A carrier oil is a mild plant oil used to dilute essential oils and to massage skin. Jojoba and Abyssinian feel the lightest, almond and apricot kernel are light to medium, and avocado is light to medium with a mild buttery aroma. If you have a nut allergy, check the source of almond, apricot kernel and argan before you use them.
Our carrier oils side by side
| Oil | Where it comes from | Feel and aroma |
|---|---|---|
| Jojoba | Seeds of Simmondsia chinensis. Technically a wax ester, not a true oil | Lightweight, fast-absorbing |
| Abyssinian | Okra seeds (Abelmoschus esculentus) | Featherlight, fast-absorbing, mild aroma, pale golden |
| Argan | Kernels of Argania spinosa grown in Morocco | Light to medium, mild lightly nutty aroma, golden |
| Sweet almond | Prunus dulcis almonds | Lightweight to medium, mild lightly nutty aroma |
| Apricot kernel | Prunus armeniaca kernels | Lightweight to medium, mild nutty-fruity aroma |
| Avocado | Persea gratissima fruit | Light to medium, mild buttery aroma, pale green to golden |
| Aloe vera | Aloe plant | Clear, lightly viscous, very light fresh aroma |
| Argan and prickly pear | A two-oil blend, not a single oil | See the product page |
They sell in 2 oz and 4 oz bottles. Browse the full carrier oil collection.
How to choose
- For a light, quick-absorbing feel, start with jojoba or Abyssinian.
- For general massage, almond and apricot kernel are popular lightweight-to-medium choices.
- For a mild buttery aroma, try avocado.
Allergy note
Sweet almond and apricot kernel come from nuts and kernels, and argan comes from a tree kernel. If you or anyone you massage has a nut allergy, ask a doctor before using them, and consider a seed-based oil such as jojoba. Always patch test a new oil on a small patch of skin first.
Mixing with essential oils
A 2% dilution is a common starting point for adults, which is about 12 drops of essential oil per ounce of carrier oil. Our beginner's guide explains dilution, and aromatherapy oils explained shows how carrier oils fit with essential, fragrance and body oils. Browse the essential oils to blend with.
Storage
Keep carrier oils in a cool, dark place with the cap closed. Oils can turn rancid over time, so buy a size you will use, and discard an oil that smells sharp or sour.
Related reading
- Essential Oils for Beginners: How to Choose, Dilute and Store Them
- Aromatherapy Oils Explained: Essential, Fragrance, Carrier and Body Oils
Frequently asked questions
What is a carrier oil?
A carrier oil is a mild plant oil used to dilute essential oils and to massage skin.
Which carrier oil is the lightest?
Abyssinian is described as featherlight and jojoba as lightweight and fast-absorbing.
Can I use sweet almond oil if I have a nut allergy?
Ask a doctor first. Almond comes from a nut, and a seed-based oil such as jojoba may be a better choice.
How do I store carrier oil?
Keep it in a cool, dark place with the cap closed, and discard it if it smells sharp or sour.
This guide is general information about fragrance, aromatherapy and home use. It is not medical advice.
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