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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When using a carrier oil with an essential oil, should the carrier oil be applied first or after the essential oil application?
Great question Tony! When using a carrier oil with essential oils meant for topical use, mix the oil(s) and the carrier oil together prior to application for best results. Thanks for stopping by!
Are there any natural carrier oils that will make essential oil scents last longer?
I just ordered. New to ALL of this!
The carrier oil. .is it the same amount of drops as the EO?
Great question, Ferris. We would suggest using a carrier oil which is derived from nuts, seeds, or fruit such as almond, walnut, pumpkin, sesame, sunflower, wheat germ, rice bran, avocado, coconut, grapeseed jojoba, flax seed, hemp. These oils are heavier fatty oils that may help the aroma from essential oils last longer. It is also important to note that the aroma of essential oils with heavier compounds (Sandalwood, Myrrh, Copaiba, Cedarwood) will characteristically last longer. Thanks for stopping by!
Many years ago I had heard that the V6 blend was food grade quality and not only could you use it on the skin but could even be used on a salad, is this still true of today's current formulation?
Hi Robert, Thanks for stopping by with your question. Although all the oils in V-6™ are considered food grade, we have chosen to label it as a massage oil in the personal care section of our product line. You should always use Young Living products in a manner consistent with the labeling.
I brought lavender oil, how can I use it to help my skin please?
Hi Charlotte, For more information on how to utilize Young Living products for your skin, please visit https://www.youngliving.com/blog/an-oil-cleanse-to-keep-your-skin-timeless-looking/. Thanks for stopping by!
Would canola oil be OK?
Hi Becky, You may use canola oil as a carrier oil if you choose.
Can you tell me anything about Argan oil as a carrier? Or Rosehip? For facial moisturizing primarily
Great questions Rachel! According to our research, both Argan Oil and Rosehip oil are excellent carrier oils for facial moisturizing.
Can emu oil be used as a carrier oil?
Hi Terry, Thanks for stopping by with your question. Emu oil can be used as a carrier oil if you choose. We hope this information is helpful!
What carrier do you recommend if I'm using your oils to create a men's cologne?
Great question, James. V-6 is a great all-purpose carrier oil, but there are several others that would work well too. Try selecting one with a scent you enjoy. Thanks for your question and for stopping by!
I like the Grape Seed oil for my capsules, and I have on hand Coconut oil plus I use Sun flower oil for make up remover.
I will be trying the V-6 oil soon.
Hi there! This a great information. Thank you! Is emu oil considered a carrier oil?
Hi Terry, Thanks for stopping by with your question. Emu oil can be used as a carrier oil if you choose. We hope this information is helpful!