Carrier oils are also known as base oils because they're used for diluting essential and absolute oils before applying to the skin. They may be blended or used alone, and each type has its own unique properties.
Features
Carrier oils are typically derived from vegetable fats and produced using the cold-press method of extraction. Cold-pressed carrier oils are of higher quality, but often have a shorter shelf life than oils extracted with heat.
Types
There are two primary types of carrier oils: vegetable oils and nut oils. Popular vegetable carrier oils include olive, sweet almond, grape seed and jojoba. Commonly used carrier oils made from nuts include walnut, pecan, coconut and peanut.
Uses
Carrier oils are used in massage, aromatherapy and natural cosmetics to literally "carry" essential oils, herbal extracts, vitamins and minerals onto the skin where they can be absorbed.
Availability
Common carrier oils are easily obtained in natural health or cosmetic supply stores. Olive oil, canola oil and other high-quality vegetable oils can be found at the supermarket.
Warning
Carrier oils made from nuts, such as peanut oil, may cause allergic reactions in some individuals. If a peanut allergy is present, avoid the use of nut-based carrier oils.
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