Essential Oils and Carrier Oils: The 2025 Ultimate Guide for Skincare

If you're not familiar with the world of non-toxic skincare, understanding the how to use essential oils and carrier oils can be confusing.  

In this article, I will explain the benefits of some key essential oils and carrier oils, how to use them for your specific skincare needs, plus other recommendations to transform your routine from basic moisture to targeted, plant-powered skincare.

Understanding the Difference Between Essential Oils and Carrier Oils

Essential oils and carrier oils are collectively considered botanical oils, which are lipids or fats derived from plants. However, their origins, concentrations, and functions are very different. To clarify, we categorize them into two groups: fatty oils, commonly known as carrier oils, and essential oils. Confusing one for the other can lead to serious consequences for your skin. The primary difference between essential oils and carrier oils lies in their composition and use: 

	Essential Oils	Carrier Oils
What They Are	Aromatic extracts from leaves, flowers, or roots	Fatty oils pressed from nuts, seeds, or kernels
Consistency	Volatile, evaporates quickly	Stable, remains on the skin
Concentration	Extremely potent.	Gentle, non-concentrated.
Use on Skin	Must be diluted / Never use on the skin at full potency	Safe to use alone / Perfect "as-is"
Primary Role	Therapeutic, aromatic benefits	Moisturizing, dilution, nutrient delivery

In short, when used in your skincare routine, carrier oils are your base, and essential oils are your boost. You need the carrier oil to safely deliver the essential oil. Mixing specific essential oils with carrier oils provides myriad skincare benefits for all skin types [1].

👉 RELATED: Non-Toxic Ingredients: Conventional vs Plant-Based Skincare

A Guide to Carrier Oils for Skincare

Forget the water-based, one-size-fits-all moisturizers. Carrier oils for skincare are the way to go if you want clean, natural, and effective hydration. The right carrier oil not only moisturizes but can also balance, soothe, or rejuvenate your skin, depending on your needs  [2]. 

PRO-TIP: When shopping for carrier oils for skincare, be sure to look for cold-pressed carrier oils to ensure the highest quality. 

Lightweight & Fast-Absorbing Carrier Oils

Ideal for daytime use and under makeup, these carrier oils are thin, dry oils that sink in quickly with a non-greasy feel. 

• Apricot Kernel Oil

A light oil pressed from apricot kernels that is rich in linoleic acid and vitamin E. It is easily absorbed and helps soften skin without clogging pores, making it a great moisturizer for sensitive skin and the delicate eye area.

• Camellia Seed Oil

Pressed from the seeds of the Camellia oleifera plant, this lightweight oil is high in oleic acid and antioxidants. It provides moisture and creates a protective barrier against environmental damage.

• Grape Seed Oil

A light, thin oil extracted from grape seeds that is high in linoleic acid. It tightens pores and regulates sebum production in oily skin, leaving a matte, non-greasy finish.

• Jojoba Seed Oil

A liquid wax ester extracted from jojoba seeds, its structure is similar to human sebum. It balances oil production and effectively cleanses pore-clogging impurities.

• Passion Fruit Seed Oil

Also called maracuja oil, this is extracted from passion fruit seeds and is high in linoleic acid. It restores moisture, smooths skin texture, and protects against premature aging.

• Safflower Seed Oil

Derived from safflower seeds, the high-linoleic version is light and rich in vitamin E. It provides lightweight, non-pore-clogging hydration that strengthens the skin's barrier.

Medium-Weight & Nourishing Carrier Oils 

These carrier oils have a more substantial texture that absorbs well and offers a noticeable layer of nourishment.

• Argan Kernel Oil

Sourced from the kernels of the argan tree in Morocco, this oil is high in vitamin E and antioxidants. It reduces skin dryness and improves elasticity, often used to diminish the appearance of fine lines.

• Evening Primrose Oil

Pressed from evening primrose seeds, this oil contains a high concentration of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). GLA provides a direct source of anti-inflammatory fat to the skin. It directly address skin inflammation, helping to calm redness and symptoms of hormonal acne and eczema.

• Moringa Seed Oil

Cold-pressed from Moringa oleifera seeds, this stable oil is high in oleic acid and antioxidants. It purifies the skin by removing pollution and other impurities from pores.

• Rosehip Seed Oil
  

Pressed from rose bush seeds, this oil is rich in essential fatty acids and trans-retinoic acid. It fades hyperpigmentation, acne scars, and fine lines while promoting skin cell regeneration.

• Sacha Inchi Seed Oil

Extracted from sacha inchi seeds, this oil is exceptionally high in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. It deeply nourishes and calms inflamed skin while repairing damaged barriers.

• Sunflower Seed Oil

A common oil pressed from sunflower seeds that is rich in vitamin E. It strengthens the skin's natural barrier, helping it retain moisture and protect against environmental irritants.

Rich & Protective Carrier Oils

For overnight treatments or very dry areas, these thicker, more viscous carrier oils absorb slowly and create a strong occlusive barrier. 

• Avocado Oil

A thick, rich oil extracted from avocado fruit that is high in monounsaturated fats and vitamins. It penetrates deeply to relieve extremely dry, cracked skin and helps bolster the skin's natural protective barrier.

• Baobab Oil

Derived from the seeds of the African baobab tree, this oil is rich in vitamins and omega fatty acids. It improves skin elasticity and softens the appearance of scars and stretch marks while providing long-lasting moisture.

• Castor Seed Oil

A thick, viscous oil obtained from castor beans that is high in ricinoleic acid. A multi-purpose powerhouse, it promotes thick, healthy hair and lash growth and effectively locks in moisture when used on skin and lips.

• Olive Fruit Oil

A well-known oil obtained from olives that is rich in squalene and antioxidants. It provides strong antioxidant protection and effective moisturization for dehydrated skin. 

Top Essential Oils for Targeted Skin Solutions

Essential oils are often associated with aromatherapy. But these concentrated plant essences can also provide important benefits in your skincare routine [ 3].

REMEMBER: always be sure there is a dilution ratio of 1-2% of essential oil to carrier oil and use patch testing for sensitive skin.

Potent Anti-Inflammatory Essential Oils

These oils work by calming the skin's inflammatory response to soothe conditions like redness, eczema, and irritation.

• Blue Tansy Essential Oil

Steam-distilled from the Moroccan chamomile flower, this essential oil is a deep blue color. It calms severe redness, allergic reactions, and inflamed acne due to its potent anti-inflammatory compounds.

• Coriander Seed Essential Oil

Distilled from coriander seeds, this oil has a warm, spicy scent. It soothes skin discomfort and has a high content of linalool, a compound known for its significant calming and anti-inflammatory effects on the skin.

• Lavender Essential Oil

Steam-distilled from lavender flowers, this oil has a floral, herbaceous scent. It accelerates the healing of minor burns and blemishes while calming general skin irritation.

• Roman Chamomile Essential Oil

Steam-distilled from Roman chamomile flowers, this oil has a sweet, apple-like fragrance. It is one of the gentlest essential oils, specifically used to calm eczema, rosacea, and reactive sensitive skin.

• Sandalwood Essential Oil

Distilled from sandalwood heartwood, this oil has a rich, warm, woody scent. It soothes dry, irritated skin and reduces the appearance of redness while providing mild tightening.

Antimicrobial & Antiseptic Essential Oils 

These oils help cleanse the skin by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and other microbes that can lead to acne and congestion.

• Atlas Cedarwood Wood Oil

Distilled from the wood of the Atlas cedar tree, this oil has a warm, woody scent. It reduces excess oil production and helps clear acne by acting as an astringent and antiseptic.

• Juniper Fruit Essential Oil

Distilled from juniper berries, this oil has a fresh, woody-pine scent. It detoxifies the skin by clearing congested pores and reducing water retention and puffiness.

• Lemon Essential Oil

Cold-pressed from lemon peel, this oil has a sharp, fresh citrus scent. It acts as a natural exfoliant to brighten complexion and fade dark spots.

NOTE: This oil is phototoxic and can cause burns. Be especially careful to avoid sun exposure.

• Orange Peel Essential Oil

Cold-pressed from orange peel, this oil has a sweet, citrus aroma. It brightens skin and helps clear congestion. This oil is also phototoxic.

• Tea Tree Oil

Steam-distilled from Melaleuca alternifolia leaves, this oil has a sharp, medicinal scent. It directly targets and kills acne-causing bacteria while helping to dry out active blemishes.

Astringent & Sebum Regulating Essential Oils

Astringent oils slightly tighten the skin, while sebum-regulating oils help balance and control sebum production, reducing shine and the appearance of pores.

• Clary Sage Essential Oil

Derived from the clary sage plant, this oil has a sweet, herbaceous aroma. It regulates sebum production, reduces pore size, and has calming properties.

• Geranium Essential Oil

Steam-distilled from the geranium plant, this oil has a floral, rose-like scent. It balances oil production across combination skin, hydrating dry patches while mattifying oily zones.

• Pink Grapefruit Essential Oil

Cold-pressed from pink grapefruit rind, this oil has a fresh, tart citrus scent. It tightens pores as an astringent and provides uplifting aromatherapy benefits. This oil is phototoxic.

• Tangerine Leaf Essential Oil

Distilled from tangerine leaves and twigs, this oil has a fresh, floral-citrus scent. It provides a gentle toning effect for sensitive skin without the phototoxicity of citrus peel oils.

Cell Regenerative & Antioxidant Essential Oils

These oils promote skin renewal and protect against environmental damage by supporting collagen production and neutralizing free radicals.

• Carrot Seed Essential Oil

Distilled from the dried seeds of the wild carrot plant, this oil is rich in antioxidants. It stimulates skin cell regeneration to improve tone and elasticity. This essential oil increases sun sensitivity and should be used with some caution.

• Frankincense Essential Oil

Distilled from the resin of the Boswellia tree, this oil has a warm, balsamic aroma. It tightens skin, reduces the appearance of large pores, and smooths fine lines.

• Rose Absolute 

Extracted using solvents from rose flowers, this absolute has a deep, rich rose scent. It provides deep hydration and has a mild anti-inflammatory effect that soothes redness.

• Rose Otto Flower Essential Oil

Steam-distilled from rose petals, this oil has a true floral rose scent. It tightens the skin, provides mild hydration, and supports skin regeneration to improve texture.

🤔 Curious about using essential oils for relaxation? Check out this article on the best scents for sleep.

How to Use Essential Oils with Carrier Oils for Your Skin Concerns

The true magic of botanical skincare lies in the powerful combinations of essential oils and carrier oils. Carrier oils deliver deep nourishment and restore the skin's lipid barrier, while essential oils offer targeted, active benefits. This allows you to tailor your routine to your exact skin needs.

With a bit of experimentation, you can create your own blends of essential oils and carrier oils. But if "lab coat white" isn't your color, here is a list of recommended products from brands that have done the work for you.

Essential Oil and Carrier Oil Combos for Acne-Prone & Oily Skin

If your skin tends to shine a little too brightly, the goal is to clarify without stripping. The right oils can balance oil production and calm inflammation deep within the pores.

• Cleanser: Tea Tree Face Cleanser with Aloe Vera
  • Essential Oil: Tea tree oil acts as a natural antiseptic, diving deep into pores to neutralize acne-causing bacteria and prevent new blemishes from forming.
• Moisturizer: Blue Tansy & Apricot Oil
  • Carrier Oil: Apricot kernel oil provides feather-light moisture that balances sebum levels without ever feeling heavy or clogging pores.
  • Essential Oil: Blue tansy oil is a hero for inflamed skin, famous for its ability to soothe the angry red appearance of active breakouts.

Essential Oil and Carrier Oil Combos for Dry & Dehydrated Skin

When your skin feels tight, flaky, or just plain thirsty, it’s crying out for rich nourishment. The right blend of oils can quench that thirst and help lock moisture in.

• Cleanser: Goji Nectar Cleansing Balm
  • Carrier Oils: Sunflower oil, avocado oil, and baobab oil work together to dissolve impurities while wrapping your skin in a blanket of nourishing fatty acids and vitamins.
  • Essential Oils: Ginger and coriander seed oil give a gentle wake-up call to your circulation, promoting a healthy, hydrated glow from within.
• Moisturizer: Vegan Collagen Face Cream
  • Carrier Oils: A lush blend of jojoba oil, sunflower seed oil, olive fruit oil, evening primrose oil, rosehip seed oil, and borage seed oil delivers a shot of omegas to repair your skin’s natural moisture barrier and soothe feelings of tightness.
  • Essential Oils: Rose otto and rose absolute offer subtle hydration and have a gentle toning effect that helps skin feel supple and firm.

Essential Oil and Carrier Oil Combos for Dull, Uneven, & Mature Skin

Bringing lackluster skin back to life requires a strategy focused on renewal and radiance. Look for oils packed with antioxidants that encourage cellular turnover and restore that youthful glow.

• Cleanser: Hawaiian Sandalwood & Juniper Soap
  
  • Carrier Oils: Passion fruit seed oil and camellia seed oil ensure your skin is left perfectly hydrated and soft, never tight or dry.
  • Essential Oils: Pink grapefruit oil and juniper berry oil work as natural astringents to sweep away dulling dead cells, while sandalwood oil provides timeless soothing and rejuvenating benefits.
    

• Moisturizer: MILO Everything Oil
  
  • Carrier Oils: A symphony of 11 carrier oils, including rosehip seed oil, argan oil, and sacha inchi oil, this combination creates a powerful, multi-faceted solution that actively restores and fortifies the skin's natural protective layer.
  • Essential Oils: Lavender oil and coriander seed oil provide a targeted blend that effectively accelerates the skin's healing processes and adds a strong layer of antioxidant protection, fighting the free radicals that cause collagen breakdown. 

Essential Oil and Carrier Oil Combos for Sensitive & Irritated Skin

Sensitive skin demands a gentle touch with simple ingredients. The philosophy here is "less is more," focusing on calming and strengthening your skin’s delicate barrier.

• Cleanser: Oil to Milk Cleansing Balm
  • Carrier Oils: Sunflower seed oil, oat kernel oil, and baobab seed oil cleanse while simultaneously calming and protecting vulnerable skin from irritation.
  • Essential Oils: Roman chamomile oil and geranium oil are carefully chosen for their renowned anti-inflammatory properties and gentleness to sensitive skin, directly helping to reduce visible redness and reactivity.
• Moisturizer: Rosehip Oil for Hair & Skin
  • Carrier Oil: Pure rosehip seed oil is a powerhouse in a single ingredient. It’s packed with fatty acids and pro-vitamin A to quietly repair your skin’s barrier, reduce redness, and improve the look of scars without a single drop of potentially irritating essential oils.

👉 These products and others can be found in our Non-Toxic Skincare collection. 

Safety and Best Practices for Using Essential Oils and Carrier Oils on Skin

Working with essential oils and carrier oils demands respect for their potency and properties. To enjoy the benefits without the backlash, follow these non-negotiable rules for handling essential oils and carrier oils.

• Dilution is Mandatory: In any regimen involving essential oils and your skin, remember that they are potent. Proper essential oil dilution with carrier oils is critical. A general rule for facial use is a 1-2% dilution—about 6 to 12 drops of essential oil per ounce of carrier oil.
• Patch Test Everything: Before applying any new combination of essential oils and carrier oils to your face, test it on your inner arm and wait 24 hours to check for reactions.
• Quality Matters: Source your oils from reputable suppliers. Purity affects both performance and safety in your skincare routine.
• Sun Sensitivity: Be aware that some essential oils (especially citrus oils) are phototoxic and can cause severe burns if used before sun exposure, even when properly diluted with carrier oils.

👉 Learn more about a comprehensive self-care with our Sustainable Self-Care Checklist: A Guide for Well-Being.

Frequently Asked Questions About Essential Oils and Carrier Oils

What is the difference between essential oils and carrier oils?

Essential oils and carrier oils serve different but complementary roles. Essential oils are highly concentrated, volatile aromatic compounds extracted from plants, while carrier oils are fatty oils pressed from nuts, seeds, or kernels. Essential oils and carrier oils work together, with carrier oils safely diluting essential oils for skin application.

Can you use carrier oils alone?

Yes, absolutely. In fact, one of the key differences between essential oils and carrier oils is that carrier oils are safe to use directly on the skin and hair without dilution. In contrast, essential oils must always be diluted.

How do you dilute essential oils with carrier oils?

When working with essential oils and carrier oils, a safe dilution ratio for facial care is 1-2%, which equals about 6-12 drops of essential oil per 1 ounce of carrier oil. Properly blending essential oils and carrier oils ensures both safety and effectiveness.

What are the best carrier oils for your face?

The best carrier oils depend on your skin type, but understanding essential oils and carrier oils helps you make informed choices. For balanced skin, Jojoba Oil works well with most essential oils. Our MILO Everything Oil contains a sophisticated blend of carrier oils perfect for use with essential oils.

Are essential oils and carrier oils good for acne-prone skin?

Yes, when chosen correctly. The right combination of essential oils and carrier oils can benefit acne-prone skin. Non-comedogenic carrier oils like Jojoba balance oil production, while antibacterial essential oils like Tea Tree clarify pores in a well-formulated regimen of essential oils and carrier oils.

What are the best essential oils and carrier oils for dry skin?

For dry skin, richer carrier oils are ideal in your essential oils and carrier oils routine. Argan oil, and Avocado oil provide deep hydration and repair the skin barrier when used with complementary essential oils in a balanced essential oils and carrier oils approach.

 

For more details: 

1. The Enigma of Bioactivity and Toxicity of Oils for Skin Care 
2. A Comprehensive Review of Plant-Based Cosmetic Oils 
3. Essential Oils 101