Carrier oils are rightly called so, as they are used in blending with the essential oils i.e., they carry the essential oils.

This is done also for many reasons,  the carrier oil acts as a catalyst and enhances the penetration of the essential oils. The natural essential oils are highly concentrated and strong, thus they are diluted with carrier oils.The carrier oils also reduce evaporation of volatile molecules of essential oils by holding on the skin, known as the "reservoir effect". This increases the chances of the therapeutic effect of essential oils on the skin.  Carrier oils also help to increase the surface area that 15 - 20 drops could cover (as it would be impossible to massage those few drops over an entire body).

ALMOND (SWEET)
A light, softening and nourishing oil suitable to most skin types and soothing to any irritations. It contains Vitamin-E and has been popular throughout history. It is also suitable for babies.

APRICOT KERNEL
This light texture oil is a good source of vitamins and minerals.It is a natural moisturiser with high penetrative qualities and is suitable for all skin types. It can be used for facial and therapeutic massages.

ARACHIS (PEANUT)
Peanut oil is rich in vitamins and minerals and is suitable for use on its own. It is used to ease rheumatism of the joints.

AVOCADO
This oil is heavy, rich in vitamins, lechtin and essential fatty acids which are easily absorbed into the deeper levels of the skin. It is especially good for softening the skin and protecting the skin. It can be used for dry or mature skins, stretch marks and wrinkles.

COCONUT
This light textured oil is very popular, being non greasy, easily absorbable and nourishing. It is suitable for all skin types. Heat oil and add essential oils.

CORN
Corn oil has a light texture and is rich in vitamin and minerals. It is nourishing. It is inexpensive and suitable for all skin types.

GRAPESEED
This oil has a light texture, it is odourless and easily absorbable. It is suitable for all skin types, especially oily ones.

HAZELNUT
The hazelnut oil with its light texture contains vitamins and minerals. It has a good penetrative power. It is suitable for all skin types, especially oily ones.

JOJOBA
The really fine texture of jojoba oil is best blended with a lighter oil. This oil has a longer shelf life. It is good for facial blends and skin troubles such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, as it is readily absorbed by the skin and has a non greasy softening effect. It is rich in vitamin E and can be added to massage oils to extend their life.

OLIVE
This sticky oil is not a good lubricant, and has a strong odour, though it has healing properties, for example it is good for dry or sore skin. Best when added to other oils, it is readily available.

PEACH KERNEL
This oil has a light texture and contains useful nutrients. It is penetrating and virtually odourless. It is sometimes sold mixed with apricot-kernel oil (both are getting scarce).

SESAME
The sesame oil has a heavy texture and is best added to other oils. The unrefined oil is a good source of vitamin E. This oil is a natural moisturiser and is reputed to help skin ailments and rheumatism. Due to its slow penetration it stays in the body for 5 - 6 days.

SOYA
The soya oil is light, nourishing and easily absorbable. It is especially suited for oily skin. Unless of good quality, it quickly turns rancid.

SUNFLOWER
It is light textured and a source of minerals and vitamins. It is suitable for all skin types.

VITAMIN E
It is thick, nourishing and a good lubricant. It improves dry and mature skins and helps heal scars. Best blended with other oils.

WHEATGERM
It has a pronounced odour and is heavy and sticky. The oil is a rich source of vitamin E (improves dry skin, is good for healing burns and scar tissue). It is an anti-oxidant and a few drops added to your massage oil will prolong its shelf life.