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.
What are carrier 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.
What aren’t carrier oils?
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.
How are carrier oils used?
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!
Get to know some of the more popular carrier oils!
V-6
**
- A proprietary Young Living formula combining fractionated coconut oil, grapeseed oil, sweet almond oil, wheat germ oil (contains a lot of vitamin E and acts as a natural preservative), sunflower oil, and olive oil
- Moisturizes and nourishes the skin
- An excellent carrier oil for all your best essential oils and applications
**Caution: May cause a reaction to those with nut allergies.
Grapeseed Oil
- Light and thin consistency
- Well suited for massages; leaves a light glossy film over the skin
- Moisturizing
- High in linoleic acid
- Relatively short shelf life
Sweet Almond Oil*
- Slightly sweet, nutty aroma
- Medium consistency
- Absorbs relatively quickly; leaves a slight hint of oil on the skin
- Rich in vitamin E and oleic acid
- Moisturizing
- Good all-purpose carrier oil
*Caution: May cause a reaction to those with nut allergies.
Jojoba Oil
- Slightly nutty aroma
- Medium consistency
- Superior, non-greasy absorption, similar to the skin’s natural oils
- Moisturizing for skin and hair
- Long shelf life
Olive Oil
- Popular, easy-to-find oil used in both topical and culinary applications
- Thicker consistency; leaves an oily feel on the skin
- Stronger aroma
- Good source of oleic acid (omega fatty acid)
- Relatively short shelf life
Fractionated Coconut Oil
- Unlike coconut oil, fractionated coconut oil is liquid at room temperature
- No noticeable aroma
- Absorbs well; leaves skin feeling silky and moisturized; non-greasy
- High in essential fatty acids
- Long shelf life
Coconut Oil
- Solid at room temperature
- Distinct coconut aroma
- Solid white color
- Leaves a moisturizing, oily feeling layer on top of the skin
- Long shelf life
Cocoa Butter
- Solid and difficult to work with at room temperature
- Best used when melted and blended with other carrier oils
- Sweet, chocolate aroma
Shea Butter
- Solid at room temperature
- Nutty aroma
- Cream colored
- Moisturizing to skin and hair; leaves behind a moisturizing, waxy-feeling layer
Hello, I just bought two bottles of sweet almond oil, but although I thought it was pure, I just realised it’s mixed with other ingredients, such as Glyceril Caprylate, Parfum, and Tocopheril Acetate etc. Is it still ok to use this as carrier oil for aromatherapy (inhalation), or would the chemicals interfere with the therapeutic qualities of my pure essential oils?
Hi Effie, Great question. While the efficacy of the essential oils will not be compromised by using this particular sweet almond oil, we suggest looking into alternative carrier oils such as our V-6™ Vegetable Oil Complex which contains only pure ingredients. Thanks for stopping by!
Hi is vegetable glycerine a carrier oil? As i can’t seem to mix the essential oil with it. Or must i add another oil with the vegetable glycerine?
Thank you
Hi Eyqa, Vegetable glycerin is typically used as an agent for toothpastes, shampoos and soap. We suggest using one of the carrier oils listed above when using essential oils. Thanks for stopping by with your question!
What is the best carrier oil for lavender oil? Thanks.
Hi! Love the article, thank you for all the great information! I have oily, acne prone skin with some occasional dry patches, but I am primarily concerned with treating the oil and acne. So I am wondering which essential and carrier oils you’d recommend to use for a person of my skin type. Thasks again!
Hi Gyasi, We recommend viewing our blog post Keep Your Skin Looking Timeless and discussing the possibility of essential oils with a dermatologist. Thanks for stopping by!
For general defficiency of Vitamin E how much essential wheat germ oil is to be used every day and with which carrier oil?
Hi Bipin, As the health and well-being of our members is very important to us, we do recommend consulting with your health care provider for specific recommendations concerning a Vitamin E deficiency. Thank you for stopping by with your question!
Hi can all the carrier oils be mixed together with a few essential oils
Hi Phoebe, You are more than welcome to create your own carrier oil blend and add your favorite essential oils! You could also use our V-6™ Vegetable Oil Complex which is pre-mixed and ready to create custom blends, formulas and massage oils. Thanks for stopping by with your question!
I have 100% tea tree oil and want to dilute it with jojoba oil. How much jojoba do i mix with my tea tree oil for my face?
Hi Cathy, We recommend following the usage directions listed on the bottle label for dilution instruction. If you have further concerns, we suggest consulting with a dermatologist about the use of essential oils. Thanks for stopping by with your question!
Hello, Please where can i buy young living oils in Nigeria?
Hi…I have a question?Can I mix almond oil,coconut oil oil,shea butter,coconut butter, with couple drops of essential peppermint oil ,for making body lotion?
Hi Fahi, You are more than welcome to create your own carrier oil blend and add your favorite essential oils! You could also use our V-6™ Vegetable Oil Complex which is pre-mixed and ready to create custom blends, formulas and massage oils. Thanks for stopping by with your question!
Do you put the essential oils in the carrier oils without diluting the carrier oil?
Hi Ahmed, The suggested carrier oils are used to dilute the essential oils. The carrier oil itself does not need to be diluted. We recommend following the usage directions listed on the individual bottle labels for diluting instructions. Additional dilution can be added for those with sensitive skin. Thanks for stopping by with your question!
Hi there,
Ive been told Moringa Oil is the ultimate carrier oil at recent laboratory convention. and the highest oleic of any oils. Could you help weigh in on this bold statement.
Hello Violetta, Each carrier oil has their own unique properties and characteristics they can bring to the table. They can be mixed and matched to find the perfect blend for each individual person. Moringa oils is an excellent choice for a carrier oil as well. Thanks for stopping by with your question!
Hi, Could anyone help me to find where to buy the carrier oils – European YL?
Is it possible to use sesame oil as a carrier oil?
Hi Jessica, Sesame oil would be a great choice for a carrier oil! Thanks for stopping by!
Hi , i am planning to buy geranium oil for my face and hair . which carrier oil will be good for face and hair. Please suggest me
Hi Hajira, Jojoba oil would be an excellent choice as it is moisturizing for skin and hair! Thanks for stopping by!
I have lavender, jojoba, and tea tree oil.. what would be best way to make use of these three for my acne, fungal and dandruff issues. Further i also have a kind of insomnia, not sure though.
Hi Monil, Young Living’s products are intended only for the use listed on individual labels—either for topical/aromatic use or as a Dietary supplement. Please always refer to the label for usage directions. Because Young Living’s products are not labeled to be used as drugs, they are not intended for use in the treatment or cure of disease or any abnormal function of the body, including ailments or injuries. Therefore, Young Living cannot provide advice or recommendation for products to address any type of disease, ailment, or injury. We advise that you consult with a medical professional on your specific issue.
Can you add essential oils to OTC moisturizers, such as Aveeno?
Hi Kim, Great question! You are free to add essential oils to your favorite moisturizers or lotions. Thanks for stopping by!
What about soybean oil?
Hi Maggie,
Soybean oil can be applied topically. Although, if you have concerns about it’s use, we recommend seeing a dermatologist before trying it. Thanks for stopping by!
i have just received my order of endo flex. I am new to oil world and did not know this needed to be used with a carrier oil. learning what that means in reading the above. If I were to mix with the olive oil i have until i order some of the v-6 what is the ratio of EVOO to endoflex? thank you1
Hi Jeannie, Great question. It is recommended to dilute 1 drop of EndoFlex™ with 1 drop of carrier oil, then apply to desired area. Thanks for stopping by!
Hi, I have made my own car air freshener (crocheted sachet/bag and soft toy filling), Im using essential oils and a carrier oil (almond oil) but the smell of the essential oil fades to a point of no smell in a couple of days, does anybody know if im doing something wrong or if im using the wrong carrier oil. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
Thanks x
Hello,
Has anyone ever considered using Avocado Oil? Can that also be considered a Carrier Oil ?
Hi Bernadette, Great question. Avocado oil can be used as a carrier oil if you like! Thanks for stopping by!
Hello… I want to try and make pepperiment oil wondering what the best carrier oil would be to use ..
Hey Jennifer,
Many oils will work with Peppermint oil. A carrier oil that works well with it in particular is grapeseed oil. It has a high linoleic acid content and helps with moisturizing.
Thanks for stopping by with your question!
Is vegetable glycerine a good carrier oil to use?
Hi Donna, Vegetable glycerin can be used as a carrier oil if you like! Thanks for stopping by!
can i mix jojoba, sweet almond, rosehip, avocado and olive oil carrier oils for skin moisturizing purposes?
Hi Ndeojen, You are more than welcome to create your own carrier oil blend and add your favorite essential oils! You could also use our V-6™ Vegetable Oil Complex which is pre-mixed and ready to create custom blends, formulas and massage oils. Thanks for stopping by with your question!
Hi, I am just getting introduced to essential and carrier oils, though i have been using coconut, olive and castor oils for my hair and body (not on my face) since many years now. So, I am quite confused about how to use these oils: the best way to mix them, which oils to mix for what purpose, and how best to use them. Kindly throw some light?
Hi Aparajita, We recommend referring to the individual product labels for usage directions. We offer descriptions and suggested usage of our products on our website. Thanks for stopping by!
Hi
Can i use rose oil directly?i mean undiluted? If no then please suggest me some carrier oil.
Thanks
Hi Naveet, Great question. Dilution is not required for the use of Rose, except for the most sensitive skin. Please refer to the label for usage directions. Thanks for stopping by!
Could I mix Hemp Oil, Coconut Oil, Argan Oil and Vitamin E for a skin and hair applicator?
Hi James, You are more than welcome to create your own carrier oil blend and add your favorite essential oils! You could also use our V-6™ Vegetable Oil Complex which is pre-mixed and ready to create custom blends, formulas and massage oils. Thanks for stopping by with your question!
I was wondering how far in advance can you make up a capsule? How long do they last once they are made?
Hi Valerie, Great question! When preparing the capsules, you would want to prepare them as needed or they will begin to dissolve. Thanks for stopping by!
Hi, can I mix Frankincense oil with hemp oil? Is hemp oil considered a carrier oil?
Hi Patty, You are welcome to blend the essential oils with other natural plant based oils of your choosing. Hemp seed oil is considered a carrier oil that could be used with essential oils such as Frankincense. Thanks for stopping by with your question!
What are your views on Argan oil as a carrier oil?
Can I mix sweet almond oil with grape seed oil to apply on my skin?
Hi Patchara, You are more than welcome to create your own carrier oil blend and add your favorite essential oils! You could also use our V-6™ Vegetable Oil Complex which is pre-mixed and ready to create custom blends, formulas and massage oils. Thanks for stopping by with your question!
I love Apricot kernel oil for face serums, fractionated coconut oil for roll-ons, cold pressed coconut oil for body lotions/butters.
can i use grapeseed oil as a base oil for my tea tree oil peppermint oil and lemon oil? please suggest.
Hi Suchita, Yes Grapeseed oil is an excellent choice for a carrier oil as it is high in linoleic acid and moisturizing. Thanks for stopping by with your question!
I keep coconut oil, sweet almond oil, shea butter, and jojoba oil. Coconut & sweet almond oil are the oils I use most often with my essential oils.
Is it necessary to dilute Wheat Germ Oil, which is also a carrier oil, before application?
Hi Anna, It is not necessary to dilute Wheat Germ Oil with another carrier oil prior to application. Thanks for stopping by!
Hi, just starting oils so please bear with me :) Two questions: Is this oil gluten free? My other question, if I am using V-6 as a carrier oil in samples so I can stretch my oils further, can the samples be diffused or no? Thank you for your help!
Hello Karen, V-6™ is not considered gluten free as it contains wheat germ oil. Most of our Diffusers are compatible with diluted essential oils. Please refer to your diffuser manual for specific care and usage instructions.
hi
thanks for this article very informative ..
which do you think would be the best carrier oil to use to mix with turmeric with my intention of improving my blood circulation?
Hi Cyntha, As carrier oils have varying characteristics you may want to try out a few to find the one that’s best for you. We recommend referring to the product label for usage directions. Thanks for stopping by with your question!
HI,,,
Can i combine extra virgin olive oil, grapeseed oil, sunflower oil, and sweet almond oil as my carrier oil? if so, what essential oils can u recommend? thank u very much!!!!
Hi Jessie, You are more than welcome to create your own carrier oil and add your favorite essential oils! You could also use our V-6™ Vegetable Oil Complex which is pre-mixed and ready to create custom blends, formulas and massage oils. Thanks for stopping by with your question!
Hi our store carries your oils. I have a customer question. What are the base ouls? Shes interest in citrus and grapefruit. But is allergic to avacado and nuts.
Hi Charli, Our single oils do not contain any base oils and are 100% pure essential oil. However, some of our other products do contain carrier oils. We recommend they review the product ingredients listed on our website before beginning use. Thanks for stopping by with your question!
Hi there! Just curious, I’ve always used grape seed oil but am thinking of trying rice bran however I have a client who is gluten intolerant and am concerned but can’t find any info if this can or can’t be used in massage on those who are.
Hello Anne, Typically rice bran does not contain gluten allergens. However, as Young Living® does not carry this product we are unable to provide more information. We recommend contacting the manufacturer of the rice bran to receive further in-depth information. Thanks for stopping by with your question!
Which carrier oils are good for making up capsules? All of the oils I’ve found say you shouldn’t ingest them, and all the vitality oils say you should dilute with a carrier.
Hello Daunell, You may dilute essential oils for dietary use with a carrier oil of your choice as directed on the product labels. Our V-6™ Vegetable Oil Complex is an excellent carrier oil for diluting oils in a capsule. Thanks for stopping by!
I have used olive oil from my kitchen to make many roller recipes over the last 6 months. Upon reading this information, I am concerned about my ability to detect when the oldest oil has gone rancid. Do you have recommendations for detection of oil blends I should no longer use? And will bad olive oil affect the properties of the essential oil?
Hello Kat, Excellent questions! Our essential oil blends which contain carrier oils have a shelf life of 2-3 years, based on our past testing results. However, we are currently running stability testing to verify the shelf life of these blends. In our experience, the aroma, taste and consistency will change when olive oil has gone rancid. We do not recommend using rancid carrier oil. You may want to speak with the manufacturer of the olive oil you are using for more specific information related to the shelf life of the product.
I’m looking to dilute tea tree oil with something that contains a lot of vitamin e, would sweet almond oil be the best choice for that? What ratio of tea tree oil to sweet almond oil should I use? And should I add water, if so what ratio of that as well?
Thank you
Hi Aileen, These are excellent questions! Sweet Almond Oil would be a great choice as it is rich in vitamin E. Jojoba and Argan oil are great options as well. According to the label directions, dilution is not required for Tea Tree oil. However, you are welcome to dilute it according to your personal preference and needs. You can try starting with a ratio of 1:1 then increasing the amount of carrier oil if you choose. Thanks for stopping by!
Can macadamia nut oil be used as well?
Hi Nalani, Yes, macadamia nut oil can be used as a carrier oil if you would like. Thanks for stopping by!
How long will V6 keep in the pantry? Can I tell by looks or smell that it has expired?
Hi Francis, Based on past testing results, the shelf life of V-6™ is approximately two years. However, we are currently running additional stability testing to verify the shelf life of this specific product.
Can I use the costco Mediterranean blend as a carrier? it has (canola, grapseed, and olive oil)?
Yes, you can use this product as a carrier oil if you choose.
I am looking for a carrier oil that could be used in combination with a YL essential oil on a teething babe. Which product is labeled appropriately for this application? Thank you for your response!
Hi Meghann, V-6™ Vegetable Oil Complex or any pure vegetable oil of your choice can be used to dilute essential oils for children. Due to the extreme sensitivity of children we do recommend extra caution. Please speak with a health care professional if you have any concerns. You may find the information given in this blog post useful as well: Essential Oils in the Nursery Thanks for stopping by!
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?
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!
I just ordered. New to ALL of this!
The carrier oil. .is it the same amount of drops as the EO?
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!