Carrier oils are usually overlooked because they don’t contain the therapeutic constituents of other essential oils, but they can play an indispensable companion of topically applied oils. Let’s take a closer look at these carriers and why they deserve a place on the shelf of anyone who uses and loves essential oils.
Carrier oils are naturally derived from vegetarian sources and have a neutral smell. They aren’t volatile like essential oils, which makes them an excellent medium for dilution and application.
Vegetable shortening, butter, and margarine are best left in the kitchen—they’re not intended for topical use. Mineral oil and other petroleum derivatives like petroleum jelly should also not be used as carrier oils.
Essential oils are volatile, which means they evaporate rapidly and contain the natural smell and characteristics of the plant. This can make them too strong to apply undiluted. Carrier oils do not evaporate or have a strong aroma, making them the perfect pair for diluting especially strong essential oils—reducing the concentration of the essential oil without altering its therapeutic qualities. When you dilute an essential oil with a carrier oil, you can also control its concentration before applying.
Like other substances that are high in fat, carrier oils have a limited shelf life, meaning that eventually they can go bad. Depending on the type, oils with a short shelf life should typically be used within six months, while oils with a longer shelf life may stay good for up to a year. It’s important to store oils in their original air-tight containers in a cool, dark place, such as the pantry, to maximize shelf life.
Carrier oils can vary widely in their consistency, absorption, aroma, shelf life, and other characteristics. Carrier oils can be blended to change or combine their properties, so you can mix and match until you find the blend that’s just right for you!
**Caution: May cause a reaction to those with nut allergies.
*Caution: May cause a reaction to those with nut allergies.
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What carrier oil do you recommend for babies?
Hi Cathy, Thanks for your question. You may use any naturally derived vegetarian carrier oil of your choice. However, you may want to exercise caution with carrier oils which may pose an allergy risk such as sweet almond oil. We also suggest using a patch test procedure to ensure the oil is properly diluted for the child. We hope this information is helpful to you! Thanks for stopping by!
What about organic flaxseed oil or organic hemp oil?
Hi Victoria, Flaxseed or hemp oil can be used as carrier oils if you choose. Thanks for stopping by!
Just wondering if it is ok to use V6 as the carrier oil for DIY face serum recipes?
Hi Joy, You may use V-6 if you would like, but we cannot guarantee results as we have not tested these recipes with V-6 instead of the recommended carrier oil. We would also recommend using a patch test prior to use on your face. We hope this information is helpful!
What about soybean oil?
Hi Leigh! Yes, soybean oil can be used as a carrier oil if you would like. Thanks for stopping by!
Can organic castor oil be used as a carrier oil? I have cold pressed, hexane-free. It says on the bottle, soothes and softens skin. Made by Heritage Store. Thank you for your help.
Hi Jodie! Yes, castor oil can be used as a carrier oil if you choose. Thanks for stopping by!
At the moment I use coconut oil, didn't realize there were so many different oils to choose from. Thanks for the info!
The massage therapist I go to uses Cold Pressed Castor Oil. Is this safe to use?
Thank you for your question, Janet. Cold pressed castor oil is appropriate for use as a carrier oil if you choose.
I am a huge fan of using Argan oil for my skin and hair - I love it. Can I use it as my carrier oil?
Hi Jodi, Argan oil has been used by many individuals as a carrier oil. You are welcome to use Argan oil if you choose. Thanks for your question!
What is the ratio of PanAway to fractionated coconut oil to mix for topical use?
Hello, please make sure to always refer to the label for usage directions which state, "Dilute 1 drop with 4 drops of V-6 or olive oil." Test on small area of skin under-side of arm and apply to desired area as needed.
How exactly do you measure 4 drops of carrier oil?
Hi Debi, Thanks for your question. You may dispense four drops of carrier oil directly from the container or for easier measuring, try utilizing a Glass Dropper or an Easy Fill Pipette. We hope this information is helpful!
I just received my kit a couple of weeks ago. I am a bit nervous about using them as I haven't done much research, but want to live a healthier lifestyle. Where can I safely apply topically and how do I know if or how much carrier oil to use? I'm not comfortable with ingestion as of yet until I learn more about the oils. Any help or direction would be greatly appreciated! Thank you!
Hi Nancy, Thank you for your question. It really depends on the separate oils that are used. Please always refer to the label for usage directions. We hope you enjoy your kit.