Have you ever considered that the majority of the oil applied to your skin during an aromatherapy massage is the carrier oil?
We know that every essential oil has its own aroma and healing properties. However, in a massage, your essential oils are mixed with an oil that ‘carries’ it to your skin.
This carrier oil dilutes the essential oil so that it can be safely applied to your skin. It also ensures your massage flows; that it is smooth and relaxing with no drag to your skin.
As a percentage of the oil that is massaged into your epidermis, the carrier oil usually makes up 98%!
As well as being the base oil into which the essential oils are mixed, natural carrier oils have therapeutic properties of their own.
Therefore, when using essential oils at home, instead of mixing with a mineral oil or even baby lotion, why not choose and use a carrier oil that will also benefit you?!
There are a number of carrier oils to choose from.
As with essential oils, it is best to purchase from a reputable supplier, however, that is not difficult as well known auction sites have professional oils for sale and, purchasing this way is ideal if you only want to purchase a small quantity for self use.
The most commonly used carrier oils are grapeseed and sweet almond; however, caution should be exercised with almond oil in case there is a nut allergy. Below is a brief list of some of the most popular oils and some of my favourites. There are, however, many more available and you might wish to conduct your own search and research to find an oil that is perfect for you!
If you have any queries on the carrier oils or would like to know where I purchase mine, please do contact me and I will happily answer any questions you might have.
Sweet almond – ls popular due to its therapeutic and nourishing properties. It is great for massaging as it is lubricating without penetrating so it doesn’t absorb quickly. Used in many massage and body products. Sweet Almond oil is especially suited to dry, sensitive and irritated skin.
Apricot kernel – Extracted from the ‘seed’ in the centre of the apricot, this is one of my favourites. The high content of o
leic acid gives it a great affinity to the skin and makes it easily absorbed. Being lighter than almond oil, and without the risks associated, this is great for using at home to mix salt-scrubs and great in facial products.
Argan oil – High quantities of vitamin e and essential fatty acids in this oil make it for anti-aging. Its antioxidant properties are good for calming skin after extremes of weather. If you would like revitalised skin, this is the oil for you. Beware however as it is one of the most expensive carrier oils.
Coconut oil -Helps control skins secretions so great for after bathing to quickly restore your pH without blocking pores. Has natural dispersant properties so is great for combining with essential oils you would like to add to bath water. Used by a number of people as skin and health care. Blends well with other carrier oils.
Grape Seed- has a high linoleic acid value so very moisturising – this light oil absorbs quickly so making it great for skin care. Great as a carrier oil as it does not leave a greasy feeling on the skin. Combines well with jojoba for body massage and sea buckthorn for facial oils. Suitable for most skins.
Jojoba – one of the most important oils in skin care as mimics our natural sebum and is very nourishing. Can be mixed with Sea Buckthorn or Almond oil; also, try mixing with hemp for use on male skin. Jojoba can be applied to the hair to nourish and with its natural SPF of 5 will also help protect your scalp!
Hemp Oil – this has amazing properties. Essential fatty acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), vitamins and omega 3! Nourishing to the skin on your face and body, and a regular choice for anti-aging products. Hemp combines well with jojoba, buckthorn and almond. Its slightly woody smell makes it great for men.
Sunflower – An oil rich in Oleic acids with high amounts of Vitamins A, D, and E . Is a great substitute for almond oil,
also mixes well with other carriers in a 50/50 blend.
As many of you are aware, I am now choosing organic and vegan-friendly products for the salon. I felt this was the right direction to go for me and my clients and reiterates the professional message I want to portray. You can rest assured that, should you visit for an aromatherapy massage, not only will the oils be chosen especially for you, but will be blending with organic, vegan-friendly carrier oil/s.
Should you like to find out more about the aromatherapy treatments available at the salon, please click click here.
