As a source of lipids for the body, carrier oils play an essential role in the body. Thus, they participate in the renewal of cell membranes and are also conductors of several vitamins in the human body, in particular vitamin E, which is recommended for its antioxidant virtues. It neutralises free radicals and therefore prevents the ageing of cells (dermis, red blood cells, blood vessels, etc.). Here are the 13 most used carrier oils:
1. Sweet almond oil
Rich in vitamin A and E, this carrier oil has many properties: softening, soothing and toning, nourishing and also strengthening. Applied directly to the skin or mixed into a home care product, it prevents and even reduces stretch marks. It strengthens and moisturises dry hair and is also ideal for dry, sensitive and normal skin. To be avoided on oily skin.
2. Argan oil
A beauty secret for Moroccan women for centuries, argan oil used in cosmetics is rich in fatty acids and vitamin E. Argan oil prevents skin dryness, nourishes, moisturises and heals. It stimulates the renewal of skin cells and maintains their suppleness. Applied to the hair, it makes it shinier and prevents hair loss. Argan oil is suitable for all skin types and is especially suitable for dry and sensitive skin.
3. Arnica macerate
Indispensable in the first-aid kit, especially for athletes and children, Arnica macerate is precious for soothing sores, bumps or bruises.
Pure or in synergy with Calophyllum, calendula or hazelnut carrier oils, it is ideal for those who like to move, for joint disorders, muscle or inflammation.
4. Avocado oil
Avocado oil is one of the richest oils due to its very generous composition in fatty acids and vitamins A, B, C, D, E, H, K and PP. It fights against external aggressions and the ageing of the skin thanks to its softening, moisturising, protective and regenerating properties. Like coconut oil, it prevents stretch marks thanks to its healing and regenerating properties. Avocado oil is very beneficial for damaged and dry hair. Avoid this oil if your hair or skin tends to get greasy quickly.
5. Calendula oil
It is actually an oily macerate of calendula flowers. It is suitable for all skin types and is even suitable for baby care and pregnant women. Its soothing, anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties help in the event of irritation, burns, cracks or sunburn. Calendula oil can be used pure or mixed with other oils.
6. Carrot oil
In the form of an oily macerate, the carrot retains its “beautiful skin” vitamin A as well as its high concentration of “healthy glow” beta-carotene. It prepares and prolongs the tan, delicately tints the skin like a self-tanner, protects against external aggressions and fights against wrinkles. Its antioxidant properties help to combat skin problems such as acne or eczema.
7. Coconut oil
Non-comedogenic, hydrating and regenerating, you will appreciate the multiple benefits of coconut oil (nourishing, sublimating, antibacterial and antimicrobial). Its texture, solid like a balm at room temperature (liquid in case of a heatwave…) makes it easy to apply to all dry areas. It contains:
- vitamin A (improves cell renewal)
- powerful antioxidants that fight free radicals
- vitamin E (slows down skin ageing and stimulates circulation)
- vitamin K (used in cosmetics for varicose veins and dark circles)
- Lauric acid, known for its antimicrobial properties
It can be used on the skin, nails, lips, teeth (as a mouthwash), and hair or to prevent stretch marks during pregnancy.
8. Jojoba oil
Jojoba oil is undoubtedly the best ally for our skin and hair because its composition is similar to that of human sebum. It is suitable for all skin types, including oily skin: jojoba oil moisturises, soothes and regulates sebum production. It can be used as a hair mask, facial oil or natural make-up remover. The skin will absorb Jojoba oil easily without leaving a greasy film.
9. Neem oil
Neem oil is mainly applied to the scalp. It prevents the formation of dandruff and makes lice flee within a few hours of treatment. You can add a few drops to your shampoo as a preventive measure. It is useful to treat skin infections such as eczema and even fungal infections.
10. Hazelnut oil
Ideal for oily skin, hazelnut oil tightens pores and regulates sebum. It boosts healing, repairs damaged skin and nourishes mature skin.
11. Grapeseed oil
Anti-ageing and moisturising, grapeseed oil contains numerous antioxidants that help regenerate skin cells for more radiant and toned skin. You can use it in a body scrub for damaged skin or as a nourishing mask for dry hair. You can also apply purely to oily, mature or damaged skin
12. Rosehip oil
Its oil is naturally rich in fatty acids, vitamins and omega 3 or 6. It nourishes the skin, moisturises it, also protects it and fights against its ageing. Softening, regenerating, anti-wrinkle, healing and soothing, you can use this oil as a day and night cream if mixed with other essential or vegetable oils. Rosehip oil is suitable for all skin types but particularly for dry and irritated skin.
13. Tamanu oil
The vegetable oil of Tamanu has a multitude of benefits. It is of great help for:
- relieve joint,
- circulatory and muscular discomfort,
- solve daily skin problems
- take care of skin prone to imperfections or redness.
It is also a good idea to add it to your natural emergency kit. Its cosmetic properties are less important than the other carrier oils but are not to be neglected.