role too. While essential oils are known for their multifunctional healing and therapeutic properties, carrier oils provide a medium to be safely used on the skin through dilution and blending. Understanding the power of carrier oil benefits becomes necessary to soak in the true potential of Aromatherapy.
So, without further ado let’s try to understand what are carrier oils, how to use them, their unique properties, and their significance in Aromatherapy.
What are carrier oils?
Carrier oils can also be referred to as base oils and are derived from seeds, and nuts of a plant through various extraction methods. Unlike essential oils that are highly potent and concentrated, carrier oils are gentler with a mild smell and don’t evaporate. Just like their name, their function is to carry diluted essential oils onto the skin for topical application and better absorption.
How to use carrier oils
Before purchasing carrier oils, it is important to note their authenticity and quality, high-quality carrier oils will perform better and can deliver fast results. One should also keep in mind to do a patch test before using natural products and observe the reaction on the skin. While carrier oils can be directly applied on the skin by blending it with other oils to create a concoction, on the other hand, to enjoy the benefits of a relaxing therapeutic essential oil blend, dilution is crucial for safe use. Common dilution ratios start from 1 drop of essential oil with 1 teaspoon of carrier oil and may change as per requirements. Using this technique one can create their massage oil recipes and get the best of both essential oil and carrier oil benefits.
Let’s learn about the Best Carrier Oils for Essential Oils:
There are many popular carrier oils used for diluting essential oils, and each of them offers unique benefits. From moisturizing properties, and skin-nourishing qualities, to therapeutic effects, carrier oils allow for safe application and effective absorption of the essential oils into the skin.
- Jojoba Oil: Jojoba oil is a lot like the skin’s natural sebum, it is loaded with properties to provide deep moisture without clogging pores. It is suitable for all skin types and absorbs rapidly without leaving an oily finish, making it perfect for blending into facial oils.
- Sweet Almond Oil: Is packed with vitamins and antioxidants, nourishing and softening the skin to enhance a glowing complexion. It’s suitable for most skin types and features a gentle, slightly sweet scent.
- Olive oil: A versatile ingredient in skincare, the highly prized olive oil is loaded with barrier-enhancing, moisturizing, anti-inflammatory properties. Rich in Vit E, and antioxidants, it can aid in counteracting free radicals that harm skin cells and hasten skin aging. Whether applied alone or used in skincare blends, it can nourish, shield, and revitalize the skin, making it look healthy and radiant.
- Argan oil: Often referred to as “liquid gold,” this valuable oil is celebrated for its powerful hydration, antioxidants, non-comedogenic nature, and anti-inflammatory attributes. With a rich concentration of Vitamin E, it enhances skin elasticity and maintains long-lasting moisture. Its lightweight consistency allows it to effortlessly absorb into the skin without any greasy residue.
- Rosehip oil: This one is a powerhouse ingredient with numerous skin benefits. Its high level of linoleic acid helps in deep nourishment and keeps the skin hydrated, rebalancing moisture levels and improving elasticity. With its abundant vitamin A (retinol) content, it can stimulate cell renewal, diminishing scars and wrinkles, and improve the texture of skin. The antioxidant-rich composition protects the skin from damage, neutralizes free radicals, and brightens the complexion
- Grapeseed Oil: Packed with omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins, antioxidants, the grapeseed oil is lightweight and can be easily absorbed into the skin, suitable for oily and acne-prone skin. Due to its properties and gentle nature, it plays an important role in skincare formulations.
Carrier Oils for Different Skin Types:
Did you know that selecting the right carrier oil can do wonders for your skin? From moisturizing dry skin to controlling oily skin, carrier oils can work wonders for your skin type. So, if you want to maximize the benefits of using carrier oils, it’s essential to pick the perfect one that suits your skin type.
- Dry Skin: For dry skin, opt for nourishing carrier oils like sweet almond oil, avocado oil. These oils are rich in fatty acids and provide deep hydration to combat dryness and flakiness.
- Oily Skin: For people with oily skin, it’s best for you to choose lighter carrier oils such as jojoba oil, grapeseed oil, or argan oil. They are less likely to clog pores and can help balance the skin’s natural oil production without adding excess grease.
- Sensitive Skin: Consider using gentle carrier oils like apricot kernel oil, rosehip oil, or calendula oil. These oils are known for their soothing and calming properties, can help alleviate redness and irritation without causing further sensitivity.
- Combination Skin: For combination skin people, you can benefit from using a combination of lighter and heavier carrier oils. Consider using a blend of jojoba oil and rosehip oil to balance the skin’s varying needs. Jojoba oil can help regulate oil production in the T-zone, while rosehip oil can provide the necessary hydration for drier areas. Alternatively, you can also try using a lightweight oil like grapeseed oil for the face and then spot treat drier areas with a richer oil such as avocado oil.
For years carrier oils have been playing an important role in aromatherapy, ensuring safe and effective use of essential oils. Understanding their properties and benefits, one can use the power combination of both carrier oils and essential oils to promote good health, wellness, and enhance skincare!
