Carrier

Oils

Carrier oils, otherwise known as fixed oils, are a class of non-volatile* lipid oils. They can be used to nourish the skin alone, or help dilute more potent oils (like essential oils) and ‘carry’ them to the skin.

*Non-volatile means they don’t evaporate. Essential oils, on the other hand, are volatile and thus evaporate when exposed to the air. This is why they need a base oil to anchor them and dilute their potency.

Jojoba

Jojoba is a great go-to for all skin types. It’s gentle on the skin and, due to its anti-inflammatory properties, it helps to calm dryness, redness and dermal repair. As such, it’s great for those with rosacea and even eczema. It contains various minerals and antioxidants as well as vitamins B and E. This makes it very nourishing when applied to the skin and therefore deems it a highly beneficial natural moisturizer. Multiple studies have reported how this oil helps the skin to retain moisture which, combined with the fact that it’s also got a comedogenic rating of 2 and is non-allergenic, means that it can be a great asset to your skincare routine. One quite remarkable fact about jojoba oil is that its composition mimics the sebum produced by human skin. This in itself can actually help to control sebum production on oilier skin types while hydrating drier skin types. It really is a Jack-of-all-trades oil.

Argan

Argan oil has become one of the most popular oils in skincare routines worldwide. Used for centuries, argan oil has been acknowledged the world over for its skin and hair conditioning properties. This in addition to its ability to act as a non-clogging plant-based moisturizer has seen this oil crowned as something akin to skincare royalty. It is reported to lend a hand in helping to protect and repair the skin, its healing properties stemming from the antioxidants, fatty acids and vitamins it harbors. Argan oil is notably rich in vitamin E which is known to aid in the reduction of visible stretch marks and even scars, not to mention helping to heal skin that’s suffered sun damage.

Apricot Kernel

Apricot kernel oil is a very gentle oil with great potential, especially when it comes to conditioning the skin. High in oleic acid, it also has a low comedogenic rating. It’s great as a carrier oil and also as a cleanser, assisting in breaking down any sebum and dirt on the face that may otherwise be troublesome to remove. It is slightly astringent, which is great if you’re looking for an oil that doubles as a toner.

Sweet Almond

Sweet almond oil is a very versatile oil and is suitable for almost every skin type. Some of its main benefits are being able to calm the skin and reduce irritation while boosting hydration. It’s a rich source of antioxidants, containing many skin health-boosting properties such as vitamin E, copper, magnesium and phosphorus. Though its absorption into the skin is not a fast process, it’s highly nourishing and mild on the skin, helping to safeguard the skin against not only hydration loss but also UV rays. Additionally, its ability to relieve inflammation due to the high concentration of fatty acids it contains makes it a great all-rounder, especially on drier skin types.

Grapeseed

A soothing, conditioning oil, grapeseed is known for its emollient properties. Slightly astringent, this gentle oil is also plentiful in linoleic acid which combines to help tone the skin while promoting a youthful softness. Grapeseed oil’s composition is non-greasy to the touch, sometimes referred to as silky in texture, which makes it ideal and enjoyable for all skin types including those prone to sensitivity. Its astringent effects in conjunction with its nourishing capabilities deem this oil very advantageous for blemish-prone skin, including acne sufferers. It’s sometimes used as an alternative to nut-derived oils for those with nut allergies.

Sunflower

Rich in linoleic acid, sunflower oil is a great anti-inflammatory oil used topically to treat dry skin and related conditions like eczema. It is also home to vitamin E and sesamol, both of which are recognized for their abilities in helping to slow the dermal aging process by helping to protect and rejuvenate the skin. Sunflower is a very absorbent oil and is non-comedogenic which makes it a good carrier oil or as a topical treatment for all skin types, even those prone to acne. When applied, this oil forms a protective barrier on the skin, helping it to lock in hydration and also heal wounds.

Olive

Olive oil is arguably one of the best known oils on the planet. Used primarily for cooking, it’s also able to serve as a conditioning oil when applied to the skin, elevated in status due to its regenerative effects. Though olive oil is highly nutritious, it’s known to clog pores if too much is applied to the skin and could result in breakouts and even acne. When utilizing this oil for skincare, it’s worth looking out for organic and extra virgin olive oils as these tend to contain a higher concentration of vitamins A and E. Olive oil also contains vitamins D, and K which come with their own skin benefits such as helping to rejuvenate the skin and fight free radicals.

Coconut

Coconut oil is a rich source of nourishment when applied topically or used as an ingredient in skincare products. It is said to help boost dermal elasticity, hydration and defend against free radical damage, the latter a result of its vitamin E content. Thanks to its medium-chain fatty acids, coconut oil is praised for its antimicrobial qualities. It contains lauric acid, which makes up close to 50% of the fatty acids found in this oil, and has actually been proclaimed to be a more effective treatment for acne than benzoyl peroxide. Be warned, however, as because this oil’s comedogenic rating is on the high side, treat it like benzoyl peroxide, and use it where needed and in small amounts if you suffer from breakouts, oily skin and/or acne. Also used to tackle dry skin, coconut oil is a popular choice when seeking hydration. Because of the layer it forms on the skin, it not only helps to keep out bacteria, but also preserves moisture and promotes healing.

Avocado

Avocado oil is highly nourishing to the skin. Avocado fruit has seen its praises sung for being one of the most nutrient-dense fruits on earth. The oil, which is collected from its flesh, is full of fatty acids and plant hormones, known as phytosterols, which contribute towards reinvigorating the skin and thus fight the signs of dermal aging while helping to protect the skin from sun exposure. Avocados contain vitamins A, B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B9 (folate), B6 (pyridoxine), C, D, E and K, beta carotene, and lecithin among others. Its oil contains high quantities of vitamins D and E which are instrumental in cooling the skin and supporting the healing process. When used as a carrier oil, it’s typically blended with another carrier oil to dilute its potency, but can still be applied neat to small sections of the skin.

Castor

Castor oil is typically recognizable due to its thick, sticky consistency. Because of this, it can be used as a carrier oil, but it’s more commonly applied after being diluted with another oil for easier application. Though somewhat heavy-duty, it’s actually excellent for protecting and conditioning the skin, boosting its repairing mechanisms. As such, it’s also good at preventing moisture loss, its emollient properties an asset especially for drier, more mature skin types. Multiple studies have been undertaken to investigate the effects of castor oil on skin, the outcome of which display the positive effects of its anti-inflammatory abilities in combination to the antioxidants it contains, both of which contribute to helping combat free radical damage and therefore increase the chance of impeding dermal aging.

Tamanu

Tamanu oil is a nutty, nourishing oil that has been used for hundreds of years. Rich in antioxidants, it’s great for wound healing and rejuvenating the skin. Despite its somewhat thick consistency, it’s non-greasy and is therefore ideal for most skin types from combination to dry and sensitive. It is known to aid in the reduction of stretch marks and hydrate dry, flaky skin. It acts like a barrier to the skin and is thus useful at helping it to retain moisture. As well as antioxidants, tamanu oil contains vitamin E and also calophyllolide which has been hailed for its anti-inflammatory effects on the skin. Rosacea, eczema, dark spots, acne, psoriasis, sunburn and even cold sores are all conditions reported to have been relieved by topical use of this oil.

Wheatgerm

The richest source of vitamin E in any seed-derived oil, wheatgerm oil is highly nutritious to the skin. It has been found to boost skin rejuvenation and help to repair it at a cellular level, making it a great anti-aging ally. Effective in softening the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, wheatgerm is a good source of vitamin B6, E and folic acid, all of which provide anti-aging benefits when used on the skin. Wheatgerm oil is sticky and thick in texture and is very conditioning to the skin. However, due to being highly comedogenic, it’s recommended to use wheatgerm on skin that’s prone to dryness and needs a bit of a boost in terms of vitality. It’s reported to be great at treating psoriasis and eczema due to its soothing nature, but don’t forget to use sparingly.

Sesame Seed

Anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial, sesame oil is rich in zinc which is instrumental in collagen production and thus boosts dermal elasticity. It also contains sesamol, one of the various naturally occurring phenolic compounds found in sesame seed oil that is not only said to help improve the appearance of age-related lines, but is also recognized for its prospective anticancer uses. Sesame oil’s many nutritious properties make it a real asset to overall skin health. Its high levels of vitamin E not only help to condition the skin but also protect it against harmful UV rays. Essential fatty acids like linoleic, oleic, stearic and palmitic acid give this oil an additional boost when it comes to hydration. This in conjunction to its antibacterial and non-comedogenic qualities actually make it effective on multiple skin types, but especially those prone to acne.

Neem

Neem’s innate moisturizing and highly antiseptic properties, alongside being anti-inflammatory, makes it ideal as a treatment for skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. This is attributed to the compounds nimbin and nimbidin, both of which have demonstrated their potential in soothing these issues. It’s a very conditioning oil that has been shown to calm the skin and target infections, inflammation and blemishes. Neem oil is also said to go some way towards preventing and reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, establishing its role as a natural anti-aging treatment. When using this oil, not much is needed to achieve results, so be mindful of that.

Marula

Native to southern Africa, marula oil has seen a surge of popularity in skincare due to its moisturizing, nourishing properties. Marula oil is a source of multiple anti-aging benefits including its high concentration of antioxidants, vitamins C and E, various phenolic compounds, fatty acids such as stearic, oleic, myristic and palmitic acid, and amino acids like L-arginine. These properties not only make marula oil a very conditioning oil when applied to the skin, but something of an anti-aging powerhouse. It’s non-greasy in texture and is antimicrobial which contributes to the prevention of blackheads and blemishes caused by excess sebum production. Take note, however – marula oil’s comedogenic rating is quite high, which means that it’s more likely to clog pores. With this in mind, it’s recommended for oilier skin types to apply it somewhat sparingly.

Black Seed

Black seed, or black cumin seed oil, is harvested from the seeds of a plant with a history. Black cumin seeds have long been associated with healing, and the oil that is derived from them isn’t any less coveted. Anti-inflammatory by nature, black seed oil also houses antibacterial qualities as well an impressive variety of minerals and vitamins – of which there are over one hundred. A rich source of fatty acids, black seed oil is hailed for its ability in helping to soften the visibility of age-related lines. Vitamins A, B and C that are found within are also recognized for their ability to help maintain dermal elasticity and hydration while combating free radical damage. Effective on most skin types, aided by its low comedogenic rating, this useful oil is also commended for being able to treat hyperpigmentation, unclog pores and help to moisturize and calm the skin of those who suffer from conditions like psoriasis.

Macadamia

Highly emollient and rich in vitamin E, macadamia nut oil is touted for its healing and restorative properties. Its makeup is likened to that of human sebum which actually makes it useful in helping to balance out oil production. Macadamia nuts are actually the most plentiful source of monounsaturated fats found in any nut. Also found in foods like avocados and olive oil, monounsaturated fats help to maintain hydration in the epidermis while providing the fats and ceramides that are instrumental to promoting glowing, healthy skin. Macadamia nut oil is also host to a high concentration of palmitoleic acid which is acknowledged for its role in combating cell aging.

Hazelnut

Soothing and conditioning, the oil extracted from hazelnuts is non-comedogenic and has been recognized for its calming effects, especially on sensitive or dry skin. Being a non-clogging, mildly astringent oil, it’s also utilized on oily or combination skin to help balance out sebum production and maintain hydration. Hazelnut is able to sink deeply into the skin, providing a lasting moisture boost as well as helping to repair the skin. A great source of vitamin E, hazelnut oil, alongside its phytosterols, magnesium calcium and potassium content, has a very softening effect on the skin. Such emollient and astringent qualities also go towards helping to unclog pores and rejuvenate all skin types.

Calendula

Calendula is a great healing oil that’s used to help rejuvenate and soothe the skin via the antioxidants it contains. This is why it’s often used in products primarily geared towards those prone to sensitivity. It makes for a great moisturizer, especially since it’s also mildly antiseptic which means that it not only helps to hydrate the skin but also protects it from unwanted bacteria growth. When in its extract form, calendula is said to help reduce the appearance of spider veins when added to products like skin creams.

Hemp Seed

Hemp seed oil’s composition is similar to human skin in that there is a correlation between the amount of omega-fatty acids it contains versus that which are produced by our own bodies. This makes it beneficial at helping to control oil production regardless of your skin type. Hemp is said to boost hydration and keep that moisture locked in for smooth, soothed skin – a quality that its high quantity of proteins and fatty acids can take the credit for. Such properties make it an ideal candidate for those with irritated or dry skin. To address any misconception, it should be noted that hemp seed is not the same as CBD oil. Hemp seed oil is extracted from the seeds of the hemp plant, whereas CBD originates from the flowers, leaves and stalks of the plant which are the only areas that contain cannabidiol.

Sea Buckthorn

Sea buckthorn is hailed for its rejuvenating and hydrating properties, making it a coveted skincare ingredient. The berries of this nourishing plant are reported to be richer in vitamin C than citrus fruit. To put this into context, sea buckthorn contains x15 more vitamin C than that of an orange. It’s a veritable powerhouse of nutrients that boasts minerals, plant sterols, antioxidant carotenoids, fatty acids and vitamins E, B12 and provitamin A. You can take it in either oil or supplement form. Its oil is highly concentrated, however, so when applying to the face in its neat form, you will only need a small amount. It’s reported to be very beneficial for treating skin conditions like acne due to its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial properties. This also makes it an excellent candidate for tackling oily complexions, too, as its non-greasy texture can help to balance out sebum production.

Evening Primrose

Evening primrose is known for its skin benefits. It’s classified as a light-weight, ‘dry’ oil which means that it’s able to absorb into the skin without leaving a greasy residue behind. This makes it ideal for treating both acne and as an anti-aging treatment. It’s a great oil for moisturization, especially as it contains omega-3 gamma linoleic acid and an ample amount of omega-3 linoleic acid. Omega-3 linoleic acid is hailed for its ability to help reinforce dermal membranes while omega-3 gamma linoleic acid is known for its anti-aging properties. Evening primrose is an oil that is said to help safeguard the skin against moisture loss and, as such, helps to promote soft, more hydrated skin.

Rosehip Seed

Rich in essential fatty acids, rosehip seed oil is a known skin savior. Linolenic and linoleic fatty acids are responsible for helping to strengthen the cell walls of your skin which helps to prevent water loss. Rosehip seed oil contains high concentrations of vitamin A and C, the former a source of retinol and widely known to naturally boost cell turnover. Vitamin C also plays a role in the regeneration of skin cells and is therefore a great tool that’s implemented not just to brighten the skin, but also to help prevent collagen breakdown that’s initiated by the enzyme MMP-1. Another great thing about rosehip oil is that it’s anti-inflammatory and so is a popular skin treatment when tackling conditions such as dermatitis, psoriasis, rosacea and eczema.

Borage

Borage oil, sometimes referred to as starflower oil, is one of the best sources of essential fatty acids. It contains a high concentration of gamma linoleic acid – an anti-inflammatory omega-6 fatty acid that doubles as a skin emollient. Its role as an antioxidant has been found to help calm the skin and treat troublesome skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema, among others. Borage oil is known to not only help heal the skin but aid it in retaining moisture. This in conjunction with its ability to boost the strength of skin cells and play a hand in preventing breakouts makes it a great oil for most skin types, but especially mature. It can be applied to the skin in its neat form, but is commonly diluted in other carrier oils due to the fact that it can prove to be slightly pricey.

Meadowfoam seed

Meadowfoam seed oil has a similar texture to rapeseed oil. It is home to 98% long chain fatty acids which deem it an incredibly stable oil that’s impervious to heat and oxidation. Despite being a moisturizing oil, it’s non-greasy and non-sticky in texture, which makes it ideal to be used as a skincare oil. It’s known to help safeguard the skin against moisture loss by forming a barrier that locks in hydration. This, alongside its rare combination of fatty acids and non-comedogenic makeup, means that meadowfoam is rewarding for all skin types. It is also reported to help protect the skin from UV rays, which makes it a valuable anti-aging asset in your skincare regime.