How To Choose Carrier Oils
Last updated on March 10, 2025 by Jess Healey
Originally published on January 25, 2017
[cs_content][cs_section parallax=”false” separator_top_type=”none” separator_top_height=”50px” separator_top_inset=”0px” separator_top_angle_point=”50″ separator_bottom_type=”none” separator_bottom_height=”50px” separator_bottom_inset=”0px” separator_bottom_angle_point=”50″ _label=”Intro” style=”margin: 0px;padding: 20px 0px 0px;”][cs_row inner_container=”false” marginless_columns=”false” style=”margin: 0px auto;padding: 0px;”][cs_column fade=”false” fade_animation=”in” fade_animation_offset=”45px” fade_duration=”750″ type=”1/2″ style=”padding: 0px;”][cs_text][dropcap]L[/dropcap]et’s talk carrier oils and why they are a necessity in a #LifeFromScratch skin and body care routine, as well as in homemade skin and body care items. Before I began my journey in earnest, I used pretty much any thing on my face, skin, and body. It was all just about that awesomely scented lotion, scrub, or other product and I rarely even took a glance at the ingredient label in my blissful ignorance. I had a really hard time when I was younger with acne-prone skin and never thought twice about using harsh abrasive cleaners, which in turn dried my skin out, which made me reach for the chemical-laden moisturizers.[/cs_text][/cs_column][cs_column fade=”false” fade_animation=”in” fade_animation_offset=”45px” fade_duration=”750″ type=”1/2″ style=”padding: 0px;”][x_gap size=”20px”][x_image type=”none” src=”https://pronounceskincare.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Carrier-Oils-Pronounce-Skincare-DIY-Blog-Shop.jpg” alt=”” link=”false” href=”#” title=”” target=”” info=”none” info_place=”top” info_trigger=”hover” info_content=””][/cs_column][/cs_row][cs_row inner_container=”false” marginless_columns=”false” _label=”New Item 2″ style=”margin: 0px auto;padding: 0px;”][cs_column fade=”false” fade_animation=”in” fade_animation_offset=”45px” fade_duration=”750″ type=”1/1″ style=”padding: 0px;”][cs_text]It was like being on a toxic carousel that never stopped!
When I started getting serious a couple years ago about changing how my family was living and started experimenting with making my own body care items, one of the first things I did was to stop using commercial facial cleansers and moisturizers and started the oil cleansing method instead. That was when I began to learn about carrier oils, what they were, what role they played within products, and how they could be used to benefit my skin.[/cs_text][x_custom_headline level=”h2″ looks_like=”h3″ accent=”false” style=”color: hsl(180, 100%, 25%);”]The dirty about carrier oils…[/x_custom_headline][x_gap size=”10px”][cs_text]
- Base oil derived from (mainly) nuts and seeds of different plants.
- Can be used as a moisturizer or to treat problem areas.
- Used to dilute strong essential oils to make them safe to apply to the body.
- Effectively “carry” other ingredients into the skin and stop the essential oil from evaporating to quickly.
[/cs_text][x_custom_headline level=”h2″ looks_like=”h3″ accent=”false” style=”color: hsl(180, 100%, 25%);”]The 411 on Carrier Oils[/x_custom_headline][x_gap size=”10px”][x_columnize]They are a “base” oil and are derived from (mainly) nuts and seeds of different plants. Different carrier oils offer different therapeutic properties and are suitable for different skin types and products. They can be used by themselves (or in conjunction with another oil) as a moisturizer or to treat problem areas. They can be used to dilute strong essential oils and other fragrances and products to make them safe to apply to the body. When they are used in the latter manner, they effectively “carry” the other ingredients into the skin and body and stop the essential oil from evaporating too quickly. They are also used for their therapeutic properties in homemade body care products such as deodorants, soaps, body butters, scrubs, and many other recipes.
It has taken me some time experimenting with different carrier oils to find what works best for my personal situation. Every so often I try something new, and make changes to my skin care routine, but I usually have about 4-5 different carrier oils in rotation which I use during different times of the year (with or without essential oils &/or in homemade products).[/x_columnize][x_custom_headline level=”h2″ looks_like=”h3″ accent=”false” style=”color: hsl(180, 100%, 25%);”]When choosing a carrier oil…[/x_custom_headline][cs_text]
- Purchase highest quality you can afford.
- Cold-pressed, pure, unrefined oil with no additives.
And a little FYI…
- Cold pressed = unheated = retains beneficial properties
- Unrefined = little refining =retains richness and strength
[/cs_text][x_custom_headline level=”h2″ looks_like=”h3″ accent=”false” style=”color: hsl(180, 100%, 25%);”]Choosing a Carrier Oil[/x_custom_headline][x_gap size=”10px”][x_columnize]You want to make sure you are using the highest quality you can afford. If possible you should be purchasing cold-pressed, pure, unrefined oil with no additives. Cold pressed oils have not been heated and therefore retain their innate beneficial properties. Unrefined oils have undergone little refining and (usually) retain their richness and strength. Since there are so many different base oils out there to choose from, I’ve put together a list of the top carrier oils along with some information that will educate you and assist you in how to choose carrier oils for your needs. With the information, you will then be able to choose based on the properties you will need for your particular application.
Just remember that the key to success is experimenting with your oils and ingredients until you find what works best for you, your skin, and your product.[/x_columnize][x_blockquote cite=”” type=”center”]Learn more below about carrier oils that I have personally used and carrier oils that I want to use![/x_blockquote][x_custom_headline level=”h2″ looks_like=”h3″ accent=”false” style=”color: hsl(180, 100%, 25%);”]More Common Carrier Oils[/x_custom_headline][x_gap size=”10px”][x_accordion][x_accordion_item title=”Coconut Oil” open=”true”]
The medium chain fatty acids work as an antimicrobial agent to help kill bacteria and other viruses. It is very similar to our natural sebum secretion. All of the properties of coconut oil leads to moisturized skin, fewer breakouts, and clearer complexion. For DIY recipes, keep in mind that refined coconut oil has no scent while unrefined coconut oil will have a noticeable coconut scent.
Most coconut oil solidifies at about 76 degrees, so it’s best to use another liquid carrier oil in combination with this oil to keep it in a more fluid state. Suitable for all skin types, especially acne prone. It is widely used for lip lotions and other body care products(1). This is one of my “go-to” oils that I use in my nightly oil cleansing routine, as a makeup remover, and in numerous homemade DIY body care products. For more information on coconut oil, click here.
[/x_accordion_item][x_accordion_item title=”Avocado Oil” open=”false”]
The proteins, omega 3 fatty acids, and antioxidants in this oil make it a great moisturizer. It absorbs deeply into the skin and helps increase collagen to keep your skin supple (2). This is a thick oil and works great when combined with other oils. It is a fantastic addition to soaps, creams, and lotions. Dry, mature, sensitive, and problem prone skin can benefit greatly from this vitamin rich oil (3). Avocado oil is my oil of choice during the winter, used as a deep moisturizer after oil cleansing, for very dry skin (especially for my t-zone). I also love to use this in a recipe for a hydrating winter body scrub.
[/x_accordion_item][x_accordion_item title=”Emu Oil” open=”false”]This oil is a neutral lipid and is easily and deeply absorbed by the skin. It penetrates deep to replenish our skin’s natural oils. Natural source of Omega 3, 6 & 9 – fatty acids that nourish our skin from the inside out (4). It will not clog pores and can assist with joint pain and swelling. It is one of the best, and more expensive, oils out there. Emu oil has quickly become my new favorite oil and it is what I use when my skin is not dry enough to need the avocado oil before bed. Holy softness! Personally, I think this may be too expensive of an oil to use on a larger scale for DIY recipes, but as a moisturizer and for small needs, it’s fabulous.[/x_accordion_item][x_accordion_item title=”Sweet Almond Oil” open=”false”]
The amino acids and vitamins in this oil go on light and smooth and help the more solid or thick oils (such as coconut, neem, castor, and tamanu) penetrate more deeply. It absorbs easily and softens very well. The emollient properties in almond oil helps to improve skin tone and complexion (5). Great for massage. Suitable for all skin types especially dry & sensitive.
Almond oil is my second “go-to” oil which I tend to use as my morning moisturizer by applying to my face and neck along with two drops of cedarwood essential oil. I love to add a few drops to my kids baths to help moisturize their sensitive skin without leaving them greasy. Add a few drops into your liquid soap dispenser along with castile soap and essential oil(s) of choice to add a luxurious and cleansing effect. Check out Pronounce’s DIY super moisturizing hand soap here.
[/x_accordion_item][x_accordion_item title=”Argan Oil” open=”false”]
A luxurious oil that absorbs quickly. Works well as a carrier oil with essential oils as well as in homemade products. Argan oil is considered to be a rare (and expensive) oil due to the small area it grows in. Contains antioxidants and is high in vitamin e. It has a light nutty scent which should be taken into consideration when blending into products. Suitable for all skin types.
[/x_accordion_item][x_accordion_item title=”Olive Oil” open=”false”]
Probably one of the most universally known and used oils. Olive oil can be a great skincare option for those who have nut and seed allergies. Olive oil will have a strong aroma and a rich golden color. Suitable for all skin types and those with dry skin. Truthfully, this is not my first choice as a carrier oil as I find it doesn’t absorb very well. However, I have found it useful when crafting homemade body scrubs for people who have a nut allergy and also cannot use coconut oil due to allergies. It’s also great for scrubs, salves, and other skin care products. The feedback has been very positive when used in these circumstances.
[/x_accordion_item][/x_accordion][/cs_column][/cs_row][cs_row inner_container=”false” marginless_columns=”false” _label=”New Item 4″ style=”margin: 0px auto;padding: 0px;”][cs_column fade=”false” fade_animation=”in” fade_animation_offset=”45px” fade_duration=”750″ type=”1/1″ class=”cs-ta-center” style=”padding: 0px;”][x_image type=”none” src=”https://pronounceskincare.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Carrier-Oils-Pronounce-Skincare-DIY-blog-shop.jpg” alt=”” link=”false” href=”#” title=”” target=”” info=”none” info_place=”top” info_trigger=”hover” info_content=””][/cs_column][/cs_row][cs_row inner_container=”false” marginless_columns=”false” _label=”New Item 3″ style=”margin: 0px auto;padding: 0px;”][cs_column fade=”false” fade_animation=”in” fade_animation_offset=”45px” fade_duration=”750″ type=”1/1″ style=”padding: 0px;”][x_custom_headline level=”h2″ looks_like=”h3″ accent=”false” style=”color: hsl(180, 100%, 25%);”]Less Common (but awesome!) Carrier Oils[/x_custom_headline][x_gap size=”10px”][x_blockquote cite=”” type=”center”]There you have it! LOADS of information on the top carrier oils available, how they can be used, and what skin types they are best suited for. All the basics you need to know for how to choose carrier oils.[/x_blockquote][x_accordion][x_accordion_item title=”Tamanu Oil” open=”true”]
The high content of essential fatty acids make this oil very restorative. Known as a healing oil, it is suitable for all skin types; especially for acne prone and damaged skin. It has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antibiotic properties. Works well as a carrier oil with essential oils as well as in homemade products. Tamanu oil is thick and viscous, has a very rich scent, and is greenish in color (8). You will want to keep in mind the strong scent when working with this oil; choose essential oils or other ingredients that will help cover and work with the natural scent of this oil.
[/x_accordion_item][x_accordion_item title=”Neem Oil” open=”false”]
A very rich, thick, and strongly scented oil which contains Omega 3, 6 and 9. It is one of the oldest used Ayurvedic therapeutic and medicinal oils. In addition to its use in body and skin care products, neem oil can be used as a bug repellent due to insecticide properties (9). Neem oil is a very strong smelling oil, so keep that in mind when using it (and dilute it with another oil &/or butter). Some people suggest that neem oil is toxic. Research does not suggest that neem oil is toxic for topical treatments; in fact, the opposite (as shown here) is true. It’s worth mentioning here, though…we suggest caution for internal use and neem oil should not (generally and especially in excess) be used internally by pregnant women. Check with your favorite practitioner &/or doctor if you have more questions.
Neem oil tends to be a semi-solid, so it works best when mixed with another carrier oil. Not the best as an essential oil carrier oil as it does not get absorbed well into the skin, but works well in scrubs, salves, deodorants, and other skin care products. It is incredibly moisturizing and regenerative so it is great for all skin types including mature skin. Again, you will want to keep in mind the strong scent when working with this oil; choose essential oils or other ingredients that will help cover or work with the natural scent of this oil (11). Also, check out Pronounce’s DeFunkifying DIY Deodorant (or purchase it here).
[/x_accordion_item][x_accordion_item title=”Apricot Kernel Oil” open=”false”]
This nourishing oil is similar to avocado oil and it very rich in vitamin A and vitamin E (12). Apricot kernel oil penetrates the skin without leaving an oily residue. It is particularly suitable for sensitive and prematurely aged skin.
[/x_accordion_item][x_accordion_item title=”Jojoba Oil” open=”false”]
The proteins and minerals in this oil mimic collagen and is closest to our natural skin oil. Anti-inflammatory effects have been shown (13). An interesting fact about jojoba is that it is actually a liquid plant wax as opposed to an oil, and it will get cloudy and solidify as the temperature drops. Jojoba oil is great for all skin types — especially acne prone skin since jojoba actually breaks down excess sebum. This makes a great base for a face serum to protect your skin against environmental issues. Click here for more information on jojoba oil.
[/x_accordion_item][x_accordion_item title=”Castor Oil” open=”false”]
A soothing oil that has been used medicinally for thousands of years and has antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-fungal properties. It is widely used in cosmetics and skincare products. Castor oil is a strong, thick oil that works best when diluted with another carrier oil. It’s not the best as an essential oil carrier oil, but works well in scrubs, DIY Face Wash Recipes, soaps, salves, and other skincare products.
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I think Coconut carrier oil beat others due to its unique properties, It is also cheap and commonly available in everywhere
Have you ever used red palm oil? My friend has awful dandruff…it may even be psoriasis, and i mixed red palm oil and safflower oil and put it on her scalp and left it for 24 hoits
She said her scalp has NEVER been how amazing it is after that application. The dandruff and dry skin all began lifting and came out easily and shes using it every other day now and her dandruff is goinf away
I began using that mixture on my face and hair at night, and my skin has never been so soft and moisturized, and its also causing all the clogged pores to come to the surface. I may try using it doing thE OCM
I think Coconut carrier oil beat others due to its unique properties, It is also cheap and commonly available.
Excellent information about carrier oil
I’ve heard that Argan Oil can cause Rosacea (sp?) on your face. And I know firsthand that Castor oil grows your eyelashes…mix it with just a tiny bit of Coconut oil to make it less sticky and apply to eyelids every night for a month…don’t look until that month is up. You’ll be happy.
Thank you for this very informative page!
The use of vegetable oils as carrier’s oils is essential to the maintenance of fabulous skin. Also, carrier oils are used for therapeutic reasons with natural ingredients. In the facial treatment or body massage session, prevent carrier oils from entering the eyes. After a clean bath, gently massage the wound with natural oils for proper absorption. Constant use of plant-based oils will keep the skin soft and silky all year round. Let’s explore the use of carrier oils for skincare.
Thank you for this informative piece, now I kmow the carrier oil to use.
I really enjoyed this article and will take the information into account when I begin diying.
Really want to begin a journey to home made self care products to improve health.
Thanks! Keep doing what you do.
Thank you for all the information. Very Good article.
Thanks for your tips.
Question: Do you ship to Jamaica WI? If not would you?
Hi Shawna-Gae! We do ship worldwide! ?
Thank you for the information this help me out with my own body products
Comedogenic rate gor coconut is 4. I agree with you coconut oil causes acne.
I have acne prone skin with monthly break outs. Ever since I’ve used coconut oil on my face along with aloe Vera plant no breakouts and my skin is glowing
Yay! I’m glad that you are finding a system that works for you! When you run out, you can grab organic, virgin, hand-pressed, small-batch coconut oil in my online shop. I also offer organic aloe vera gel there, too. Hooray for healthier skin!
How to online shop for virgin coconut oil
For yr website?
Hi Beena! You can find coconut oil in our shop. We ship worldwide, too ?
Why is grape seed oil left out of the list here? I mean if this is suppose to be about carrier oils then it should be on this list. If you do not give a comprehensive list then how are we suppose to make a good judgement?
Feel free to do some research on your own. These are the carrier oils we use and we chose to review. 🙂
I wouldn’t use coconut oil for acne skin, Despite the fact that coconut oil has some anti inflammation qualities it still is an oil which can and will clog pores…
What is your thought on Rose Hip Oil? I read that it is one of the absolute BEST for ALL skin types. I have suffered with cystic acne most of my life and use this Oil nightly mixed with aloe Vera.
Hi Lynne! We love us some Rosehip Seed Oil here at Pronounce! If you feel like it’s working for you with the aloe vera then don’t try to fix what isn’t broken, right?! ?
Hi I just found your site and really enjoy it already. At 51, I am starting to take care of myself-lol. I use Primrose oil on my face and it is amazing!! It absorbs quickly, diminishes my wrinkles and my face is as smooth as a… I have been trying and experimenting with essential oils and carrier oils. I feel like a wise women and can’t wait to pass this information on to my granddaughter. She’s not quite ready yet as she is 2. But some day. Thanks
Yay! We are happy you are loving it! Your granddaughter will thank you when she is older ?
Apricot kernel oil seems interesting to me. Essential oils seem to be a rising trend that a lot of people take comfort in. I am intrigued that the apricot kernel oil will penetrate the skin and won’t leave behind an oily residue.
Hi,
I’m really surprised you say coconut oil is good for acne prone skin. I have always been led to believe this is one of the WORST oils for acne skins as it clogs up the pores. Anything with coconut oil and my skin breaks out so badly! I didn’t realise what it was until I inadvertently used products with coconut oil in them. Also, at the time I also saw a piece on Dr Oz talking about coconut oil and how you should avoid it if you are acne prone.
I would suggest anyone with acne or acne prone skin should avoid coconut oil just in case.
I love Coconut Oil and it has been my go-to for great skin. It has literally cleared up the skin problems I’ve been having and they were bad! I must say that IT is NOT great used for the face though. It can cause break-outs if used on the face, so I avoid this area, but the rest of my body gets it. It is great to be used all over the body, just not the face area. When my bath is done, I slather it all over my body and actually feel like a greased pig when I get out..lol 🙂 Now, I wouldn’t recommend everyone do this IN the bathtub because you could slip and fall. It is that slippery, but I’ve grown used to doing it and easy for me.
Another great use is for body aches and pain–like joint pain. There are many besides this one…just look it up. I use it for my joint pain and it works great!! You pay extra attention to the knees and elbows by rubbing it in, in a circular motion. It absorbs better that way and I put it up my spine too and it helps with my back pain even. Every layer of my back is affected and it really does help ease it.
Give it a try and see how smooth your skin feels after you take a good warm, hot bath. Feels like a baby’s bottom! 😀
Hi,
Coconut oil is a 4 on the comedogenic scale and if you are acneic or reactive on your face, it should be avoided. There are so many other oils that work well for the skin with no negative reaction.
Everyone is unique and may react differently to different products. What works for you may not work for me and vise versa. Some people with acne prone skin react positively to coconut oil. You may not.
Thank you for my comment…and I’m very sorry for this late response, but I wanted to comment now so others would see my response. Carrier oils are VERY dependent on the person, their skin, etc etc etc. To make such blanket statements is risky. Coconut oil works wonderfully for many people with and without acne. I’ve heard stories of coconut oil completely clearing acne in some of my readers and customers. You can learn more about comedogenic issues with oils in this well-written and researched post.
Great article! I am making a sugar scrub with coconut oil (76 degree), but of course, it doesn’t give me the fluidity I want in the scrub. I have grapeseed, avocado, hemp, jojoba, apricot kernel….oh and more I just can’t remember them all, but which would you recommend between grapeseed, apricot kernel or avocado? This is a body scrub not intended for facial use, I would love to hear what your recommendation would be. Thanks!
I personally love apricot kernel oil for scrubs. Or sweet almond oil!
My favorite carrier oil is organic cold pressed rose hip seed oil. I use it with frankincense essential oil.
Neem and emu oil are my favorites for my skin. Tamanu as well.
Im just starting to make my own products, to attempt to heal myself. I’m using at this time shea butter, coconut oil, jojoba, and cocoa butter along with essential oils…I still have not found a good safe recipe for hair conditioner, fine hair that’s very very breakable..any suggestions?
Hi Marianne! We have a great recipe for a DIY conditioner. We have heard from people with all different hair types who love it ?
Is sunflower oil okay? I’m planning to make a body oil combining sunflower oil and sweet almond along with some essential oils.
Hi there! Yes, sunflower oil is very high in vitamin E and super nourishing. Combined with your sweet almond oil you’ll have a powerful moisturizer! Happy DIYing. 🙂
Hi there! Great article! Has anyone tried hemp seed oil? Does it have a really strong scent? Trying to find one with a comedogenic rating of “0” due to acne prone skin (all over, not just face). Thanks!
Hi Jenna! Yes, I have used hemp seed oil…it’s a lovely carrier! It does have a subtle scent to it (more than say sweet almond or avocado), but with the use of some EOs you will likely not notice.
Nice article! We are starting to increase our use of essential oils and hydrosols. We like the DIY options and definitely learned from your article! Thanks for posting!
thank you for this post. it is interesting that the my most favorite oils are on your ‘want to use’ list. i’ve tired most of the oils you mentioned and ended up with the following: 1. jojoba oil is the best oil I’ve ever tried (i prefer it over Almond and always substitute if Almond is required). i use it plain for daily moisturizing and as carrier, although my skin is oily it gets absorbed within 10 minutes and my skin is perfect all day without glossiness or sticky feeling. 2. Castor oil is an extremely healing oil, i use it for castor oil packs and hair masks (+ neem and 3.olive oils). Although coconut has been advertised and promoted a lot lately especially for hair but especially for me nothing beats the silky smooth hair after castor+olive oil mask
This has been the most helpful site on diy body care… I love the honesty about the pros and cons of the different ones. I’m just getting into diy shampoos because my hair needs something different and I love essential oils, so I’m so glad I have a reference for testing different things out! Loved the article!
Thank you so much for sharing this information. I loved reading all the comments and suggestions. I, like most of these women, have decided to ditch the chemicals that we have been bombarded with and go for the natural remedies. My cupboard is slowly being stocked with healing herbs, flowers, powders, local honey and now I’m working on oils. This was a great place to start. Thank you again! I’ll be back.
Grape seed extract oil can I use this as a carrier
Hi Denna! Grape seed oil can be used in skincare products as a carrier oil, as it is very light and virtually colorless & scentless. That said, it is a pretty drying oil, so if you have dry skin this would not be a great carrier oil for you. It is good for things like a roll-on perfume, though! Hope this helps. 🙂
What are your thoughts on Safflower oil? Is it ok to use?
Hi Melissa. Although we wouldn’t recommend safflower for use in cooking, it is actually okay to use for skin. It is not my first choice, but it will definitely work and give you some excellent moisturizing qualities as a light oil.
I buy all my carrier oils from Amazon because I like to take full advantage of my Prime membership. What are some trustworthy brands? I like NOW and Essential Depot, but they don’t always offer what I want in the size I want it.
Thanks!!!!!!
Hi Lauren. Many of the Scratch Mommy team members do like NOW brand, as well! We also absolutely love and respect the quality and mission of Mountain Rose Herbs, but that is not through Amazon. I can’t really offer any other brand names through Amazon, as most of use use NOW &/or Mountain Rose Herbs.
I love NOW brand…I buy all of my NOW oils at my local GNC!!! Great article..thanks so much for all the helpful information!!
I like to use grapeseed oil as well for my carrier oils. I was told several years ago that it was an ideal oil to make an infusion with for certaij flowers because nut based oild can go rancid in a shorter time frame. By the way….. just made your deodorant bar with D.E. and so far LOVE it and no skin breakouts so far and it passed my bellydance class workout test! Thank you!!!
Sylvie, thanks so much for the grapeseed oil suggestion. I will definitely add this to my personal list at home. And so glad to hear how much you love the deodorant bar…that’s a great workout for it to have to pass!
Your article was very helpful. Thank you. I’m new with essential and carrier oils and I’m trying to make an oil combo for my young adult acne prone daughter. Is it best to combine two carrier oils to get multi benefit? Which to start with?
Hi Theresa. Great question. I always like to remember that everyone’s skin is different, so what works for one may not be the right solution for another. But, I have had great luck with emu oil and sweet almond oil for my acne-prone skin (I tend to get it along my jawline). Almond oil is light, non-clogging and penetrates deeply. Emu oil, combined with frankincense essential oil is what cleared up my jawline acne and I have not had any come back. As with anything, it took some experimenting for me to figure out what worked for me. But I’d start with light, non-clogging oil or oils, and a good facial toner beforehand. Please check out my 3 Ingredient Rosemary Cedarwood Facial Toner if you are interested in a good DIY version of facial toner. I use this every night, then follow up with the emu and frank combo and it works great for me.
I am new to essential oils and look forward to learning more about them.
I was making Vitamin C serum the recipe I was following calls for glycerin with my acne prone skin glycerin seemed to clog my pores. Which carrier would be best? That also penetrates deeply.
Hi Jennifer. Thanks for your comment and question. I love sweet almond oil for almost all carrier oil purposes. It is a light, non-clogging oil that penetrates deeply and quickly. I have also fallen in love recently with emu oil. I do not have any of my prior issues with jawline acne when I use almond oil and / or emu oil (I have not personally tried glycerin on my skin, but I have had pore clogging issues with coconut oil in the past). As with anything, it will take some trial and error in finding what works best for and on your skin, but I’d recommend sweet almond or emu oil.
Thank you so much!
You are so welcome Jennifer!
Thanks for this informative article.
In the skin care solutions I prepare for my family member, I use mainly 3 carrier oils depending on the skin type:
For normal or dry skin I use sweet almond oil.
For oily and acne prone skin I use Jojoba or Aloe Vera gel.
For mature skin I use rosehip seed oil.
Keep up the great work on this website.
Celia
Hi there Celia! Thanks so much for your kind words. I love the suggestion of rosehip oil for mature skin and will definitely remember that when I am asked for a recommendation. I hope you keep returning for more info with every article we publish 🙂
Hi, i am so glad to find this website talking about each oil function. I have changed all my skincare product to oil instead of cleanser, moisture. I used jojoba oil for face cleaning, and use mix of rose dew, tamanu oil for my moisture. i have a lot of acne scar and red marks on my face. i am surprised that after i week of using tamanu oil, my face looks clean and lighting. I am not sure whether those oil are good for my acne scar, but my skin is becoming much better than before. thus, i started searching other oils and hope a mix of them would help me more. I am not sure using the mix of some oils instead of normal moisture is ok. Please help me .
Hi Tina! It sounds like you are using some incredible ingredients. Tamanu is very healing and great for scars and helping to rebuild skin. Excellent choice! You can also look into adding a bit of organic, unrefined macadamia nut oil to your mix, as it’s super healing as well.
Thanks for the useful read, I really needed this. I’m definitely going to try out the sweet almond oil.
Taylor_Jake I am so glad you found this article to be such a useful read! Sweet almond oil was my “first love” out of all the carrier oils and I use that oil in more recipes than any other oil. I highly recommend it! Enjoy 🙂
I love jojoba oil…I use it in my homemade deoderant. I have acne prone skin and I was just using coconut oil as moisturizer but I plan on making a cream with it in it. I just need to get a few more EO that I want to put in it as well.
Arielle, I am very excited to use jojoba oil…that one is next on my list to buy, use and incorporate into recipes.
My favorite is the Apricot Kernel Oil. Though I am in my mid 50’s and wanting to stave off those wrinkles I do not have dry skin. The Apricot oil soaks in nicely.
Marguerite, Thanks for letting us know how apricot kernal oil soaks in nicely for someone who does not have dry skin. It’s always helpful to have real-life understanding of how something actually really works on someone’s skin. I’d like to add apricot kernal oil to my oil collection, for sure!
Hi i have been using oils for a while but i am new at trying tovreplace them for other skin care products. Ive tried some easy diy products with coconut oil. Olive oil and castor oil. I remember my mother used to use black seed oil on herself and me for alot of medical things such as asma cough syrup skin and hair and for bone pain. Im wondering if you have any experience with it or any ideas of how we can create an faical cream out of it? And also it is a “carrier oil” right? Just wondring if you can write some info about it and show how one can experiment with it
Thank you
Hi there. Great questions!
I have not personally used black seed oil, but have read about it online and in some of my books. You can learn more over at MRH and from Pat at Heal Thyself.
It appears to be a very healing oil (it is considered a carrier oil) in many ways. You’ll see me play with it in some recipes later this year…I have to know more! My guess is that you would not want to use this oil as the exclusive carrier oil in a recipe (for one it is expensive, and second I think it’s pretty potent).
Make sure you are signed up for our newsletter so you’ll be in the know when we post new DIY recipes. Thanks for stopping by and drumming up a great little convo re: an oil I must try out!
What a great article! Thank you… I just started making my own care products and I’ve only used olive and coconut. I look forward to trying more.
Hi Yanic! I remember when I started making my own skin and body care products I used those same two oils. It has been such a fun learning experience to try new oils and add them to my arsenal. After coconut oil, sweet almond oil is definitely my favorite and can be used in SO many products, I would highly recommend that as your next carrier oil. Have fun!