10 Best Carrier Oils for Herbal-Infused Skincare: Choose the Right One for Your Skin Type and Concerns
In making your own herbal-infused oils and your natural wellness products, you have the choice of which carrier oil is best for your face and body. Choosing the right one depends on your skin type, concerns, and personal preference. There are many carrier oils out there that can be infused with herbs, resulting in an enriched oil for your natural wellness needs. Some I like to use are:
Avocado Oil (best for body):
Rich in antioxidants, which help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals
Contains vitamin E, which is known to improve skin health and reduce inflammation
High in fatty acids, which can help to moisturize and nourish the skin
Can help to improve the skin's elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Argan Oil (best for face):
Contains high levels of vitamin E, which can help to improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Rich in fatty acids, which can help to moisturize and nourish the skin
Has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce redness and irritation
May help to improve the skin's barrier function, which can lead to better hydration and protection against environmental damage
Hemp Oil (best for body):
Rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which can help to improve skin health and reduce inflammation
Has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce redness and irritation
Can help to regulate oil production in the skin, which may be beneficial for people with acne-prone skin
May help to improve the skin's barrier function, which can lead to better hydration and protection against environmental damage
Marula Oil (best for face):
Contains high levels of antioxidants, which can help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals
Rich in fatty acids, which can help to moisturize and nourish the skin
Has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce redness and irritation
Can help to improve the skin's elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Evening Primrose Oil (best for body):
Contains high levels of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an essential fatty acid that can help to reduce inflammation and improve skin health
Specific for inflammatory conditions of the skin, such as eczema and psoriasis, due to its anti-inflammatory properties
Helps to prevent aging of the skin by improving skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Rich in antioxidants, which can protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals
Great for dry and sensitive skin due to its moisturizing and nourishing properties
Can be added to shampoos and conditioners to help with dry, scaling scalp and dandruff.
Jojoba Oil (best for face):
Contains high levels of vitamin E and other antioxidants, which can help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals
Rich in fatty acids, including omega-9 and omega-6, which can help to moisturize and nourish the skin
Has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce redness and irritation
Can help to improve the skin's elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Virgin Coconut Oil (best for body):
Contains lauric acid, a fatty acid with antimicrobial properties that can help protect against harmful microorganisms on the skin
Has emollient properties that can help to moisturize and soften the skin, making it a popular ingredient in many skincare products
Contains antioxidants that can help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals and environmental stressors
Can help to improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
May have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and calm irritated skin
Is non-comedogenic, meaning it's less likely to clog pores and cause breakouts compared to other oils
Extra Virgin Olive Oil (best for body):
Contains oleic acid, a monounsaturated fatty acid that can deeply moisturize and nourish the skin, leaving it soft and supple
Rich in antioxidants such as vitamin E and polyphenols, which can help protect the skin from oxidative stress and premature aging
Has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and calm irritated or inflamed skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis
May support skin barrier function and enhance moisture retention, promoting overall skin health and resilience
Is non-comedogenic and lightweight, making it suitable for all skin types
Prickly Pear Seed Oil (best for face):
Contains high levels of vitamin E and antioxidants, which can help protect the skin from free radical damage and environmental stressors, promoting a youthful and radiant complexion
Rich in essential fatty acids, including linoleic acid and oleic acid, which can deeply hydrate and nourish the skin, leaving it soft, smooth, and moisturized
Has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce redness, irritation, and inflammation, making it suitable for sensitive or reactive skin types
May help to improve skin tone and texture, minimize the appearance of dark spots, and promote a more even complexion
Has a lightweight and non-greasy texture that absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving behind a dewy, glowing finish
Is non-comedogenic and suitable for all skin types, including dry, oily, combination, and acne-prone skin
Baobab Oil (best for face):
Rich in vitamins A, D, and E, as well as antioxidants, which can help nourish and protect the delicate skin on the face, promoting a healthy and youthful complexion
Contains omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9 fatty acids, which can deeply moisturize and hydrate the skin, reducing dryness and leaving it soft, smooth, and supple
Has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and calm irritated or inflamed skin, making it suitable for sensitive or reactive skin types
May help improve skin tone and texture, minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and promote a more radiant and even complexion
Has a lightweight and non-greasy texture that absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving it feeling hydrated and revitalized without clogging pores
Is versatile and can be used in a facial salve, serum, or as is as a spot treatment to address specific skincare concerns
In conclusion, choosing the right carrier oil for your herbal-infused oils and natural wellness products is crucial for optimal skin health and will enhance the product you’re making. Avocado oil, argan oil, hemp oil, marula oil, evening primrose oil, jojoba oil, and coconut oil are some excellent choices to consider, depending on your skin type and concerns. These oils are enriched with various beneficial properties such as antioxidants, anti-inflammatory agents, and moisturizing properties, which can help to improve skin health and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Ultimately, by selecting the right carrier oil, you can create a natural wellness product that is tailored to your specific needs and preferences, promoting healthy, nourished, and glowing skin.
