Welcome back to our Aromatherapy 101 series! In Part 1, we explored the crucial role carrier oils play in safely delivering essential oils to the skin, along with their own impressive therapeutic benefits.

In this installment, we’ll dive into six of the most popular and versatile carrier oils used in natural skincare and aromatherapy, helping you choose the perfect base for your blends.

💡 TIP: When choosing carrier oils, always opt for cold-pressed, unrefined, and organic options whenever possible. These retain the highest levels of beneficial nutrients and ensure purity.

Popular Carrier Oils & Their Skin Benefits

1. Jojoba Oil (Simmondsia chinensis)

• Type: Technically a liquid wax, but used like an oil.

• Absorption: Medium to fast

• Aroma: Very light, almost odorless with a subtle nutty scent

Benefits:

• Balances oily skin and regulates sebum production

• Provides long-lasting moisture without greasiness

• Non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores)

• Exceptionally long shelf life due to its wax structure

Best Uses:

Facial serums, acne-prone skin treatments, hair oils, or any blend where you want the essential oil aroma to shine.

Learn more about our Jojoba Oil here

2. Sweet Almond Oil (Prunus dulcis)

• Type: Lightweight and emollient

• Absorption: Medium

• Aroma: Light, sweet, nutty

Benefits:

• Rich in Vitamins A, E, D, and essential fatty acids

• Soothes dry, irritated, or sensitive skin

• Leaves skin soft and smooth

• Gentle enough for baby massage

Best Uses:

Full-body massage oils, general moisturizers, bath oils, and sensitive skin blends.

⚠️ Avoid if you have nut allergies.

Learn more about our Sweet Almond Oil here

3. Fractionated Coconut Oil (Cocos nucifera)

• Type: Clear, liquid coconut oil that stays fluid at room temperature

• Absorption: Fast

• Aroma: Odorless

Benefits:

• Lightweight, non-greasy, and absorbs quickly

• Won’t stain clothing or sheets

• Long shelf life and highly stable

• Contains mild antimicrobial properties (caprylic and capric acids)

Best Uses:

Perfect for rollerball blends, bath oils, and any application requiring a non-greasy, fragrance-free base.

Learn more about our Fractionated Coconut Oil here

4. Avocado Oil (Persea americana)

• Type: Thick, rich, and nourishing

• Absorption: Slow

• Aroma: Slightly nutty with a green tint

Benefits:

• Deeply moisturizing and emollient

• Rich in Vitamins A, D, E, and potassium

• Excellent for dry, mature, or damaged skin

• Helps protect against environmental stress

Best Uses:

Anti-aging serums, deeply moisturizing body oils, and blends for very dry or mature skin. Use in smaller amounts when blending with lighter oils.

Learn more about our Avocado Oil here

5. Grapeseed Oil (Vitis vinifera)

• Type: Lightweight and fast-absorbing

• Absorption: Fast

• Aroma: Very light, almost odorless

Benefits:

• Great for oily and acne-prone skin

• Astringent properties help tone and tighten skin

• Rich in antioxidants like Vitamin E and proanthocyanidins

Best Uses:

Facial oils, light body oils, and massage blends that need quick absorption.

Learn more about our Grapeseed Oil here

6. Rosehip Seed Oil (Rosa canina / rubiginosa)

• Type: Dry, delicate oil

• Absorption: Fast

• Aroma: Light, earthy, slightly herbaceous

Benefits:

• Famous for skin-regenerating and anti-aging properties

• High in natural Vitamin A (retinoic acid)

• Helps reduce appearance of scars, stretch marks, and fine lines

• Brightens skin tone and improves texture

Best Uses:

Scar treatment blends, facial serums, and anti-aging formulas. Best used mixed with other oils due to its delicacy and higher cost.

How to Choose the Right Carrier Oil

When choosing a carrier oil, consider the following:

• Your skin type: oily, dry, acne-prone, or sensitive

• The texture and absorption rate you prefer

• Compatibility with your chosen essential oils

• The end use: facial care, body massage, roller blends, or DIY skincare

Each oil offers unique properties, so feel free to mix and match based on your goals!

Dilution Ratios: A Quick Safety Guide

Always dilute essential oils properly before applying to the skin. Here's a general guideline for adults:

Always do a patch test before widespread use to ensure no irritation occurs.

What’s Next in the Series?

In Part 3, we’ll venture into the aromatic heart of aromatherapy — essential oils! You’ll learn about:

• How essential oils are extracted

• Their unique therapeutic benefits

• How to safely blend and apply them

Stay tuned and elevate your aromatherapy practice!