Carrier Oils 101: Benefits, Uses, and the Best Oils for Every Skin Type

VICK GARZA
5 days ago
3 min read

Updated: 4 days ago

Carrier oils are the unsung heroes of natural skincare and haircare. Though often used to dilute essential oils, they have powerful therapeutic properties of their own. In this guide, we’ll dive deep into what carrier oils are, their benefits, key nutrients, absorption rates, and how to choose the right one for your needs.

What Are Carrier Oils?

Carrier oils are plant-based oils extracted from seeds, nuts, or kernels. While they’re sometimes called "vegetable oils," not all of them come from vegetables. Another name you might hear is “fixed oils” — a nod to their non-volatile nature. Unlike essential oils, carrier oils do not evaporate quickly or have overpowering scents. This makes them perfect for mixing with essential oils or using on their own to nourish the skin and hair.

Why Use Carrier Oils?

Each carrier oil offers a unique combination of color, thickness (viscosity), absorption speed, and therapeutic compounds. These oils are naturally rich in:

Fat-soluble vitamins
Antioxidants
Essential fatty acids

When applied topically, they help moisturize, soothe irritation, promote healing, and improve the appearance and texture of skin and hair.

Key Nutrients in Carrier Oils & Their Benefits

1. Vitamins (A, B, D, E, K)

Hydrate skin for a radiant glow
Repair and regenerate skin tissue
Control acne and reduce inflammation
Smooth wrinkles and fine lines
Even out skin tone

2. Sterolins

Minimize scars and age spots
Repair sun-damaged skin
Deeply moisturize skin and hair

3. Oleic Acids

Boost skin softness and radiance
Strengthen and lengthen hair
Fight signs of aging
Eliminate dandruff
Reduce joint pain and inflammation

4. Linoleic Acids

Soothe acne and inflammation
Aid wound healing
Lock in moisture
Best for oily and acne-prone skin

5. Vitamin E

Powerful antioxidant
Delays signs of aging
Repairs damaged skin

6. Lecithin

Hydrates and soothes
Improves circulation for stronger skin and hair

7. Phytosterols

Stimulate collagen production
Heal sun damage
Firm and renew skin

8. Essential Fatty Acids

Strengthen skin’s protective barrier
Hydrate and detoxify
Reduce premature aging

9. Selenium

Antioxidant effects
Speeds up healing of skin conditions

10. Medium-Chain Triglycerides (MCTs)

Antibacterial and antifungal
Deep moisturization
Conditions scalp and boosts hair growth

11. Palmitoleic Acid

Firms and moisturizes skin
Brightens complexion
Encourages healthy hair and nail growth

Carrier Oil Absorption Rates

Understanding how quickly a carrier oil absorbs into the skin can help you choose the right one for your skincare or massage routine:

Very Fast Absorption

Light and “dry” oils. Leave no residue.

Hazelnut
Rosehip (Extra Virgin)
Abyssinian

Fast Absorption

Light and silky, great for daily use.

Apricot Kernel
Marula
Moringa
Camellia Seed
Grapeseed
Meadowfoam
Safflower
Sunflower

Average Absorption

Leave a soft, moisturized feel.

Argan
Hemp Seed
Jojoba
Babassu
Raspberry Seed
Sesame
Rice Bran
Tamanu
Walnut

Slow Absorption

Feel heavier; suitable for dry skin and overnight treatments.

Avocado (Refined, Cold-Pressed)
Flaxseed (Cold-Pressed)
Sweet Almond
Olive (Extra Virgin, Cold-Pressed)
Sunflower (Cold-Pressed)

Very Slow Absorption

Thick and rich oils that provide deep moisture.

Evening Primrose (Cold-Pressed)
Neem (Cold-Pressed)
Coconut (Refined, Cold-Pressed)
Macadamia Nut (Cold-Pressed)

How to Choose the Right Carrier Oil

Your perfect carrier oil depends on your skin or hair needs:

Concern	Ideal Oils
Dry Skin	Avocado, Sweet Almond, Olive
Oily or Acne-Prone Skin	Grapeseed, Rosehip, Hemp Seed
Sensitive Skin	Apricot Kernel, Jojoba
Aging Skin	Argan, Rosehip, Pomegranate Seed
Hair Growth & Scalp Health	Castor, Coconut, Moringa, Neem
Even Skin Tone & Scar Repair	Tamanu, Rosehip, Sea Buckthorn

Final Thoughts

Carrier oils are a versatile, nutrient-rich foundation for any natural beauty regimen. Whether used on their own or blended with essential oils, they offer a powerful way to nurture your skin and hair with ingredients straight from nature. With so many options to choose from, there's a perfect carrier oil for every skin type and concern.