Carrier oils

Base (vegetable) oils

Base oils, sometimes called “carrier” oils or “bases,” are widely used in aromatherapy and natural skin and hair care recipes. They have the unique ability to safely dilute the potency of essential oils before they are applied to the skin (known as topical application).

Although most base oils are obtained by pressing nuts and seeds, there are a few exceptions – coconut oil, for example, is extracted from its “copra” (the white inner “flesh”), and jojoba oil, which is actually a liquid wax, is obtained from a shrub with leathery leaves.

Base oil extraction processes

Cold pressing – A technology in which the oil is extracted through strong pressure. This method preserves the maximum amount of beneficial substances, as well as their durability. High-quality base oils are cold-pressed, without additional processing.

Pressing with an expeller – A method of extracting oil at higher temperatures. Used when the nuts or seeds are harder. The oils are often then refined, flavored, and bleached.

Maceration in oil – Used for plant products that do not contain enough oil to be processed by pressing. This means soaking flowers or herbs in a base oil (most often sunflower or olive), which extracts their aroma and medicinal properties. Calendula oil, for example, is only obtained this way.

Solvent extraction – A method used with both essential and carrier oils. It involves soaking the raw material in a solvent, such as ethanol.

Base oils usually have no odor or, if they do, it is mild and characteristic (often given by saturated fatty acids), with a faint nutty aroma. They are divided into:

oils with a harder consistencythat retain their shape at room temperature – coconut, cocoa, mango butter, palm oil
oils with a liquid consistency – almond, argan, rosehip oil, grape seed, apricot kernel, etc.

Carrier oils contain skin-restoring saturated fatty acids (Omega-3, 6, 9, etc.), vitamins and minerals that have valuable nourishing and moisturizing properties. They contribute to a feeling of younger, healthier and fresher hair and skin. Tocopherols, like natural vitamin E, act as natural preservatives.

Some carrier oils are highly nutritious and too rich to be used alone (e.g. evening primrose oil), while others have a strong scent. In these cases, they can be blended with other plant oils to reduce their intensity (e.g. richer oils combined with lighter ones).

Application of base oils

Facial care: Apply a small amount of oil to cleansed skin, previously moistened with toner, hydrosol or floral water.

Body care: After a bath or shower, apply oil to damp skin and massage well. You can add a few drops of essential oil with your favorite scent.

Hair care: Apply oil to hair and scalp and leave on for at least 30 minutes or overnight. Wash with a gentle, natural shampoo. For dry ends, rub a little oil between your palms and apply.

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