Carrier oils are the unsung heroes of natural beauty. While essential oils get most of the attention, it's carrier oils that form the backbone of any effective oil-based skincare routine. They deliver nutrients directly to your skin, dilute potent essential oils for safe application, and provide therapeutic benefits of their own.
But with dozens of options available, how do you choose? This guide breaks down the most popular carrier oils, their unique properties, and which skin types they suit best.
What Are Carrier Oils?
Carrier oils are vegetable oils derived from the fatty portions of plants — typically seeds, nuts, or kernels. Unlike essential oils (which are highly concentrated and volatile), carrier oils are mild, safe for direct skin contact, and "carry" other ingredients into the skin. They're also packed with their own skin-nourishing compounds: vitamins, fatty acids, and antioxidants.
Top Carrier Oils Compared
Argan Oil (Argania Spinosa)
Best for: All skin types, especially dry and mature skin
Key compounds: Vitamin E, oleic acid (43%), linoleic acid (37%), squalene, ferulic acid
Texture: Medium weight, absorbs in 1–2 minutes, non-greasy
The gold standard of face oils. Argan oil balances moisture without clogging pores, fights signs of ageing, and protects against environmental damage. Its balanced ratio of oleic to linoleic acid makes it suitable for virtually every skin type. Sourced from the argan trees of Morocco, genuine cold-pressed argan oil has a light nutty scent and golden colour.
Jojoba Oil (Simmondsia Chinensis)
Best for: Oily and acne-prone skin
Key compounds: Wax esters (97%), vitamin E, vitamin B complex
Texture: Very light, absorbs almost instantly
Technically a liquid wax rather than an oil, jojoba's molecular structure is the closest match to human sebum of any plant extract. This means it regulates oil production — when your skin senses jojoba, it produces less of its own sebum. Excellent for oil cleansing, makeup removal, and as a lightweight daily moisturiser.
Rosehip Oil (Rosa Canina)
Best for: Ageing skin, hyperpigmentation, scars
Key compounds: Trans-retinoic acid (natural vitamin A), vitamin C, linoleic acid (54%), alpha-linolenic acid (35%)
Texture: Light to medium, absorbs in 2–3 minutes, dry finish
Rosehip oil is the closest thing to a natural retinol. Its naturally occurring trans-retinoic acid promotes cell turnover, fading dark spots and fine lines. The high linoleic acid content makes it suitable for oily skin types — a rarity among anti-ageing oils. Best used in evening routines as vitamin A can increase sun sensitivity.
Sweet Almond Oil (Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis)
Best for: Dry and sensitive skin, body care, massage
Key compounds: Oleic acid (62%), linoleic acid (29%), vitamins A, D, E
Texture: Medium weight, smooth and silky, absorbs in 3–5 minutes
A gentle, nourishing all-rounder that's been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. Sweet almond oil is rich enough for body care and gentle enough for babies. It's an excellent carrier for essential oil blends and makes a luxurious massage oil. Note: avoid if you have tree nut allergies.
Marula Oil (Sclerocarya Birrea)
Best for: Sensitive and reactive skin, rosacea-prone skin
Key compounds: Oleic acid (70%), vitamin C, vitamin E, amino acids
Texture: Light, fast-absorbing, silk-like finish
Native to Southern Africa, marula oil has exceptional stability (resists oxidation 10× better than most oils) and powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Its high oleic acid content provides deep nourishment without irritation, making it ideal for anyone with sensitive or reactive skin conditions.
Coconut Oil (Cocos Nucifera)
Best for: Body and hair care (use with caution on face)
Key compounds: Lauric acid (49%), myristic acid (18%), caprylic acid (8%)
Texture: Solid below 24°C, heavy and occlusive
Coconut oil is highly comedogenic (pore-clogging) for facial use, but excellent for body moisturising, hair masks, and cuticle care. Its lauric acid content gives it natural antimicrobial properties. Choose virgin, unrefined coconut oil for maximum nutrient content. Best for body care rather than facial application.
How to Choose Your Oil
Consider three factors when selecting a carrier oil:
- Skin type: Oily skin → high linoleic acid oils (rosehip, jojoba). Dry skin → high oleic acid oils (argan, marula, sweet almond).
- Concern: Anti-ageing → rosehip, argan. Acne → jojoba, rosehip. Sensitivity → marula, sweet almond.
- Application area: Face → lighter oils (jojoba, argan, rosehip). Body → richer oils (sweet almond, coconut). Hair → coconut, argan, castor.
Layering Multiple Oils
You can absolutely combine carrier oils for customised benefits. Apply lighter oils first (jojoba, rosehip) and follow with heavier ones (argan, sweet almond). A popular combination: rosehip + argan for an anti-ageing powerhouse that suits all skin types.
All EydOil carrier oils are 100% pure, cold-pressed, and bottled in UV-protective dark glass. No additives, no blending, no compromises. Explore the full range and find your perfect match.