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Meet the Experts
What Is a Carrier Oil?
Carrier oils are plant oilssuch as avocado or coconutused as a vehicle to deliver essential oils.
Liz deSousa for BYRDIE
Common carrier oils includerosehip, jojoba, vitamin E, sunflower, andcoconut.
“Not all oils are created equal,” says Idriss.
“Some are heavier in weight and tend to be occlusive whereas others are more lightweight and volatile.
In other words, carrier oils can slow the signs of aging and general skin degradation.
Byrdie Tip
Use carrier oils on damp skin for easy absorption.
“Many botanical oils are multi-functional and can work for more than one skin punch in.
Below, find some top common carrier oils for skincare known to help heal various concerns.
Use after surgery.”
They can be soothing and super hydrating for eczema and all skin types, especially aging and irritated skin.
It also helps to unclog pores and fight inflammation, so acne- and eczema-prone skin really reaps the benefits.
It contains tocopherols and phytosterolsantioxidant-rich emollients that hydrate and protect from free radicals.
It can, however, be can be mildly comedogenic, so take note if you are acne-prone.
It does come from a nut so those with allergies should stay away.
That’s because it’s moisturizing but also non-comedogenic, so it wont leave the skin feeling greasy.
She says it’s not technically an oil, but rather is a liquid wax ester.
Coconut
Another low-cost carrier oil, Gillerman like coconut oil for its ease of use.
(Note that coconut oil remains solid up to 75 degrees).
However, be aware that it’squite comedogenicand could cause breakouts in those with acne-prone skin.
Problem-Solving Carrier Oils
To address specific skin needs, certain problem-solving carrier oils might be of interest.
According to Gillerman,evening primrose oilcan help address hormone imbalances.
It boostscollagen productionand elasticity,” she says.
Gillerman also favors prickly pear oil which she says works wonders on dark circles and broken capillaries.
People with nut allergies and sensitivities need to avoid any carrier oil products containing nuts and nut derivatives.
Additionally, always read labels to avoid oils that are packaged in plants that process oils containing nuts.
“To avoid oxidation and potential irritation, choose oils with a long shelf life, like jojoba.”
Always check the use-by date when purchasing (online sellers will provide this information).
Store all carrier oils in a cool, dark place, or refrigerate.
Never heat oil directly as that might compromise its integrity.
Instead, leave at room temperature before use.
you might go up to 5 percent essential oil dilution for body use.
Researchessential oilsto tailor a skincare formulation to your targeted needs, and remember that essential oils are incredibly potent.
Kaminaka C, Yamamoto Y, Sakata M, et al.
2020;47(9):998-1006.
