How to Choose the Best Natural Carrier Oils for Your Skin Type
Carrier oils, sometimes called base oils, are oils derived from seeds, nuts, beans, fruits, and vegetables. They’re called base oils because other ingredients are usually added to them, although they can be used alone or in combination. They form the base of natural skincare formulas like salves, lotions, creams, massage oils, and even soap. Essential oils, which are too concentrated for direct application, are often diluted in these carrier oils.
What to Know Before Choosing a Carrier Oil
To choose the right carrier oil, you’ll need to know your skin type. Each oil has different properties and may not be beneficial for all skin types. Also, choose minimally processed oils. The best oils are organic, naturally extracted, and not exposed to high heat. Non-organic oils may come from GMOs or be contaminated with pesticides.
Understanding Processing Methods
Label terms can help you determine oil quality, though they aren’t always regulated in the U.S. When in doubt, call the manufacturer. Here's what the common terms mean:
• Cold Pressed: Extracted using low heat (80-90°F). Examples: avocado, olive, pumpkin.
• Expeller Pressed: Pressed mechanically with some frictional heat (120-125°F).
• Chemically Extracted: Often uses hexane, a petroleum-based solvent—avoid these.
• Unrefined: Simply filtered; retains color and scent.
• Partially Refined: Odor or color reduced to stabilize shelf life.
• Refined: Exposed to extreme temperatures (-30°F to 450°F).
Now that you know what to look for, let’s break down the best oils for each skin type and compare their properties.
CARRIER OIL COMPARISON CHART
|
Oil |
Best For Skin Type |
Viscosity |
Penetration Speed |
Key Components |
|
Almond |
All |
Light to Medium |
Moderate |
70% Oleic, 20% Linoleic Acid |
|
Apricot Kernel |
All, especially sensitive |
Light |
Fast |
34% Linoleic Acid |
|
Argan |
All |
Light |
Fast |
Non-greasy, Anti-aging, Vitamin E |
|
Avocado |
Dry, Sensitive, Eczema |
Heavy |
Moderate |
Carotenoids, 20% Linoleic, 12% Palmitoleic Acid |
|
Baobab |
Dry, Damaged, Mature |
Medium |
Moderate |
Vitamins A, D, E, F; Omega-3, 6, 9 |
|
Black Cumin Seed |
Acne-prone, Inflamed, Sensitive |
Medium |
Moderate |
Thymoquinone, Omega-6 and 9 |
|
Borage |
Eczema, Sensitive, Mature |
Light |
Fast |
25% GLA, Use in 10% Dilution |
|
Camelina |
Dry, Mature, Sensitive Skin |
Medium |
Moderate |
High in ALA, Omega-3 Rich |
|
Castor |
Dry Patches, Scalp, Lashes |
Very Thick |
Slow |
High in Ricinoleic Acid |
|
Coconut |
Normal, Dry |
Light |
Fast |
High in Lauric Acid, Comedogenic |
|
Evening Primrose |
Eczema, Psoriasis, Damaged |
Light |
Fast |
10% GLA, Use in 10% Dilution |
|
Grapeseed |
All, Oily |
Light |
Fast |
76% Linoleic Acid, Collagen Support |
|
Hemp Seed |
Oily, Acne-prone, Combo |
Light |
Fast |
60% Linoleic, 20% ALA, GLA |
|
Jojoba |
All, esp. Acne/Inflamed |
Medium |
Fast |
Technically a wax, Regenerative |
|
Macadamia |
Sensitive, Damaged, Mature |
Light to Medium |
Moderate |
60% Oleic, 20% Palmitoleic, Squalene |
|
Meadowfoam Seed |
All, esp. Mature |
Medium |
Slow |
Long-chain FAs, Extremely Stable |
|
Olive |
Normal, Dry, Mature |
Moderately Heavy |
Moderate |
70% Oleic, Emollient, Squalene |
|
Pomegranate Seed |
Aging, Inflamed, Dry |
Medium |
Moderate |
Punicic Acid (Omega-5) |
|
Rosehip |
Sensitive, Damaged, Mature |
Light to Medium |
Fast |
40% ALA + Linoleic, Vitamins A, C, E |
|
Sesame |
Normal to Dry |
Moderate |
Moderate |
42% Linoleic, Anti-bacterial, SPF |
|
Soybean |
All |
Light |
Fast |
50% Linoleic, High in Lecithin |
|
Sunflower |
All |
Light to Medium |
Fast to Moderate |
Vitamin E, 60% Linoleic |
|
Tamanu |
Acne-prone, Scars, Sensitive |
Medium to Heavy |
Slow to Moderate |
Calophyllolide, Oleic & Linoleic |
|
Watermelon Seed |
Oily, Acne-prone |
Light |
Fast |
Rich in Linoleic, Non-comedogenic |
Why We Choose Organic, Cold-Pressed Carrier Oils
At Be Green Bath and Body, we are committed to sustainability and purity. That's why we use as many organic, cold-pressed carrier oils in our products as possible. Cold-press extraction helps maintain the integrity of the oils, preserving their nutrients, antioxidants, and vitamins. These minimally processed oils provide maximum benefits without harsh chemicals or extreme heat.
Experience the Difference with Be Green Bath and Body
Our carrier oils are carefully selected to nurture, hydrate, and protect your skin with the natural goodness of the earth. Whether you have dry, sensitive, oily, or aging skin, our products provide the perfect blend of essential nutrients to leave your skin feeling soft, radiant, and nourished.
Nourish your skin naturally with Be Green Bath and Body today!