Essential oils are powerful – and when used safely, they can be incredibly supportive for your family’s wellbeing. This section covers the basics of choosing the right carrier oils, so you can blend with confidence and keep things gentle, especially for sensitive or neurodivergent skin.
Carrier oils are the unsung heroes of essential oil blending. They not only dilute your oils for safe use, but they also enhance absorption, reduce evaporation, and moisturise the skin. Choosing the right carrier oil can make a real difference to the feel and effectiveness of your blends, so it’s worth knowing a bit about the options.
Popular Carrier Oils
Fractionated Coconut Oil
Light, non-greasy, and fast-absorbing.
Clear and liquid at all temperatures, making it a great all-purpose choice.
Has a long shelf life and won’t clog pores, which makes it a favourite for rollers and massage blends.
Jojoba Oil
Closest to the natural oils in your skin.
Absorbs quickly and leaves a soft, satiny feel.
Naturally antibacterial and non-comedogenic, so it’s great for face blends.
Sweet Almond Oil
Rich in vitamins A, B, and E.
Great for dry or sensitive skin and has a slightly nutty scent.
A bit heavier than some other carrier oils, so better for body blends.
Grapeseed Oil
Lightweight and fast-absorbing.
High in antioxidants and linoleic acid, making it a good choice for oily or acne-prone skin.
Has a slightly astringent feel, so it works well for massage and muscle blends.
Avocado Oil
Ultra-rich and deeply nourishing.
Packed with fatty acids and vitamins, making it great for dry or mature skin.
Thicker and slower to absorb, so better for small areas or deeply moisturising blends.
Olive Oil
Deeply hydrating and packed with antioxidants.
Heavier and slower to absorb, but great for dry or rough skin.
Has a stronger scent, so best used in small amounts or with stronger essential oils.
Hemp Seed Oil
High in omega fatty acids and vitamins.
Absorbs quickly and has a slightly earthy scent.
Great for inflamed or problem skin, but can spoil quickly, so store it carefully.
Rosehip Oil
Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.
Known for its regenerative properties, making it great for scars and ageing skin.
Can be a bit pricier, so often used in facial blends or serums.
Argan Oil
Light but deeply moisturising.
High in vitamin E and fatty acids, making it great for hair, nails, and skin.
Absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave a greasy residue.
Choosing the Right Carrier Oil
Here’s a quick reference guide for diluting essential oils based on bottle size and desired strength:
For Face Blends: Choose a lighter oil like Jojoba or Rosehip, which won’t clog pores.
For Body Blends: Use something a bit richer, like Sweet Almond or Avocado Oil, for better hydration.
For Massage: Look for a medium-weight oil like Grapeseed or Fractionated Coconut Oil, which spread easily and don’t absorb too quickly.
For Sensitive Skin: Choose a gentle, nourishing oil like Jojoba or Hemp Seed Oil.
For Oily or Acne-Prone Skin: Go for something lighter, like Grapeseed or Jojoba, which won’t leave a greasy residue.
A Few Tips
Mix and Match: Don’t be afraid to mix a few different carrier oils to get the texture and absorption you like.
Shelf Life Matters: Some oils, like Hemp Seed and Avocado, have a shorter shelf life and can go rancid if not stored properly.
Test for Sensitivity: Just like essential oils, some carrier oils can cause skin reactions, so patch test if you’re trying a new one.
