There’s nothing quite like crafting your own essential oil blends, but before you dive headfirst into mixing, let’s talk about a crucial element—your base oil! Also known as carrier oils, base oils help dilute essential oils, making them safer for topical application while enhancing absorption and skin benefits. Using a high-quality base oil ensures your essential oils don’t just sit on the skin but are delivered effectively without irritation.
So, grab your favorite mixing bottle, and let’s explore the best base oils for blending!
1. Jojoba Oil (Simmondsia chinensis)
Jojoba oil isn’t technically an oil, it’s liquid wax! This makes it a fantastic base for essential oils as it closely mimics the skin’s natural sebum. It absorbs beautifully without clogging pores, making it ideal for facial and body blends.
How to use Jojoba Oil:
- Excellent for facial serums and scalp treatments.
- Non-greasy and fast absorbing for all skin types.
- Great for extending the shelf life of your blends.
2. Sweet Almond Oil (Prunus amygdalus dulcis)
Rich in Vitamin E and deeply nourishing, Sweet Almond Oil is perfect for hydrating dry skin and soothing irritation. It has a light, nutty scent that blends well with most essential oils.
How to use Sweet Almond Oil:
- Ideal for massage blends due to its smooth glide.
- Works well in body butters and lotions.
- A favorite for relaxing bedtime blends.
3. Fractionated Coconut Oil (Cocos nucifera)
Unlike solid coconut oil, fractionated coconut oil remains liquid at all temperatures. It’s lightweight, odorless, and has a long shelf life, making it one of the most versatile base oils.
How to use Fractionated Coconut Oil:
- Great for roller blends and quick absorption.
- Perfect for hair serums and scalp treatments.
- Ideal for DIY essential oil perfumes.
4. Grapeseed Oil (Vitis vinifera)
This light, fast-absorbing oil is a go-to for massage therapists. Packed with antioxidants, Grapeseed Oil is fantastic for oily and acne-prone skin.
How to use Grapeseed Oil:
- Excellent for deep tissue massage blends.
- Great for anti-aging skincare serums.
- Helps reduce the appearance of scars and stretch marks.
5. Argan Oil (Argania spinosa)
Argan oil is liquid gold from Morocco! Loaded with essential fatty acids, it’s a powerful moisturizer and helps restore skin’s elasticity.
How to use Argan Oil:
- Perfect for hair serums and leave-in treatments.
- Excellent for facial oils and anti-aging blends.
- Works well in cuticle and nail care blends
Essential Oil Dilution Ratios
Proper dilution is crucial to ensure essential oils are safe for topical use. Here’s a handy guide:
How to use Argan Oil:
- 1% dilution (gentle, for sensitive skin or children):
- 1 oz (30mL) base oil = 5-6 drops essential oil
- 2 oz (60mL) base oil = 10-12 drops essential oil
- 4 oz (120mL) base oil = 20-24 drops essential oil
- 2% dilution (daily use for adults):
- 1 oz = 10-12 drops
- 2 oz = 20-24 drops
- 4 oz = 40-48 drops
- 3-5% dilution (short-term use for specific concerns):
- 1 oz = 15-30 drops
- 2 oz = 30-60 drops
- 4 oz = 60-120 drops
Why Dilution Matters (Especially for Photosensitive Oils!)
Essential oils are highly concentrated, and direct application can cause irritation, sensitization, or burns.
Citrus oils like Bergamot, Wild Orange, and Lemon contain compounds that react with UV rays, increasing the
risk of sunburn. Proper dilution prevents these issues and enhances absorption.
Why Base Oils Are Better Than Alcohol for Dilution
While alcohol can disperse essential oils, it evaporates quickly and can dry out the skin.
Base oils nourish and protect the skin while providing a lasting medium for essential oil benefits.
For topical applications, base oils reign supreme!
Blend Recipes & How to Use Them
1. Relaxation Blend (For Massage & Body Oil)
- 2 oz Sweet Almond Oil
- 5 drops French Lavender
- 5 drops Clary Sage
- 2 drops Ylang Ylang Extra
Gently massage onto neck, shoulders, and feet before bedtime.
2. Energizing Blend (For a Morning Pick-Me-Up)
- 1 oz Jojoba Oil
- 4 drops Wild Orange
- 4 drops Rosemary
- 2 drops Peppermint
Apply to wrists and inhale deeply for an energy boost.
3. Grounding Blend (For Emotional Balance)
- 4 oz Fractionated Coconut Oil
- 10 drops Sandalwood
- 5 drops Patchouli
- 5 drops Frankincense
Use as a body oil or add to a roller bottle for on-the-go grounding.
4. Respiratory Support Blend (For Congestion Relief)
- 2 oz Grapeseed Oil
- 5 drops Eucalyptus
- 5 drops Peppermint
- 2 drops Frankincense
Massage onto chest and back for soothing respiratory support.
5. Mood-Lifting Blend (For Emotional Uplift)
- 1 oz Argan Oil
- 5 drops Bergamot FCF
- 5 drops Wild Orange
- 2 drops Ylang Ylang Extra
Apply to pulse points and breathe in deeply.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right base oil enhances the effectiveness of your essential oil blends. Jojoba, Sweet Almond, Fractionated Coconut, Grapeseed, and Argan oils each offer unique benefits for different skin types and applications. Remember, dilution is key to safe and effective aromatherapy!
Happy blending and may your essential oil journey be as smooth as your favorite base oil!
LIVE YOUR LIFE!
Fleur Aromatherapy 😊
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