Carrier oil vs Essential oil: The Differences

Are you an aromatherapy enthusiast or a curious beginner and are wondering what’s the difference…. carrier oil vs essential oil?

You may have come across the terms “carrier oils” and “essential oils”, but what’s the difference, and what unique benefits does each oil offer?

The truth is, each oil serves a different purpose, and understanding their differences is essential in making an informed choice. Also, they both play a vital role in promoting your well-being and beauty.

This blog post aims at providing you with clarity so you can choose the right oil for your needs.

Read on to explore the dissimilarities between carrier oil and essential oil, their application, and their benefits.

So, let’s dive in!

Carrier Oil vs Essential Oil: What’s the Difference?

This simple comparison table breaks down carrier oil vs essential oil.

Aspect	Carrier Oil	Essential Oil
Source	Obtained from nuts, seeds, or kernels of plants	Derived from aromatic parts of plants through distillation
Purpose	Dilute essential, or act as a base oil for safe topical application	Provide concentrated fragrance and therapeutic benefits
Aroma	Mild, subtle scent	Stronger aroma, distinct fragrance
Volatility	Less volatile, evaporates slowly	Highly volatile, evaporates quickly
Absorption	Absorbs into the skin, so it’s ideal for massage	Doesn’t absorb into the skin. Is often used in aromatherapy
Usage	Blending with essential oils, massage, skincare	Aromatherapy, perfumes, diffusers, cleaning products
Shelf Life	Longer shelf life due to lower volatility and oxidation rate	Shorter shelf life, susceptible to oxidation and evaporation
Examples	Olive oil(which is a vegetable oil), sweet almond oil, jojoba oil, castor oil, and coconut oil.	Lavender oil, tea tree oil, peppermint oil

What Is a Carrier Oil?

Carrier oil as the name suggests “carry” or serve as a foundation for essential oils.

They are plant-based oils because they come from the fatty parts of plants, such as seeds, fruits, nuts, or kernels. People use these oils to dilute essential oils before applying them on their skin or use them alone.

They possess unique nourishing properties for diluting essential oils. Carrier oils are odorless with no aromatic compounds and have a mild scent. The good news is, they are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids.

And act as vehicles to carry essential oils onto your skin, so there’s no irritation.

Here are some popular carrier oils and their beneficial properties.

Jojoba Oil

Jojoba is a versatile plant whose oil and seeds are used for medicinal properties.  It’s used as a carrier oil and it resembles the natural oils produced by your skin.

On top of that,  the oil absorbs fast into the skin without leaving a greasy residue.

People use it to treat various ailments. For example, sore throats, skin, and scalp problems.

Further studies show the oil has antioxidant properties, is anti-acne, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antimicrobial, anti-psoriasis, and much more.

Jojoba oil can help moisturize your skin and promote a healthy complexion.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is an excellent carrier oil that not only smells good but is known for its moisturizing properties and is often used in skincare routines.  Unrefined coconut oil is a great carrier oil and it has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory benefits.

However, it’s important to note that coconut oil may be comedogenic for some individuals, potentially clogging pores and causing breakouts.

Avocado Oil

I love avocados, do you?  If you’ve had the pressure of eating this fruit, you know it’s different from all the other fruits.

It’s not only rich in carotenoids, monounsaturated fats, potassium, and fiber but also reduces the risk of chronic diseases.

But what about the oil?

Avocado oil is a great antioxidant and it can help to nourish and hydrate your skin. The oil is more beneficial for dry or mature skin, as it helps improve elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Sweet Almond Oil

Sweet almond oil is popular for sensitive skin due to its gentle and hypoallergenic nature.

It has moisturizing properties and can help soothe irritation or inflammation.

People use it in aromatherapy as a carrier oil because it has a strong nutty aroma that masks strong essential oil scents.

Also, its light and therefore absorbs fast into the skin.

It’s popular as a carrier oil and it’s used for skin care, as a massage oil, in soaps, and in bath oils.

Grapeseed Oil

Cheers if you’ve used grapeseed oil as a carrier oil…

Just like fine wine ages with time so does grapeseed oil reduce the signs of aging.

Grapeseed oil is lightweight and non-greasy,  and it packs great anti-oxidant properties. The oil helps maintain healthy, smooth skin.

And its high levels of vitamin E make it suitable for lightening acne scars, keloids, and sun spots.

It absorbs quickly, leaving the skin feeling smooth and hydrated.

What is an Essential Oil?

Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts obtained through various extraction methods, such as steam distillation or cold pressing.

These oils capture the essence and aroma of the plant and possess potent therapeutic properties. Essential oils are often used in aromatherapy, skincare, and natural remedies.

Now,  just like you eat healthy food you should also never apply essential oils on your skin without diluting it first.

Here’s why: since the oils are concentrated they may burn, cause irritation, or an allergic reaction to your skin.

And now you’re thinking… will I still reap all the benefits of the essential oil if I dilute it ?…. Yes, you will while keeping your skin safe.

Here are a few popular essential oils and their skincare properties:

Lavender Oil

You guessed it. Lavender oil has antibacterial properties that help kill bacteria, prevent and heal acne. It gets better, the oil doesn’t clog pores, therefore it can help you treat pimples, prevent inflammation, and calm and soothe irritated skin.

Use with it a carrier oil of your choice to treat acne.  The oil also promotes relaxation and improves sleep quality.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil has powerful antimicrobial properties, making it beneficial for treating acne-prone skin and inflammation.

It helps control excess oil, reduce blemishes, and soothe inflamed skin. However, it’s important to use tea tree oil in low concentrations as it can be irritating to some individuals.

Rosehip Oil

Ever heard of rosehip oil? It’s rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids.

For your skin, it promotes skin regeneration and reduces the appearance of scars and fine lines. So, if you’re struggling with the effects of the sun on your skin you need this oil to glow and moisturize your cuticles, and scalp.

Add it you your moisturizer, massage oil, or mask to improve your overall skin tone and texture.

Frankincense Oil

You’re struggling with sunburn, breakouts, and irritated and damaged skin. So what do you do? You use Frankincense oil to soothe, calm and restore your epidermis.

You can use this oil to rejuvenate and reduce the signs of aging, improve skin your skin elasticity, and promote a more youthful complexion.

Remember to dilute with a carrier oil or add it to your moisturizer. Keep reading…

Chamomile Oil

Chamomile oil on the other hand has soothing and calming properties.  But that’s not all, it has anti-inflammatory properties and is effective in treating acne, and eczema.

Also, it reduces swelling, and redness and it’s ideal for sensitive irritated skin.  

Geranium Oil

Geranium oil is often used for balancing oil production and improving the appearance of the skin. It can help tighten the skin, reduce the appearance of pores, and promote a clear complexion.

Remember, essential oils are highly concentrated, and a little goes a long way. Always dilute them properly with carrier oil before applying them to the skin.

Using Carrier Oils and Essential Oils Together

 

Carrier oils and essential oils are truly two halves of a whole when it comes to skincare. Together, they offer a powerful blend of natural healing benefits and scents.

First, you need a carrier oil to dilute your essential oil so you can use it on your skin to avoid irritation and burning.

Essential oil on the hand, adds aromatherapeutic benefits and preservative value to the carrier oil as well.

By blending your favorite essential oils with an appropriate carrier oil, you can make your own facial serums for toned, vibrant skin or a luxuriant massage oil using sesame oil.

Now, remember everyone’s skin is different, so there is no one-size-fits-all solution when blending carrier oils and essential oils together.

The best way to find the perfect combination that works best for you is to experiment with different combinations of scents and carrier oils until you find what suits your needs.

With a bit of experimentation, you’re sure to come up with the perfect blend just for you!

When using carrier oils and essential oils together, consider the dilution ratio.

The general guideline is to use a 1-2% dilution, meaning 1-2 drops of essential oil per teaspoon (5 mL) of carrier oil.

However, the dilution ratio varies depending on the essential oil and individual sensitivity. Always start with a lower dilution and perform a patch test to check for any adverse reactions.

Benefits of Using Carrier Oils with Essential Oils?

Using carrier oils with essential oils gives you the opportunity to reduce the drops you need to achieve your desired effect. And also, while reaping all of the benefits.

When selecting a carrier oil, find one that suits your skin care needs and make sure it won’t interfere with any medications or allergies you may have.

Now, not only does diluting your essential oils save you money in the long run but it also adds slip to blends….making them easier to massage into skin for a longer duration.

The most important benefit of using carrier oils alongside essential oils is safety. Many essential oils are potent and you need to dilute them before use; otherwise, you’ll cause irritation or sensitivity with direct application.

By blending them with a carrier oil such as coconut, sesame, or olive, you can avoid experiencing any skin reactions.

Additionally, these combinations prolong absorption and increase the effectiveness of some oil-soluble vitamins and minerals within skin care products.

How to Improve Carrier and Essential Oil Shelf Life?

If you want to increase the shelf life of your carrier oil or essential oil keep your products away from any direct sunlight and heat sources, like radiators or fireplaces.

Doing this helps to keep the temperature consistent and avoids degrading the oil’s composition, resulting in early spoilage.

Additionally, tightly sealing any opened containers and bottles reduces any oxidation that may occur due to air getting into the container.

Keep your oils at room temperature to reduce adverse reactions from extreme temperatures which can shorten their shelf life.

Clear glass containers are best for carrier oils because they allow you to see if oxidation is occurring. Look out for a rancid smell as it’s a sign of expiration.

Finally,  discard any expired products right away. Leaving them in your home can create health risks due to toxins released by mold and bacteria eating through the oils.

FAQ’S Carrier Oil Vs Essential Oil

• Can carrier oils be used on their own, without essential oils?

Yes, you can use carrier oils for various skincare purposes. They are gentle and moisturizing, so they hydrate the skin,  and you can use them for massage, or as a base for DIY beauty formulations.

• Are essential oils safe to use directly on the skin?

No, essential oils are highly concentrated and potent, so using them directly on the skin can cause irritation or sensitivity. Dilute essential oils in carrier oils before topical application to ensure safe usage.

• What are the primary uses of carrier oils?

Carrier oils are versatile and are common for various skincare and beauty routines. You can use them for moisturizing the skin, creating massage blends, and diluting essential oils.

Also, as ingredients in DIY skincare products such as serums, balms, and lotions.

• Do carrier oils have a scent?

Yes, they do. Carrier oils have a mild, subtle scent compared to the distinct aromas of essential oils. However, some carrier oils, such as unrefined coconut oil or olive oil, may have a noticeable fragrance due to their natural characteristics.

• Can carrier oils clog pores?

Yes, some can and while carrier oils have different levels of comedogenicity (the tendency to clog pores)….most carrier oils are non-comedogenic and are unlikely to cause breakouts or clogged pores. However, you should consider your skin type and sensitivity when selecting a carrier oil.

• Which carrier oil is best for sensitive skin?

For sensitive skin,  choose carrier oils that are light, non-greasy, and gentle. Some suitable options include sweet almond oil, apricot kernel oil, and jojoba oil. These are known for their soothing and hypoallergenic properties.

Conclusion: Carrier vs Essential Oils

In the realm of natural wellness and skincare, both carrier oils and essential oils hold significant value. Carrier oils provide benefits like moisturization, nourishment, and dilution of essential oils.

On the other hand, essential oils are concentrated powerhouses. Each oil possesses unique therapeutic properties which positively impact our physical and emotional well-being.

Understanding carrier oil vs essential oil empowers you to make an informed choice when utilizing these oils in your daily life.

Whether you seek relaxation, rejuvenation, or specific skincare benefits, the world of carrier and essential oils offers a wide range of options to explore.

So,  are you ready to embrace the power of these natural oils? Remember you can create your own blends of body moisturizers, facial cleansers, massage oils, and skin toners too…