In recent years, essential oils have rapidly gained dominance in the world of aromatherapy, skincare, and hair care, and are hailed by beauty gurus and certified medical experts alike. However, the debate on which is better- carrier oils or essential oils is still rampant. The simple answer is, that both serve different purposes and offer distinct benefits. The question then is not which is better, but rather when to use carrier oil and which scenarios are better for using essential oils.
What Are Carrier Oils?
Carrier oils, such as coconut or mustard oil, are also known as base oils. These oils are extracted from the fatty parts of plants, such as seeds, nuts, or kernels. They are called 'carrier oils' because they act as a vehicle to dilute and 'carry' various ingredients.
Also Read: From Oil Pulling to Aromatherapy: 7 Ways to Boost Your Self-Care Routine with Coconut Oil
Some common examples of carrier oils are:
- Sweet Almond Oil
- Coconut Oil
- Jojoba Oil
- Olive Oil
- Avocado Oil
- Grapeseed Oil
- Mustard Oil
- Desi Ghee
Carrier Oils typically have a mild aroma and since they are sourced from fats, they have excellent hydrating and nourishing properties that make them the perfect choice for a massage session.
What Are Essential Oils?
Essential oils are highly concentrated extracts from various parts of plants, including leaves, flowers, stems, and roots. They contain the plant's aromatic compounds, which give them distinct scents and therapeutic properties.
Although a beloved aspect of aromatherapy, 'there's not enough research to determine their effectiveness in human health,' as per data published on the website of John Hopkins Medicine.
Nevertheless, some popular essential oils are:
- Lavender Oil
- Peppermint Oil
- Rosemary Oil
- Tea Tree Oil
- Eucalyptus Oil
- Lemon Oil
- Chamomile Oil
Key Differences Between Carrier Oils and Essential Oils
While carrier oils are primarily used for their hydrating and nourishing properties, essential oils contain various therapeutic properties, such as antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and calming effects.
However, in comparison to essential oils, carrier oils have a lower concentration of aromatic compounds of the plant they are sourced from. This makes carrier oils less volatile and less susceptible to evaporation, which affords them a longer shelf life than essential oils.
When to Use Carrier Oils
As carrier oils are not volatile and highly concentrated, they are best used for topical applications. Some of the ways in which you can incorporate carrier oils into your lifestyle are:
- Diluting Essential Oils: Carrier oils act as the perfect base for using essential oils for the skin. These oils can prevent skin irritation and sensitisation, which can be caused by direct contact with highly concentrated essential oils.
- Massage: Carrier oils are ideal for massage therapy, promoting relaxation and skin hydration.
- Skincare: Since they are essential fats, carrier oils can be used as moisturisers or added to skincare products for added nourishment.
- Hair Care: Carrier oils are beneficial for hair and scalp treatments, as they add shine and moisture to the hair. Coconut oil and mustard oil are famous carrier oils used for hair care in Indian households.
When to Use Essential Oils
Here's a brief guide on how you can use essential oils to elevate your well-being:
- Aromatherapy: Diffusing essential oils into the air by adding a few drops in a diffuser can create a desired ambience that promotes relaxation and boosts sleep.
- Topical Application: When properly diluted with carrier oils, essential oils can be applied to the skin for various purposes, such as soothing sore muscles or addressing skin issues.
- Inhalation: The intense aromatic properties of essential oils mean that inhaling them by adding a few drops to boiling water can open up your sinuses and provide respiratory relief.
In summary, carrier oils and essential oils complement each other in various wellness practices. Carrier oils provide a safe and gentle base for essential oils, allowing you to enjoy their therapeutic benefits without the risk of skin irritation. If you choose to invest in essential oils, perform a patch test first to see how your skin reacts to it. The best way to ensure the longevity of your essential oils is by storing them in a dark glass bottle, in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Just keep in mind that using essential oils as natural remedies to fight illnesses should be cross-checked with a doctor, especially if you're pregnant, nursing, elderly, or suffering from underlying health conditions.