What Are Carrier Oils and Why Are They Essential in Aromatherapy Blends?

In my previous posts, I explored how essential oils are absorbed into the body and how their chemical properties influence both body and mind.

Today, I’d like to shift the focus to the unsung heroes of every blend — the carrier oils.

These gentle, nourishing oils form the base of each formula, allowing essential oils to work safely and effectively on the skin.

 

🌿 What Are Carrier Oils?

Essential oils are incredibly concentrated — a few drops can contain the power of an entire plant. Because of this, they are always diluted before being applied to the skin.

Carrier oils (also called base oils) are the gentle, nourishing oils that safely carry essential oils onto the skin, allowing them to be absorbed gradually and comfortably.

While essential oils often take the spotlight, the choice of carrier oil plays an equally important role. Each has its own texture, absorption rate, and unique skin benefits — making it an essential part of a well-balanced blend.

 

🪷 Carrier Oils for Face Care

For facial blends, I often combine two or three carrier oils depending on the skin’s condition, texture preference, and sensitivity. Each oil supports the skin differently — from moisture retention to regeneration and protection.

Cacay Oil

Pressed from the nuts of the Caryodendron orinocense tree, Cacay oil is rich in vitamin A (natural retinol), vitamin E, and linoleic acid.

It supports skin renewal, elasticity, and radiance, helping to restore smoothness and a healthy glow.

This oil suits mature, dry, or uneven skin types.

Jojoba Oil

Technically a liquid wax, jojoba is very close in structure to the skin’s natural sebum, helping to balance both oily and dry skin.

It absorbs easily, strengthens the skin barrier, and supports hydration without clogging pores.

Perfect for combination, sensitive, or acne-prone skin.

Apricot Kernel Oil

Light and silky, apricot oil is rich in oleic and linoleic acids, soothing irritation and softening rough areas.

It’s well tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive and delicate skin.

It adds a smooth texture and a comforting feel to facial blends.

 

Order your bespoke face oil from here

 

🌸 Carrier Oils for Body Care

For body blends, I often use Sweet Almond Oil as a base — gentle, nourishing, and full of vitamins A, B, and E.

It supports smooth, hydrated skin and allows essential oils to spread evenly.

For those with nut allergies, I replace it with Grapeseed Oil, a lightweight alternative that absorbs quickly and supports circulation and skin tone without leaving a greasy feel.

It’s also possible to combine almond and grapeseed oils for those who prefer a lighter, faster-absorbing texture while still enjoying the nourishment of almond oil.

Both are versatile, soothing, and perfectly suited for full-body massage or daily ritual use.

 

Order your bespoke Body oil from here

 

🌿 Safe Dilution and Balance

Every custom blend I create begins with the right dilution.

For face oils, essential oils are usually kept around 1% (about 6 drops per 20 ml of carrier oil).

For body oils, I typically blend around 2–3%, though occasionally up to 5% when a stronger effect is desired — always adjusted to your skin type, age, and sensitivity.

When creating blends for children, pregnant women, or older adults, I use lower dilutions, selecting only the mildest and safest essential oils suitable for their stage of life and wellbeing.

This ensures every product remains both effective and gentle, allowing aromatherapy to be safely enjoyed by everyone.

 

✨ Closing Thoughts

Carrier oils may not have the aromatic beauty of essential oils, but they hold their own quiet strength — the warmth, nourishment, and foundation that make every blend work in harmony.

When thoughtfully chosen and blended, they turn aromatherapy into a truly holistic ritual — connecting scent, touch, and self-care in one simple bottle.