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Carrier oils are natural vegetable oils derived from the fatty parts of plants, such as seeds or nuts. These oils are used to dilute essential oils, making them safe for topical use by reducing the risk of skin irritation. Carriers such as Jojoba Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, and Coconut Oil, also offer their own benefits. They can be used on their own to moisturize skin, treat hair, and promote overall health and wellness. Rich in fatty acids and vitamins, oils like Avocado Oil help repair the skin's barrier.

Learn more about essential oil carriers and how to use them with our free learning guide.

Carrier oils are extracted from the fatty parts of plants, like seeds and nuts, using methods such as cold pressing or processing. They are used to dilute essential oils, making them safer for topical application by reducing the risk of irritation. Carriers, such as oils, and butters, can also be used on their own as skin moisturizers, hair conditioners, or for therapeutic purposes. Essential oils, on the other hand, are distilled from the aromatic parts of plants, including flowers, leaves, and bark. Other types of carriers include infused oils, mined salts, and raw resins like Frankincense.

Essential oils are highly concentrated and can cause skin irritation if applied directly. Essential oil carriers dilute the potency of essential oils, allowing for safe topical use and helping the oils spread more easily across the skin.

Learn about safe essential oil dilution here.

Yes, carrier oils can be used independently as skin moisturizers, hair conditioners, or massage oils. For instance, Argan Oil is great for nourishing hair, while Rosehip Oil is known for its skin-rejuvenating properties.

For topical use, the general guideline is to mix 1-2% essential oils with a carrier oil, which translates to about 6-12 drops of essential oil per 1 ounce (30ml) of carrier oil.

Yes, blending different carrier oils allows you to combine their unique benefits. For example, Trauma Oil, one of our most popular carriers, is made by individually infusing St. John’s Wort, Calendula, and Arnica in Olive Oil, and then blending them together for soothing, restorative properties. You can also mix oils like Jojoba Oil and Avocado Oil to create a hydrating blend that balances oily skin without clogging pores.

Yes, carrier oils are excellent for facial care! Oils like Baobab Seed Oil, Pomegranate Seed Oil, and Tamanu Oil are lightweight, absorb quickly, and are perfect for moisturizing and nourishing the face without clogging pores. However, avoid applying oils near your eyes, mouth, or broken skin. If oil gets in your eyes, rinse thoroughly with water. Always perform a patch test to ensure your skin reacts well to the oil before applying it to your face.

Some carrier oils are comedogenic, meaning they can clog pores and contribute to acne. Coconut Oil is more comedogenic, making it less suitable for acne-prone skin. In contrast, oils like Argan Oil, Tamanu Oil, and Hemp Seed Oil are non-comedogenic, meaning they are less likely to clog pores and are better choices for those with sensitive or oily skin.

To learn more about skincare for acne-prone skin, visit our blog on Acne-Prone, Combination, & Oily Skin Care.

Not all carrier oils are suitable for sensitive skin. If you have sensitive skin, it's best to choose mild, hypoallergenic oils. Argan Oil is rich in vitamin E and helps smooth and strengthen skin without clogging pores. Cranberry Seed Oil cools irritation with a balanced ratio of Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids. Rosehip Seed Oil offers anti-aging benefits and restores complexion.

For more skincare tips, check out our blog on Skin Care for Normal, Anti-Aging, and Sensitive Skin.

For dry skin, rich carrier oils like Hemp Seed Oil, Pomegranate Seed Oil, and Olive Oil are excellent choices. These oils help soothe flaky, irritated skin and lock in hydration. Hemp Seed Oil is known for its omega-3 and omega-6 content, while Pomegranate Seed Oil is packed with antioxidants, making both great for nourishing dry skin.

Common carrier oils for hair care include Coconut Oil for hydration, Argan Oil for shine and strength, and Jojoba Oil to balance the scalp's natural oils. Additionally, Sweet Almond Oil helps reduce frizz, while Cranberry Seed Oil supports scalp health. Each oil offers unique benefits for nourishing hair and promoting a healthy scalp.

For more detailed insights on which carriers suit your hair type, check out our blog post on the Best Carrier Oils for Hair Care.

Popular carrier oils for massage include Coconut Oil, Baobab Seed Oil, and Jojoba Oil. These oils spread easily, deeply moisturize the skin, and leave no greasy residue. For more inspiration, explore our collection of free DIY Massage Oil Recipes, which features blends perfect for relaxation and therapeutic massage.

Many carrier oils are safe during pregnancy, but it's always important to consult a healthcare professional before use. Carrier oils like Coconut Oil, Baobab Seed Oil, St. John’s Wort Infused Olive Oil, and Trauma Oil can help nourish the skin, support elasticity to prevent stretch marks, and soothe sore muscles and skin irritation. 

For more detailed information, check out our blog on Essential Oils and Pregnancy.

While rare, some people may have allergies to certain carrier oils, especially those derived from nuts, like Sweet Almond Oil. It's important to perform a patch test before using a new oil to ensure there's no skin reaction.

Jojoba Oil is actually a liquid wax. Unlike most carrier oils, which are triglycerides, Jojoba is made of liquid wax esters, closely resembling the skin's natural sebum. This makes it highly stable and long-lasting, perfect for moisturizing and balancing the skin. 

Jojoba is the #1 carrier oil choice for the founders of Aromatics International. Want to know why? Check out our blog: Our founders agree—jojoba is their #1 favorite carrier!

Carrier oils should be stored in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. This helps prevent them from going rancid. Use dark glass bottles (we love amber-colored bottles and jars), especially for oils that are sensitive to light, to help preserve their shelf life.

The shelf life of carrier oils varies depending on the type. Most oils last between 6 months to 2 years. Carriers with higher unsaturated fat content, like Hemp Seed Oil, break down faster, while more stable oils, such as Coconut Oil and Jojoba Oil, can last much longer. Proper storage in cool, dark places helps to extend the shelf life of these oils.