This story originally appeared on Rodale’s Organic Life in October 2017.
There are countless articles circulating on the perks of essential oils. They make amazing cleaning products, they can help you chill out when added to a diffuser, and they even offer a host of perks when applied topically, like reduced inflammation, pain relief, and reduction in fine lines and acne.
But—and it's a big but—you should never, ever put undiluted essential oils directly on your skin. Because they are so concentrated, using essential oils neat can cause varying degrees of skin irritation or sensitivity. The solution? Diluting them. That could mean adding a few drops to your favorite product—“add 6 drops essential oil to 1 ounce of unscented lotion or cream and apply to your face and body,” says Julie Clark, holistic aesthetician and aromatherapist in Toronto, and founder of Province Apothecary—or combining with an oil such as avocado oil. The same ratio applies (6 drops to 1 ounce carrier oil), but which carrier oil is totally up to you.
Carrier oils aren’t just the plus-one to essential oils, though; they provide their own benefits. Here’s a primer on which carrier oils are particularly good for use on your face and body.
Jojoba oil
If you have combination or oily skin, reach for jojoba oil. “Its advanced molecular stability allows for optimal absorption into the skin,” says Clark. Jojoba could also prevent premature wrinkles: One study found that it can keep collagen from breaking down after sun exposure. (See what happened when one editor tried 5 different oils on her face.)
Buy now: Cliganic Certified Organic Jojoba Oil ($10)
Rosehip seed oil
Loaded with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, rosehip is an all-round anti-ager: “It has tissue regenerative properties, and is known to prevent premature aging, reduce scar tissue and minimize wrinkles,” says Persephenie Lea, a certified aromatherapist in Los Angeles with her own handcrafted skincare and perfume line.
Buy now: Aria Starr 100% Rosehip Oil ($13)
Related: 7 Amazing Benefits Of Adding Rosehip Oil To Your Skin Care Routine
Carrot seed oil
If hyperpigmentation and sun damage is your skin gripe, carrot seed oil can help. “Rich in beta-carotene and vitamin A, it’s known for delaying the aging process,” says Lea.
Buy now: Rejuve Naturals Carrot Seed Oil ($11)
(Make this simple DIY body butter with essential oils, olive oil, and a hand mixer!)
Camellia seed oil
A favorite of porcelain-skinned Geisha’s, this feather-light oil is rich in oleic acids for moisture, but won’t weigh your skin down. “It naturally nourishes and enlivens and works well for all skin types, especially sensitive skin,” says Clark. (Check out these amazing benefits of dry brushing your skin.)
Buy now: Olea Botanicals Japanese Camellia Seed Oil ($15)
Avocado oil
“Excellent for dry, dull, dehydrated and mature skin, avocado oil penetrates the outer layers of the skin, allowing it to be deeply absorbed,” says Clark. Rich in antioxidant vitamin E and skin-repairing phytosterols, it also has rejuvenating powers. (Avocado oil is awesome for cooking too!)
