Women have used vegetable oils for skincare for centuries. Vegetable oils, also known as base oils or carrier oils, can be used as a moisturiser, as well as in massage and aromatherapy. Despite their time-proven effect, some women are reluctant to apply carrier oils because of some myths they think are facts.
Natural oils are widely used in cosmetics and aromatherapy. They have been used throughout history around the globe due to their medicinal and cosmetic properties. There are two main types of oils: carrier oils and essential oils.
Essential oils are concentrated liquids containing volatile aroma compounds from plants. They are extracted by distillation, expression, solvent extraction, cold pressing, and some other methods. Most essential oils have an antiseptic effect, besides, each oil has its own range of useful properties.
As most essential oils can irritate the skin or even cause chemical burns in high concentrations, they are diluted with vegetable oils. That’s why vegetable oils are also referred to as carrier oils: they are used to carry the essential oil onto the skin. Carrier oils are rich in fatty acids, they are primarily valued for their moisturising and emollient properties.
Although carrier oils are among the most effective skincare products, there are myths that prevent some people from applying them. Let us take a closer look at popular myths about skincare oils.
Myth No. 1. Carrier oils are unsuitable for oily skin because they make it even more oily. Oily skin needs water and nutrients just like any other skin type. Moreover, oily skin easily becomes dehydrated when people frequently use alcohol-based lotions to prevent oily shine. As a result, the skin starts to produce even more sebum, which leads to clogged pores and inflammation. Carrier oils can help to get out of this vicious circle by providing the skin with the moisture and nutrients it needs. You just need to apply a light base oil that doesn’t have comedogenic (pore-clogging) properties.
Myth No. 2. Carrier oils clog pores and cause acne and comedones. This is only partially true. Heavy carrier oils do tend to clog pores, especially when applied to oily, problem or combination skin. However, light oils, such as grapeseed oil, are harmless. If you choose the oil that’s right for your skin type, you won’t have any problems with clogged pores or comedones.
Myth No. 3. Carrier oils are unsuitable for sensitive skin. While essential oils may cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in high concentrations, carrier oils are much safer. Some base oils even act as counterirritants. They soothe the skin and help to treat some skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
As we’ve already mentioned above, it is important to choose the right carrier oil or oils for your skin. Here are lists of base and essential oils which are most suited for each skin type.
Normal skin. Apricot kernel oil, coconut oil, almond oil, sesame oil, macadamia oil, grapeseed oil, wheat germ oil. Essential oils: lavender oil, geranium oil, jasmine oil, peppermint oil, frankincense oil.
Oily and combination skin. Grapeseed oil, coconut oil, watermelon seed oil, jojoba oil, black cumin seed oil. Black cumin seed oil is widely regarded as one of the best carrier oils for oily skin. Essential oils: chamomile oil, lavender oil, peppermint oil, lemon oil, bergamot oil, rosemary oil, rosewood oil.
Dry skin. Avocado oil, macadamia oil, olive oil, coconut oil, peach kernel oil, sea buckthorn oil, cocoa butter, shea butter. Essential oils: chamomile oil, jasmine oil, rosewood oil, geranium oil.
Sensitive skin. Jojoba oil, evening primrose oil, borage seed oil, peach kernel oil, avocado oil. Essential oils: chamomile oil, rosewood oil, mandarin oil.
Carrier oils excellently moisturise, nourish and restore the skin. You can apply them as is, add to DIY face masks, make oil blends and compresses. Pure carrier oils are most effective when applied to clean, slightly damp skin. Don’t try to rub the oil into your skin. Just tap your face lightly with your fingertips, wait until the oil absorbs, and pat your skin dry with a cotton pad. Don’t apply too much oil, several drops will be enough. You can mix carrier oil with a couple of drops of essential oil of your choice. Such a blend will improve complexion, prevent inflammation, and produce a refreshing effect.
You can find a great selection of carrier and essential oils, massage oils, hair oils and oil blends in our online shop Organic Store. We offer high-quality oils by brands such as Cococare, Aromatika, Flora Secret, Pharma Bio Laboratory, Green Pharmacy, Chandi, Triuga, Home Doctor, Dr. Sante, Elfa Pharm, Aasha Herbals, Ekolux, Parachute, and more.
Cosmetic Oils in Our Store
Cococare 100% Cocoa Butter Stick, 28 g |
Flora Secret Grape Seed Oil, 60 ml |
Flora Secret Almond Oil, 60 ml |
Triuga Black Cumin Oil, 75 ml |
Triuga Coconut Oil, 100 ml |
Triuga Shea Butter, 100 ml |