Carrier Oils
A carrier oil is what we will be blending the essential oils into. There are various reasons for using a carrier oil:
1. Many essential oils should never be applied ‘neat’ (straight) to the skin. A carrier oils makes topical application possible.
2. Essential oils evaporate very quickly. A carrier oil will slow down evaporation allowing them to be absorbed into the skin (rather than evaporated into the air) for maximum benefit.
3. Cost effectiveness – a little goes a long way with essential oils and they can be fairly expensive. This helps you to get the maximum benefit out of the smallest amount. Which helps with the cost, but also long term sustainability of the essential oil industry.
How to choose a carrier oil:
Consider the comedogenic rating:
This rating indicates the ability for the oil to clog your pores. It starts at 0 and goes through 5. The higher the number the higher chances you have of the oil clogging your pores. So, if you have acne prone skin, try to choose a carrier oil with a rating of 3 or less.
Consider the quality: Whenever possible choose organic, unrefined, cold pressed oil. This ensures you get a quality oil that has not been altered due to the processing.
Coconut Oil
Comedogenic rating: 2-4
The most popular carrier oils. It is derived from the fruit of the coconut tree, is a super-oil full of naturally present antioxidants and is an excellent antifungal, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial.
It is exceptional for nourishing the hair, nails and skin. Coconut oil has an exceptionally long shelf life.
You can purchase solid coconut oil (solid at room temperature but will melt easily at approximately 24C. You could also choose fractionated coconut oil with is liquid at room temperature (and also is almost odourless).
The choice is yours – I usually have both.
Olive Oil
Comedogenic rating : 2
Extracted from the fruit of the olive tree, it is a light oil with a fruity aroma that is not overpowering so it works well for blending most essential oils.
It is non-greasy so it works well with you almost any skin or hair type as it does not clog skin pores or leave hair locks looking greasy. It is excellent for dandruff, frizzy hair and dry skin.
Be sure to buy unrefined extra virgin olive oil. (you likely have some in your cooking cupboard right now!)
Grapeseed Oil
Comedogenic rating : 2
This oil is extracted from the seeds of grapes. Grape seeds are loaded with antioxidants and other beneficial nutrients, making grapeseed oil high in proteins, minerals, vitamin E and linoleic acid (a natural anti-inflammatory).
Grapeseed oil does not make skin greasy, has antiseptic properties and is a mild astringent, making it a good carrier oil for acne-prone skin or oily skin.
Grapeseed oil moisturizes and nourishes hair without making it greasy and works well to combat dandruff.
Sweet Almond Oil
Comedogenic rating : 2
This oil is extracted from the dried fruit of the almond tree. It's high vitamin E content makes it an optimal choice for nourishing the skin, regenerating new skin cells and keeping in moisture, making it a great choice for those who have dry skin.
It's natural antioxidant properties help protect from the damaging effects of the sun, and it's high concentrations of both oleic and linoleic acids help to relieve inflammation and soothe irritated skin.
Being non-greasy and hypoallergenic, it makes an excellent massage oil (especially for infants) and its rich Vitamin E content can actually help repair damage in the collagen layer of the skin, making facial skin smooth and supple and reducing wrinkles.
Sweet almond oil is a great choice for nourishing the skin, hair and nails.
Jojoba Oil
Comedogenic rating: 2
More expensive and harder to find: The oil is extracted from the seeds of the jojoba tree and has a light nutty aroma.
Jojoba oil is a natural anti-fungal and works well when combined with essential oils that also have anti-fungal properties and are used for topical fungal infections.
It is the oil that most closely resembles human sebum so it makes an excellent moisturizer for using on areas like the face and neck and does not look oily on the skin.
Has a very long shelf life and absorbs amazingly into the skin. It is an amazing makeup remover and incredible after sun oil.
Rosehip Oil
Comedogenic rating : 1
Extracted from the seeds of the musk rose or Rosa moschata. Rosehip (seed) oil contains a high concentration of linoleic and alpha-linolenic acid and is extremely high in vitamins A and E making it a highly sought after carrier oil for skin care.
Rosehip oil is amazing for stretch marks and anti-aging. The fatty acids and high concentrations of vitamins in rosehip oil help to restore elasticity to the skin and improve collagen production making it a better, safer choice than chemical-filled face creams and even Botox.
Containers for Storing your Recipes
Glass containers are most recommended for storing any item with an essential oil in it. Depending on what you want to make, you will require some storage containers. See below for some recommendations: