Carrier oils are usually overlooked because they don’t contain the therapeutic constituents of other essential oils, but they can play an indispensable companion of topically applied oils. Let’s take a closer look at these carriers and why they deserve a place on the shelf of anyone who uses and loves essential oils.
Carrier oils are naturally derived from vegetarian sources and have a neutral smell. They aren’t volatile like essential oils, which makes them an excellent medium for dilution and application.
Vegetable shortening, butter, and margarine are best left in the kitchen—they’re not intended for topical use. Mineral oil and other petroleum derivatives like petroleum jelly should also not be used as carrier oils.
Essential oils are volatile, which means they evaporate rapidly and contain the natural smell and characteristics of the plant. This can make them too strong to apply undiluted. Carrier oils do not evaporate or have a strong aroma, making them the perfect pair for diluting especially strong essential oils—reducing the concentration of the essential oil without altering its therapeutic qualities. When you dilute an essential oil with a carrier oil, you can also control its concentration before applying.
Like other substances that are high in fat, carrier oils have a limited shelf life, meaning that eventually they can go bad. Depending on the type, oils with a short shelf life should typically be used within six months, while oils with a longer shelf life may stay good for up to a year. It’s important to store oils in their original air-tight containers in a cool, dark place, such as the pantry, to maximize shelf life.
Carrier oils can vary widely in their consistency, absorption, aroma, shelf life, and other characteristics. Carrier oils can be blended to change or combine their properties, so you can mix and match until you find the blend that’s just right for you!
**Caution: May cause a reaction to those with nut allergies.
*Caution: May cause a reaction to those with nut allergies.
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What is the shelf life of Young Living's V-6?
Hi Hillary, Based on past testing results, the shelf life of V-6™ is approximately 2 years. However, we are currently running additional stability testing to verify the shelf life of this specific product. Thanks for stopping by with your question!
I use coconut oil v6 and shea butter. I love all 3.
Do essential oils work better with a carrier oil? Meaning stay on the skin longer without evaporating.
Hi Lynn, Essential oils will retain their therapeutic value whether used neat (no dilution) or with a carrier oil. Carrier oils do not evaporate and can provide the added bonus of moisturizing skin! We recommend following the individual oil bottle label for dilution instructions.
Is there a dilution chart?
Hi Kim, When using essential oils with carrier oils, please refer to the individual bottle label for dilution and usage instructions. Further dilution may be necessary for sensitivity or preference. Thanks for stopping by with your question!
Wondering if anyone has tried mustard seed oil as a carrier oil?
Okay. I'm starting to understand carrier oils. Here's my biggest question: I have coconut oil. It is a solid. Should I melt it before using it as a carrier pil?
Hi Frances, Great question. To get the correct dilution ratios, we would suggest liquifying the coconut oil before using with essential oils. Thanks for stopping by with your question.
I have used Shea Butter, mango butter, and coconut oil. Have cocoa butter but haven't tried it yet. Fractionated coconut oil for roll on.
Hi I am new to young living products. Can i use coconut oil (cold processed by centrifugal extraction) as a carrier oil to mix with other essential oils in a roll on?
Hi Jerica, Welcome to the Young Living family! Coconut oil is an excellent choice for a carrier oil in a roll on!
I have used Argan oil with various oils in a roll on. What do you think of Argan oil?
I love argon oil. I use it in my face serum and hair serum. Non-comedogenic and absorbs well into skin
Hello
What kind of coconut oil is to be used in rollers? The type I have is solid at room temperature.
Fractionated Coconut Oil