How to choose a carrier oils
Be conscientious when choosing a carrier oil that some have a scent, which may be problematic if you plan to use them in aromatherapy treatments. Consider these factors before choosing a complementary carrier oil:
- Some vegetable oil have a distinct smell, including sweet almond oil, olive oil, and coconut oil.
- Absorption. Base oil including grapeseed, canola, and rosehip are absorbed by the skin much faster than other oils, including avocado and castor.
- Skin sensitivity. Some individuals with sensitive skin may react to some varieties of carrier oil. Coconut, argan and avocado are typically considered safe for all skin types.
- Oil rancidity. Although essential oils do not go off, carrier oils do. Choose a base oil with long shelf-life like coconut, avocado, or pomegranate, rather than oils like rosehip or grapeseed, if you don’t plan to use it immediately.
CARRIER OIL BENEFITS
Different vegetable oils have various benefits. Consider their characteristics before choosing a carrier oil to complement your treatment:
- Fractionated Coconut oil is incredibly moisturising , thanks to its high fatty acid and polyphenol content, making it great for massage treatments.
- Rosehip oil has been proven to help improve skin tone and can reduce the appearance of imperfections, making it an excellent choice for beauty-boosting treatments.
- Avocado oil may in its simple form, help to lend a youthful glow to the skin. However, be advised that it does have a nutty scent.
- Sweet almond oil helps smooth and improve the appearance of skin tone. Although scented, many people like the scent, so incorporate almond oil into aromatherapy and massage treatments.
Why use a carrier oil?
Essential oils are so potent and concentrated that they can be incredibly irritating to the skin – they can even cause chemical burns. Always dilute essential oils with a vegetable oil before applying them to the skin. Even when using them in a diffuser, or you may experience headaches and spikes in heart rate.
Carrier oil uses
Use a base oils with your favourite essential oils, in these ways:
- Diffuse: for no more than 30 minutes, otherwise you may experience respiratory tract irritation
- Inhale: pour your aromatherapy formula onto a cotton pad or cloth and inhale deeply for a soothing, on-the-go treatment
- Massage: into areas of the body experiencing stiffness or tension
- Dilute: into cleansers to enjoy their benefits while showering.
