Which Carrier Oil?
We have all heard about the healing power and versatility of essential oils. Essential oils should never be applied to the skin without a base oil to avoid irritation or burns. The base or carrier oil acts as a vehicle and helps to improve the synergy of essential oil blends. This means that it allows each ingredient to work even better together so that it is as effective as possible.
There are dozens of carrier oils which each feel different when applied to the skin and hair. This helps to vary massage treatments and product experiences. There is a plethora of information available online but it can be confusing when deciding which carrier oil to use.
In this blog I share with you some of my favourite carrier oils and their benefits for skin and hair care.
Types of carrier oils
Sweet Almond Oil
Sweet Almond oil is a thick, skin smoothing oil which feels sensuous when applied to the skin. This is good for dry skin as it takes long to absorb into the skin than some other carrier oils. However this is not suitable for nut allergy sufferers.
Jojoba Oil
This is a light oil which mimics the sebum that our skin produces. It therefore feels very natural and I none-greasy and works well on oily skin.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a great oil for dry skin and it a super oil for hair. Fractionated coconut is liquid form at room temperate and is recommended for use in skin and hair care because it is lightweight, penetrates the skin easily and does not clog pores. Not suitable for Nut allergy sufferers.
Hemp Oil
Hemp oil is a fantastic oil for improving skin condition and is good for sensitive skin types. It is anti aging and helps with inflammation on the skin and is also excellent for hair care. It strengthens hair and is rich in Omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids that stimulates hair growth.
Castor Oil
This is a thick oil carrier oil and is best diluted with another carrier oil. This suitable for dry or sensitive skin and can also be used to cleanse the skin. It is exceptional for hair care and can be used for conditioning the hair aswell as strengthening the hair shaft. It contains ricinoleic ascid and when massaged in to the scalp it can help to promote regrowth of hair.
Argan Oil
Argan oil is light and non-sticky. It is rich in Vitamin E and contains high levels of anti-oxidants. It is an exceptional oil for conditioning the skin and has anti-aging properties. It is good for dry skin and can be used to condition and moisturise hair.
Grapeseed Oil
A light, versatile oil that absorbs easily. It has an oily texture, smooths the skin and improves elasticity. It is easy to use and can be added to other base oils to improve their consistency.
Avocado Oil
Avocado oil is has a thick consistency but can be absorbed easily. It will soften and smooths your skin and is suitable for dry or dehydrated skin but not recommended for oily skin types.
Choosing a carrier oil
When deciding on which carrier oil to use be sure to research the unique properties and do not be afraid to combine different base oils. Remember the most nutrient rich oils are unrefined, cold press of virgin or extra virgin oils. Devaiya Products are made with cold pressed and unrefined carrier oils to ensure that all products are nutrient rich and high quality. Some products contain more than one carrier oil to improve the synergy of the product.
An example of a product using a combination of carrier oils is Hair Love. Hair love contains carrier oils of hemp, coconut and castor oil each adding different benefits. Castor oil moisturises the scalp, reduces dandruff and leaves the hair smooth and shiny. Hemp oil strengthens hair, adds shine. And stimulates hair growth with omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids.
Finally Coconut oil will also help to regenerate new hair growth, softens the hair, adds shine and promotes scalp health. It is also known to prevents split ends and hair breakage. The combination of carrier oils in this product add to the effectiveness of the product which is enhanced even further with a super blend of essential oils. For further details about Hair Love read here
