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Carrier oil - An essential ingredient of aromatherapy skin care products

A carrier oil is used as a base in aromatherapy skin care preparations.  Because pure essential oils are so concentrated they can cause irritation if applied neat to the skin.  Aromatherapists use carrier oils to dilute a few drops of therapeutic essential oil, to make if safe to be rubbed into the skin.  Only a few drops of aromatherapy oil are needed, as the base oil is very effective in carrying its healing properties onto the body, where they can be easily absorbed into the bloodstream.  Aromatic blends of essential oils are often used to create soothing massage oils and other products.

Aromatherapy carrier oils are cold pressed vegetable oils from the fatty parts of a plant.  A carrier oil usually contains its own beneficial qualities, such as vitamins and minerals, which can be good for the skin too, as well as being a good base for fragrant aromatherapy oils.  Sweet almond oil is useful in a multitude of different types of skincare products.  It's widely available and affordably priced.  Also popular with many aromatherapists is jojoba oil, which doesn't leave an oily feeling on the skin and can be kept for a long time before going rancid.

Carrier or base oils can be used to make all kinds of aromatherapy products.  Aromatic roll on sticks made from special essential oil blends can be rolled onto pulse points, and can easily be carried in a handbag to be readily on hand to help relax, uplift or revitalize.  Face creams made from a plant essence with astringent qualities, such as geranium oil, can be used on oily complexions and blocked pores.  And an aromatherapy massage oil can be given as a gift to a loved one, to ease aching muscles and aid relaxation. 

About The Author:

Caroline Smith is a successful freelance writer and regular contributor to http://www.aromatherapy-essential-oils.ws - A comprehensive online guide to the uses of aromatherapy and essential oils.