Oils: Benefits & Uses

Here is a list of carrier oils that we use in making our products with a brief descriptions of the properties, benefits and uses of each oil. We only specify the benefits of external uses of these oils, although many of them have fantastic benefits when consumed as well. Where possible choose Organic and Cold Pressed to ensure the highest quality and purity.

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Almond Oil (Sweet) – emollient, light weight, non-drying, odourless oil cold pressed from the kernel of the almond. It is excellent for softening the skin with high concentration of vitamin E as well as fatty acids (particularly omega 6 & 9). High vitamin E makes it great as an anti-wrinkle/scar treatment and has been used to reduce black/dark spots. It has also been used to strengthen and thicken hair. Commonly used in massage as it is easily absorbed and suitable for all skin types, even for babies. With a long shelf life it is a popular choice in cosmetic applications. Not suitable for those with nut allergies.

Avocado Oil – Heavy, thick, green, semi-drying oil pressed from the avocado fruit. It has high concentration of vitamins A, B1, B2, D & E, fatty acids (particularly omega 3 & 6) and proteins making it suitable for skin regeneration and reduction of scars and dark spots. Penetrating deep into the skin it can promote the production of collagen and is therefore essential for aging skin. It is suitable for sensitive skins and can be used directly however due to the thick consistency it is mostly diluted with another form of carrier oil. Combined with another oil such as olive, coconut or almond and then heated it can make a great hot oil treatment for hair.

Camellia Oil – cold pressed from Camellia seeds grown in Asia this oil is silky, well absorbed and non greasy. It is a luxurious oil high in antioxidants, fatty acids (particularly omega 3, 6 & 9), rich in plant collagen and vitamins A, B, D & E. It penetrates deep into the skin and is easily absorbed. Used for skin it is excellent for anti aging and dark spots, scar healing and promoting elasticity. I personally used this during pregnancy to promote elasticity of the skin and reduce the appearance of stretch marks. A fantastic oil all round. It has also been used to condition hair, reducing breakage and hydrating dry ends.

Castor Oil – a thick and rich emollient oil pressed from the seeds of the plant, it is a drawing oil with a high concentration of triglycerides , vitamin E, with anti-fungal, anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties. Used to promote new hair growth due to the Omega 9 fatty acids as well as provide rich hydration. For this same reason it can be applied to the eyelashes as well. With its anti-inflammatory properties it can help with skin conditions such as eczema and skin rashes. Helps fight acne and it is an imperative part of the Oil Cleansing Method as it draws impurities out of the pores. If consumed it can be a laxative and should not be consumed by pregnant women (although I know a few who have tried to use it to bring on labour! Not advised!).

Cherry Kernel – a light emollient oil cold pressed from the Cherry kernel with a pleasant scent and similar properties to almond oil. It is high in natural antioxidants, fatty acids omega 6 & 9 and vitamins A & E. It is used in skin applications for acne prone skin and can help fade scaring.

Coconut Oil – a saturated fat in a semi solid state pressed from the flesh of the coconut. For cosmetic purposes coconut oil is refined, bleached and deodorised. Virgin coconut oil is cold pressed and retains its coconut scent. It has high concentrations of Lauric acid, capric acid, caprylic acid and vitamin E. It also has antimicrobial, antioxidant, antifungal and antibacterial properties. It can be used as an anti aging treatment as its antioxidant properties prevent the formation of free radicals and keep the connective tissues healthy. It also helps with brown spots. The aroma of virgin coconut oil is also a stress reliever when massaged on the forehead. Used to give shine to hair and stimulate hair growth as its proteins are essential for repairing damaged hair. It is easily absorbed and can be used as an all round body moisturiser, even for babies. It is also great as an after sun treatment as it helps heal and soothe sun exposed or burnt skin. The benefits of coconut oil are far too many to list, however it is an all round miracle oil and has many uses. One of my favourites is as an eye makeup remover as it hydrates the eyelashes which have been ravaged by mascara. Can be combined with Castor oil for makeup removal or used straight. Virgin coconut oil maintains more of its benefits and where possible should be used, however if the coconut scent is not desired, a refined version can be used.

Evening Primrose Oil – a light weight, soothing, emollient, nourishing and healing oil with anti inflammatory properties. High in antioxidants and gamma-linoleic acid (GLA) make this oil a healing oil. It is commonly used to heal skin conditions and acne, treatment of wrinkles and assists in blood circulation. Due to its expensive price it is normally blended with other oils.

Grape Seed Oil – light weight oil pressed from the seeds of the grape, it has no discernible scent and quick absorption. It has high fatty acid content (particularly omega 6) and antioxidants and is used widely in anti wrinkle creams and hair treatments. It contains proanthocyanidins, antioxidants that are apparently stronger and more beneficial than vitamin E. For this reason it has a strong effect on free radicals and can be so beneficial in anti aging preparations. It is generally used at night as it can leave a slight glossy film on the skin however it is suitable for all skin types. It can be used for the treatment of acne through its anti inflammatory and mild astringent properties.

Hazelnut Oil – cold pressed from the hazelnut kernel, this yellow penetrating oil has slight astringent qualities that can tighten and tone the skin. Containing fatty acids (particularly omega 6 & 9) and vitamin E it can be used to help repair and rejuvenate the skin. It can assist in controlling the skins secretion of oil and together with its astringent properties can be great for oily skin. The astringent properties can assist in tightening and toning the skin to maintain elasticity and firmness as well as promote cell regeneration. Commonly used in hair preparations to help hold colour for longer and to rehydrate dry hair by absorbing the vitamin E. It is also reported to filter the sun’s rays and is therefore used in sun preparations.

Hemp Seed Oil – cold pressed from the seed of the cannabis plant this oil is quick penetrating, high in proteins, vitamins E & D, essential fatty acids (particularly omega 3, 6 & 9) and GLA. It is highly recommended for dry skin due to its moisture locking as well as skin softening abilities. It is also used in anti aging preparations for its potential to stimulate cell regeneration. It can also be used for more manageable and glossy hair as it repairs damage and smooths with its high protein content. For this reason it can also be used for nail treatments.

Jojoba Oil – technically a wax cold pressed from the seeds of a desert plant. Naturally a golden colour it is also available bleached and clear, however I don’t believe this is necessary as the golden colour is lovely and it has no obvious or strong scent that would warrant bleaching. It is very similar to the skin’s natural sebum and is suitable for all skin types, including acne prone skin. It is rich in vitamin E and penetrates well providing for soft, smooth skin. It also contains some sun protective qualities and has the ability to reduce the appearance of wrinkles. It is a beautiful moisturiser for both skin and hair as it locks in moisture without being heavy, however due to it being rather expensive it is usually used in combination with another oil. But if you can afford the cost, it is well worth using straight with some essential oils added. This is definitely a favourite of mine and I use it in many of my products.

Macadamia Oil – cold pressed from the Macadamia nut, this oil is suitable for all skin types as it has excellent penetration and is considered safe for use in baby products. High in omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, it has regenerative and skin softening properties thanks to its high concentration of Palmitoleic acid which is found in the sebum of youthful skin. Widely used as massage oil it boasts anti inflammatory properties and feels lovely on the skin. Another personal favourite.

Olive Oil – rich, heavy cold pressed from the olive fruit suitable for normal and dry skins. Rich in antioxidants, anti inflammatory properties and vitamins A, B, C, D & E make it a useful addition to anti aging preparations. Also used as part of the Oil Cleansing Method to assist in unclogging pores and exfoliating the skin. One of the simplest exfoliants is a mixture of olive oil and either sugar or salt. This oil is widely available and has been used for centuries. Due to its heavy nature it is best used for a night time treatment. For hair it helps repair and add moisture to the scalp as well as a lustrous shine to your locks; commonly used as a hot oil treatment. Extra virgin is the best form to use as it retains the most beneficial properties.

Pomegranate Oil – cold pressed from Pomegranate seeds contains high amounts of fatty acids, antioxidants, anti inflammatory and regenerative properties. It improves skin tone and elasticity, fades lines and wrinkles and can be used to heal skin irritations. It can also be used to heal sun damaged skin and studies have found it to help prevent the development of cancer cells. Used in hair oils it can revitalise dull dry hair. This oil is very expensive and for this reason is used in small quantities; either included in a combination of oils or just a few drops applied to the face.

Rosehip Oil – cold pressed from the wild rose plant rich in omega 3, 6 & 9, GLA and vitamins A, C & E this oil is most commonly used to heal wrinkles, scars and stretch marks. Suitable for most skin types however it may not agree with some oily skin types. It is commonly used in anti aging and regenerative preparations such as serums and scar remedies. This oil is rather expensive and is mostly used in combination with another oil, or used neat directly on wrinkles and scars. A few drops warmed in the hands and then patted over the face or applied around the eye area are a great night time treatment for the face. While pregnant I used this oil combined with Camellia oil to prevent stretch marks.

Oils are a beautiful addition to any self care regimen, used on their own, blended or with essential oils. Experiment with your own blends based on the properties above and enjoy.

Namaste,

Gena