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WHAT ARE CARRIER OILS?
Carrier oils are also referred to as base or vegetable oils. We use them in aromatherapy to dilute essential oils to a safe concentration before we apply them to the skin. Carrier oils allow essential oils to penetrate the skin and be absorbed into our bodies.
Carrier oils are rich in nutrients, vitamins and essential fatty acids. Used appropriately they are nourishing to the skin and help keep it healthy. Carrier oils should be cold pressed – if excessive heat is used when the oil is extracted from the plant, important nutrients can be destroyed. Many cooking oils are not cold pressed. Unlike essential oils, carrier oils can go rancid. Store them in a cool, dark, dry place.
Mineral oils are petroleum based and we do not use them in aromatherapy. They do not penetrate the skin and prevent the absorption of essential oils and other nutrients. Isn’t it interesting that for many years mothers have been sold mineral oil to apply to their babies!
Sweet Almond Oil is a good all-purpose carrier oil and is often used for body massage. It is nourishes and protects the skin and is gentle on babies. It is often recommended for cradle cap.
Apricot Kernel Oil is nourishing with a light, fine texture. It is suitable for all skin types including sensitive. I prefer it for baby massage and it is ideal in facial massage blends.
Avocado Oil is a dark green oil rich in many nutrients including Vitamins A & D. It is good for dry, mature, damaged skin. Because it is so rich I usually combine it with other carrier oils.
Evening Primrose Oil is also usually blended with other carrier oils. It is rich in gamma linolenic acid which makes it useful for treating skin conditions such as eczema.
Jojoba Oil is actually a liquid wax. It has a light, silky texture which absorbs easily and is suitable for all skin types including oily. It is ideal for the face, body, hair and scalp. It has a very long shelf life. Treat yourself to this oil – it is worth it!
Macadamia Oil is highly nourishing. It softens, hydrates and protects the skin. It is suitable for all skin types, especially dry, mature. I like to use it as a body oil because it absorbs readily.
Rosehip Oil is rich in nutrients and essential fatty acids. It is excellent for healing, repairing and treating skin conditions. It is often recommended as a night-time facial oil to help reduce the signs of premature ageing, and for scarring.
Wheatgerm Oil is very rich in Vitamin E. It is often found in blends for stretch-marks, and is a natural anti-oxidant. It has a strong aroma, and is usually blended with other carrier oils.
To nourish your skin & keep it healthy check out our great range of Carrier Oils available online
