With the popularity of natural skin and hair care on the rise, the variety of ingredients for formulators to choose from has become huge. As large and varied as it is, it grows constantly. So how can a formulator know which Carrier Oil to work with? What differentiates one Carrier Oil from the next? And which Oils are best for which types of formulas?
When you browse descriptions of Carrier Oils, you should look for a few key pieces of information. These main characteristics can help you figure out if an oil is right for your formula. First, determine the Oil's texture. Oils can range in texture from very light and easily absorbed, to thick, slow, and greasy. Lotions and Body Creams can use a range of textures, depending on the desired feel, and adhesion of the recipe. Sugar and Salt Scrubs often use light to medium textured Oils, while balms and ointments lean toward the heavier textured Oils. The following list highlights selected Oils from each category:
Light Oils
Medium Oils
- Walnut Oil
- Hazelnut Oil
- Avocado Oil
- Olive Oil
Heavy Oils
Another factor in an Oil's texture is it's melting point. Most Carrier Oils are liquid at room temperature, but there are several Carrier Oils that remain solid until they reach a certain temperature. Choosing an Oil with the right melting point can make or break many types of formulations, especially when product texture is important. The following list highlights some Oils that solidify at high and low melting points.
High Melting Points
Low Melting Points
- Monoi De Tahiti
- Emu Oil (Grade A, and Ultra)
- Tamanu Oil
- Neem Oil
Another thing to look for when browsing Carrier Oils is the Essential Fatty Acid content. Essential Fatty Acids are a necessary component for healthy skin, however, our bodies cannot produce them after adulthood. Supplementing Essential Fatty Acids with diet, and skin care, can help to improve the health and appearance of your skin and hair. Many natural Carrier Oils are rich in Essential Fatty Acids, but knowing which Fatty Acids to look for can be challenging. To learn more about Essential Fatty Acids, check out the following article from Beauty by the Batch: Introduction to Essential Fatty Acids.
In addition to Essential Fatty Acids, many Carrier Oils boast additional nutritive properties including vitamins and minerals. Some Oils even contain natural anti-inflammatory agents, anesthetic properties, or sun protection value. Read each description carefully, as each ingredient will have its own unique combination of special properties and characteristics.
Finally, pay attention to any notes that mention color or aroma. While most Carrier Oils yield little to no scent, there are some Oils that do have aroma, ranging from light to pungent. Often, Fruit or Berry Seed Oils will have a slightly acidic scent. This comes from their high content of Essential Fatty Acids.
Thanks, Emmy for this article. I am quite agreed that with so many choices and trends, it’s difficult to narrow down to only one or two!
Youre welcome, Mary. I hope this article helps!
My Japanese friend were telling me about Squalene oil. This seems to be known as the best carrier oil in Japan for very long time. What is your thoughts on Squalene Oil?
I would be hard pressed to name my favorite Carrier Oil, or which is the best. Carrier Oils vary so widely in properties and characteristics. I usually choose a Carrier Oil based on the needs of the formulation I am working with, but I do have to admit there are some Carrier Oils that I favor over others. Organic Virgin Coconut Cream Oil is one of my favorites, I also adore our entire line of Fruit Berry Seed Oils. Kukui Nut Oil, Camellia Oil, are favorites of mine, and I always keep a bottle of Neem on hand to cure this or that. Squalene is a very interesting ingredient. It is naturally found in the human body, particularly in our sebum, which is the hair and skins natural lubricant and protectant. Most Squalene is harvested from deep sea sharks, but we carry a vegan alternative that is vegetable based. You can learn more about Squalene in the following article: https://naturalbeautyworkshop.com/my_weblog/2009/08/vegetable-squalene.html
Thank you Emmy, that is very helpful to know about a vegan squalene alternative! Do you know if squalene is effective on its own as a moisturizer, or does it need to be mixed with other ingredients in order to be effective?
I believe Squalene can be used on its own to moisturize the skin, but I havent tried it myself. I would recommend trying the Squalene on its own, and seeing how you like the texture. If it is too heavy, try cutting it with another, light textured Oil, such as Rosehip or Strawberry Seed Oil.