As people become more aware of the chemicals in commercial skin care products, they slowly transition to natural alternatives. According to research, the average woman applies more than 200 chemicals to the skin during her skin care routine. The skin can absorb those chemicals, whereby they end up in the bloodstream. Not only does this decrease the overall health and appearance of the skin, but it also causes internal damage to bodily organs and systems.
Within recent years, carrier oils increased in popularity as natural options to improve skin health. These oils, which are not the same as essential oils, work to nourish, moisturize, and care for the skin. Carrier oils come from the fatty portion of a plant, typically from seeds, nuts, or kernels. In the case of avocado oil, for example, the oil is extracted from the avocado fruit. While carrier oils have countless therapeutic properties, not all are meant for every skin type. For example, one carrier oil that assists one person with acne reduction may not benefit another person the same way.
Check out some of the most common carrier oils below and see which one works best for your skin type. When you purchase these oils, make sure to purchase high quality varieties. There’s one for each skin type, so if we somehow didn’t include one for you, let us know in the comments below.
Carrier Oils For Oily Skin
Tamanu Oil
Known for the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties, tamanu oil helps to fight bacteria and accelerate wound healing. It comes from tamanu nuts and is an excellent oil for oily, acne-prone skin. Some preliminary research studies found that it may help reduce the appearance of stretch marks and scars. The anti-inflammatory properties may also help relieve itching associated with eczema.
Sweet Almond Oil
Sweet almond oil is a hypoallergenic carrier oil that’s great for all skin types. It’s particularly beneficial for people with sensitive or oily skin. The fatty acids in sweet almond oil work to remove excess sebum, which can clog pores and lead to breakouts. Let almond oil clear excess oil so your skin can be clean and bacteria-free. It also has emollient properties, meaning it helps your skin retain moisture.
Carrier Oils For Combination Skin
Jojoba Oil
Jojoba oil is perfect for all skin types, working to enhance moisture and offer skin protection. Technically speaking, jojoba oil is a liquid polyunsaturated wax that has a similar consistency to the skin. Because of this, jojoba oil can effortlessly mix with sebum to form a thin, protective layer. Not only does it allow the skin to breathe, but it also keeps moisture in. It has the potential to fight acne and may even offer anti-aging and regenerating properties.
Pomegranate Seed Oil
First of all, pomegranate arils are excellent for the skin because of the impressive antioxidants. The same goes for pomegranate seed oil, which works to promote a youthful glow by rejuvenating skin cells. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties offer protection for all skin types, and may even keep your skin safe from UVB damage.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil may be the holy grail of carrier oils. It contains a diverse mix of antioxidants and beneficial fatty acids that help protect against premature aging and moisture loss. Additionally, coconut oil exhibits antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fungal activity that may fight acne and candida. Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer that is safe to use on dry, sensitive, or oily skin. If you have oily skin, however, don’t lather coconut oil on your face because it may increase the risk of breakouts.
Carrier Oils For Dry Skin
Avocado Oil
Extracted from dried avocado fruit, avocado oil is a thick oil that can penetrate the deepest layers of the skin. Naturally rich in vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids, avocado oil helps to encourage cell growth and increase collagen production. People with dryer skin benefit from avocado oil because it noticeably improves moisture levels. Because it is a heavier carrier oil, introduce it slowly as a body moisturizer before slathering it on your face.
Rosehip Seed Oil
This deeply moisturizing carrier oil is excellent for anyone who has skin in need of moisture. Rosehip seed oil contains vitamins A, C, E, and myriad antioxidants that contribute to healthier skin. It’s actually one of the richest plant-based sources of vitamin C, which is great for your collagen! The antioxidants work to reduce sun damage and may even inhibit the development of aging spots. The essential fatty acids in rosehip seed oil may also neutralize free radicals, which can reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
Vincent Stevens is the senior content writer at Dherbs. As a fitness and health and wellness enthusiast, he enjoys covering a variety of topics, including the latest health, fitness, beauty, and lifestyle trends. His goal is to inform people of different ways they can improve their overall health, which aligns with Dherbs’ core values. He received his bachelor’s degree in creative writing from the University of Redlands, graduating summa cum laude. He lives in Los Angeles, CA.
