Natural skin care can be easy once you understand some basics about oils and skin type. Here’s a quick list of the 7 best carrier oils for beautiful radiant skin.
I’ve been obsessed with natural skin care ever since I began learning how many toxic chemicals are lurking in commercial skincare products. I ditched all of the expensive creams and lotions and started making my own face and skin oils. My DIY Hydrating Face Oil and Anti-Aging Face Serum have become some of the most popular DIY recipes that I have shared.
In the process, I have had an opportunity to experiment and learn about some great carrier oils that can be wonderfully healing and nourishing for your skin.
WHAT IS A CARRIER OIL?
A carrier oil is usually a plant-based oil extracted from a nut or a seed used to moisturize and heal the skin. It can be used alone or in combination with other oils to find just the right formula for your skin type. High quality essential oils are often added to carrier oils to provide specific therapeutic effects for the skin. See my list of Best Essential Oils for Your Skin Type.
These carrier oils are a wonderful way to keep your face looking healthy and hydrated because they give your skin exactly what it wants: healthy oils. Natural oils (because they do not contain any added fillers or chemicals) absorb easily into the skin, protecting the skin’s lipid barrier and preventing moisture from evaporating out of the skin. The top layer of your skin, called the stratum corneum, is composed of dead skin cells held together by lipids (or oils.) Keeping this layer constantly supplied with healthy oils will protect your skin from the elements and will help your skin to have a beautiful healthy, moisturized glow.
Finding the best oil combination for your skin type can help balance oil production, improve the texture of your skin, and help reduce the signs of aging. With the correct oil for your skin type, clogged pores and oily skin is not an issue. Clogged pores are a result of synthetic oils or oils that are too heavy for your skin (comedogenic.)
7 BEST CARRIER OILS FOR RADIANT SKIN
1. Jojoba Oil:
The most common oil that I recommend is jojoba oil because it is healing and moisturizing for all skin types. Even though it looks and feels just like an oil, it is actually a liquid wax ester made from expeller-pressed jojoba seeds. Jojoba oil is very similar to the sebum in human skin, and the oil can dissolve sebum and carry ingredients deep into the skin. It is very light-weight absorbs quickly into the skin. It also has anti-inflammatory properties.
If you struggle with oily skin, jojoba oil is a good option as it will help to dissolve sebum and will carry healing essential oils deep into the pores without leaving our feeling oily or greasy.
2. Rose Hip Seed Oil:
Rose Hip Seed Oil is one of my favorite carrier oils. It is good for dry, aging skin because it is deeply nourishing and regenerating. It is known for it’s firming properties and may improve skin elasticity. Rose hip seed oil is high in essential fatty acids and softens and smooths out the skin beautifully. It improves the texture of your skin and calms redness and inflammation. It can also help reduce scarring.
3. Argan Oil:
Argan oil is pressed from the nut of the fruit of the Argan Tree, which is only found in Morocco. Because of the high levels of vitamin E /tocopherols (antioxidants) and saponins (skin-softening agents), argan oil is a wonderful oil for anti-aging. It can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles by restoring the skin`s hydro-lipid layer. It has also been shown to have a tightening effect on the skin. I love this oil because it absorbs so nicely into my skin and does not leave an oily residue.
4. Tamanu Oil:
Tamanu Oil is the oil I recommend for acne-prone skin. It is rich in fatty acids and has antioxidant and antibacterial properties. It is incredibly healing for irritated/inflamed skin, sunburns, scars, and stretchmarks. A little of this oil goes a long way.
5. Evening Primerose Oil
Evening Primrose Oil is a wonderful oil suitable for several skin types. It contains a high concentration of a fatty acid called GLA (gamma-linolenic acid.) Linoleic acid been shown to reduce clogged pores by dissolving sebum and other impurities in the pores. This makes it a good choice for oily and acne-prone skin. The fatty acids in evening prime rose oil also contain anti-inflammatory properties which help reduce redness and irritation.
Evening prime rose oil can be used on dry aging skin as well. The gamma-linoleic acid and other nutrients in this oil are essential for cell structure and improve the elasticity of the skin. It is extremely moisturizing, reduces wrinkles and dryness, encourages regeneration of skin cells and keeps skin soft. It has also been used to treat skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea.
6. Avocado Oil:
Avocado Oil is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins A, D and E and can be used as a wonderful overall moisturizer. Rich in antioxidants, it can be wonderful for soothing inflammation. It has a high sterolin content. Sterolins are compounds which are anti-inflammatory making avocado oil helpful in healing sun damage and age spots, as well as inflammatory skin conditions like blemishes and eczema.
7. Olive Oil:
Olive oil is a no-brainer as most of us already have some in the kitchen. I have used in many times in my face oils. Olive oil is high in oleic acid (a monosaturated fatty acid), making it perfect for drier skin. It is a heavier oil that dries a bit more slowly. Just be aware that 2/3 of olive oils tested in the US market were found to be adulterated. Be sure to use only a trusted, good quality olive oil. Kasandrinos is the only olive oil in my kitchen. Always organic. Never adulterated.
HOW TO CHOOSE A CARRIER OIL:
I recommend starting with a base of jojoba oil and adding another oil that is suited for your skin type. For example, I have dry skin so I like to add Argan and Rose Hip Seed oils. If you have acne-prone skin, you could create a combination of jojoba and tamanu oil. Got combination skin? Try jojoba and argan. It’s all about finding what works for your skin.
It may take a bit of experimentation to find just the right combination for your personal skin type. I usually start with an 80% ratio of jojoba and 20% of another oil specific for my skin type. You can adjust this ratio as needed. Several carrier oils can be combined to get the perfect combination.
And quality does matter. I recommend buying the best quality oils that you can find. Your skin is your biggest organ, and everything you put on it absorbs directly into your bloodstream. The best oils are cold-pressed, pure, and unrefined oil with no additives.
HOW TO ADD ESSENTIAL OILS TO YOUR SKIN OILS
Essential oils boost the healing quality to your skin oils. You can target specific skin issues by adding a few drops of 100% pure essential oil specific to your skin type. Essential oils have been used on the skin for centuries for their regenerating and toning properties. They absorb easily into the skin, helping to improve the feel, texture, and look of the skin. Check out Best Essential Oils for Your Skin Type.
Please note that I am only talking about good quakity essential oils. There is no standard for essential oils, and so many of the oils you find may be adulterated and can actually contain harmful ingredients.
My essential oil of choice is Young Living Essential Oils. They own their farms and they run a very tight supply chain. I trust their essential oils above all others because they are pure and unadulterated and are manufactured for therapeutic use not just for smell.
I am a wholesale member, meaning that I save 24% on all of my essential oils. Read more here about why I choose Young Living.
WANT TO LEARN MORE? Sign up for my FREE 10 Day Essential Oils E-Course. Get 10 lessons delivered right to your inbox. Sign up HERE.
WANT TO KNOW MORE ABOUT HEALTHY SKIN?
Be sure to check out my post on 6 Tips for Naturally Healthy Skin.
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What about coconut oil is that a good carrier oil for myrrh,frankincense and lavender? I have very dry skin with occasional breakouts I would be so happy to hear back thanks,
Hi, there! I would not recommend coconut oil for skin that is prone to break outs. I feel like it can make it worse.
Hi, I am 56 and have very bad sun damaged skin, would love to start over and repair. What would be the best for lightening dark spots, and tighten wrinkley skin on legs, arms, neck and face. I have been reading about frankincense and I was wondering what you may recommend to go with it. From what I read above would you combine it with rose hip oil and evening prim rose? What would you do? Where would you start. Lastly could I also combine some of he above for a lotion?
Essential oils are wonderful for the skin. Take a look here and see what I recommend —–> http://www.savorylotus.com/best-essential-oils-for-your-skin-type/
You can combine any carrier oils to make a blend that best suits your needs. You can see the 2 face oils that make for myself here to see what I like —->
http://www.savorylotus.com/diy-anti-aging-face-serum/
http://www.savorylotus.com/diy-hydrating-face-oil/
I don’t have a lot of experience making lotions. I am more of an oil girl. But you can definitely use anything that I recommend to make lotions as well. I would love to hear what you do. 🙂
Tamanu oil!
Just online surfing with my continues need to learn and know more about oils and natural skin care. Sounds like we started the same fashion. Not wanting all the extra stuff in our beauty products. So I wanted to stop and agree that Rose Hips oil works, I’ve been using both argan and rose hips on my face for almost 2 months now. The change in my face and skin has been noticed by others so to cosign this article, yes natural does work. All it took me was some research on natural vs store brand ingredients, you will find plants grown in the sun, on trees, wild or greenhouse, with no pesticides have the best results for your skin and health.
I love essential oils! Unfortunately, my skin is too sensitive for them. I use the pure, therapeutic grade essential oils, but for mainly for my hair/scalp and for making cleaning products. I use a mix of carrier oils for my skin and that works wonders!
Hi. What essential oils do you use for your hair and scalp? How often and for what purpose? I’m tired of using shampoo which mostly contain chemicals but I need another option.
Hi, great info on essential oils! could you please recommend something for under bags and dark circles. I used so many eye creams but no effects.
Hi, there! The first thing that comes to mind is food sensitivities. Chinese Medicine says dark circles under the eyes are to relate to kidney deficiency and bowel congestion (especially if puffiness is also present). According to Western facial diagnosis it may be an indication of iron deficiency, wheat or gluten intolerance and adrenal fatigue (stress and nervousness). My suggestion would be to work with a functional medicine practitioner or naturopath to explore if there are some gut issues going on. Here is a bit of info on that : http://allergiesandyourgut.com/2015/07/12/dark-circles-under-your-eyes-improve-your-gut-bacteria/
Hope that helps! 🙂
Hi I found your blog so interesting! I want to make my own serum! However I want your recommendations
1. Is there a rule on how many oils you can blend together?
2. I tried making my own lotion (shea butter+ coconut oil + lavender + jojoba oil + geranium + vitamin E) but it’s so greasy, what should I do?
3. For the serum how many oils can I mix in? What are your recommendations ( I love rose, geranium and lavender)
4. Is it not recommended to mix two carrier oil together?
Hi, Belle!
1. You can blend as many oils together as you wan – both carrier oils and essential oils.
2. I’m not an expert at making lotions. But you could make another batch and leave out the oil and then add your first batch to it. Or dilute the oily batch you made with some beeswax to change the texture.
3. You can use as many oils as you like. I love Rose too!
4. You can mix carrier oils. No problem! 🙂
Hope that helps!
Hi Katja,
Recently i bought Morocco oil . Its blends with orange, ylang ylang, patchouli, jasmine, rose, cardamon, bergamot, sandal wood and clove. Plan to use as a moisterizer for face. Could you please suggest me the the carrier oil for it. It’s a 12ml bottle can I mix it one shot in bigger carrier oil bottle or mix as per need on monthly basis? I’m a newbee for essential oil hope you can guide. Thanks
You will have to experiment to see what works on your skin. Starting with a base of jojoba oil is a good place to start. I like to make small batches so I can see how my skin reacts. 🙂
Argon oil
Adding a small amount of arrow root powder will take the greasiness away from your homemade lotions
Hi,Katja!
I already have shea butter,vitamin E and Jojoba oil.I want to start as safe as possible.I have a mixed type of skin but i read numerous articles,blogs,videos and it seems like Jojoba and sweet almond oil are the most recommended for any type of skin.I wanted to try to add olive oil and honey maybe for moisture but im not shure if its okay to use them both (im more quastionable about honey).
For body i want to try cocoa butter and vitamin E,should i add coconut oil also?
The only way to know what your skin likes is to experiment, especially with face oils. See how your skin reacts. Olive and coconut oil can be a bit heavy for some people and may cause clogged pores. Other people swear by them. I have used honey on my skin, but never in a lotion or oil. I use it as a face mask. I just add a drop or 2 of essential oil and put it right on my skin for 15-20 minutes. Hope that helps. 🙂
Hi, Katha
I am looking for a body massage oil recipe for dry skin, stretch marks and uneven skin tone. I am male and 25 yrs old .
Would you recommend me something?
You can use many different oils for massage. All of the oils I recommended are good for dry skin. Coconut oil is great as well for massage. As far as stretch marks and uneven skin tone go, you may consider adding some essential oils to those body areas. You can get some ideas about essential oils and skin type here:
http://www.savorylotus.com/best-essential-oils-for-your-skin-type/
Hope that helps.
Hi I’m 33 and have combination skin but have breakouts on my cheeks and jawline only. Tho my skin gets really dry during winter.. which oils would you rocommend? Tour advice would be appreciated
HI, there! Face oils are so personal. Everyone reacts differently. I would say use jojoba for a base. It works for almost everyone. You can experiment with small amounts of other oils to see what works. I find that minimal products on break out prone skin works best. Have you ever used raw honey to clean and moisturize the areas that are prone to break out? It’s gentle and effective.
Do you recommend any blend of oils for chronic body itching? It appears to be an internal anomaly. I had only to Google it to discover that doctors seem to be mystified by this condition. It is extremely debilitating, and inhibits restful sleep; so any advice would be greatly appreciated 🙂
Hi, there! It’s hard to recommend an oil without knowing what the cause is. If it is internal, have you thought about histamine intolerance? That can make your skin very itchy. Just a thought. For topical use, there are some very calming oils. Lavender. Roman Chamomile. Helichrysum. Myrrh. Sandalwood. Palmarosa. Hope that helps.
Hi , i started using the Tamanu oil because i have acne prone skin as per your recommendation, but it makes me break out . Is that normal ?
Everybody reacts differently. You just have to experiment to see what works for you. Many people find Tamanu oil great for acne prone skin. Sometime you have to let your skin adjust. And sometimes you need to mix in other oils to find the right combo. Hope that helps.
Hi! Which oil is best to prevent stretchmarks in pregnant women?
The 2 oils that come to mind for that are coconut oil and rose hip oil. I would also recommend adding collagen into your diet to help with skin integrity. Hope that helps. 🙂
I was hoping someone could help me.All of my oils are staying oily on my skinny and leaving it slick feeling. I even mixed it with vitamin E lotion and it still leaves like a residue on my face. I have most of the main ones except avocado and jojoba. I really want to make hemp my main one, and sweet almond oil but they both leave my face slick. Am I doing something wrong? Any advice is welcome,thank you
Everyone’s skin is different. You will just have to experiment until you find the right one. You may just prefer a drier oil. Jojoba tends to absorb nicely and isn’t as oily as some oils. Some people have drier skin and really like more oils.
Hi Katja!
I just started with oil game and I’m confused.
I’ve been researching everything,but still don’t know. ? I don’t want to use any carrier oil for now,as I have Jasmin face oil already,my skin is very dry and sensitive. My question is can I mix few drops of that face oil with Namibian myrr essential oil as my daily skin care? Or I really need to mix with normal carrier oils? Thank you so much!
Everybody’s skin is different. I use carrier oils as it is usually too strong to add straight EO to my skin. You usually only need a few drops of EO so it could be wasteful if you don’t use carrier oil. The carrier oil helps the EO spread all over. Hope that helps.
Hi Katja,
Thank you so much for the information you’ve provided regarding carrier oils for skin. My question is what is a good substitute as a base starting point to replace the jojoba oil? Jojoba oil and my skin don’t get along.
Claire =)
Hi, Claire. You will have to experiment a bit to figure out what your skin likes. Maybe a mix of several oils. Some people really like almond oil. I don’t have much experience with it, but you could check it out.
Hi katja… Please could i safely mix up all these carrier oils together like rosehip seed, argan, jojoba, grapeseed, avocado,and then oil extract like evening primrose with some essential oils for face serum for a normal skin type but a bit prone to acne. Thank you very much for these useful information u have shared with us… Much Love!!!
You can mix any of the oils that you like. You will just have to experiment to see what your skin likes. 🙂
Where would I start, as I already have an extremely oily face? I tend to shy away from using oil on my face, for obvious reasons. Although, my skin is aging my face is still so oily! Any thoughts? Please and thank you. Dawn
Hi Katya
My daughter has caught scabies from school. I’ve been using tea tree oil with almond oil. Doesn’t seem to be working. Can you recommend a better mix. Also used clove oil buy it irritates her skin. Thank you so much.
Sorry to hear that. I don’t have any experience getting rid of scabies. Sorry. Please report back if you find something that works.
My son caught them in school. Nasty little buggers. My pediatrician wrote a prescription for, I believe it was called Quell lotion. You only apply it once, and they die and the little bump on her skin will eventually go away. Hope it helps. Dawn?
There were so many ads on this page it was impossible to scroll, therefore I don’t believe a damn word you wrote because obviously, all you care about are ads.
Wow! I am always amazed at how bold people are online. My entire blog is accessible for FREE. Every recipe and picture. Yes, I do have ads but that is how I make a living. Next time you decide to express an opinion, maybe try being a bit kinder. I am a human being with feeling who works hard at what I do. If the ads on my site bother, you are welcome to just click away. But being mean and unkind sucks. 🙂
Thank you Katja!!
Hi Ketja
Is it ok to use grass fed cow ghee (clarified butter) as carrier oil or to mix it with carrier oil. As it is highly rich in omega 6 and 9 fatty acids and vitamin A,D, E and K.
I haven’t tried ghee as a carrier oil. The issue I see with it is that it gets solid as it cools.
Hi Katja I need some help. I bought Apricot kernel carrier oil as well as 100% Bergamot and Ylang and ylang 100% pure oils and don’t know what I do either. Regards Tanya
I’m not exactly clear on what you are asking?
HI this was a great writup i did order a few oils for myself-
My son has a acne prone skin mostly on his back (not face) what would be the best mix of oils for him-
Here’s some suggestions:
https://www.youngliving.com/blog/acne-treatment-and-essential-oils/ Hope that helps. 🙂
My kid 6 year old, having issue of dry skin severe when he play in closed swimming pool, Please suugest best combination to get rid of dry skin issue.
Hi, there! My daughter gets dry skin from swimming in the summer as well. I just rub her down with coconut oil or olive oil. Her skin loves it.
How about grapeseed oil as a carrier?
I don’t have any experience with grapeseed oil, so I can’t really say. 🙂
Hi, can we use carrier oils alone , without addition of any essential oil?
Thanks
Of course! 🙂 Plain oils are very good for your skin as well.
Thank you!!! This was very helpful! Just started a skin care line and appreciate all of the info!!!
hi ms katja.
just want to ask if it is safe to use grapeseed oil as a base and add rosehip and/or avocado oil. i have mix skin type. also, is rosehip oil safe to use in the daytime since it contains vitamin A.
thank you very much.
I’m not a big fan of grapeseed oil. Just my personal opinion.
I was searching for base oils for dry skin and came across this post. I just started making my own face cream a few weeks ago and am so happy. This was really useful information, thank you