A base oil, also known as a carrier oil, is a vegetable oil that can be used neat on the skin or as a base for a blend with essential oil. The oil makes a massage feel more comfortable and ensures that essential oil is applied in a more diluted form. For many people, it is a staple of their natural skincare routine. If you\u2019re looking for a base oil like the ones you\u2019d buy in a chemist\u2019s, but want more choice in terms of how it feels on the skin, quality and application, then a specialist range is often much more practical. Do you use essential oils on the skin? Then read on Diluting essential oils safely<\/a> for percentages and skin safety.<\/p> The best base oil depends mainly on what you want to use it for and how your skin feels. When choosing, bear the following points in mind:<\/p> How does it feel on the skin? \u2013 Would you prefer a light oil that absorbs quickly, or a fuller, richer oil?<\/p><\/li> Application \u2013 do you use the oil for massage, daily skincare or as a carrier oil for essential oils?<\/p><\/li> Skin type \u2013 sensitive, dry or normal skin often requires a different texture.<\/p><\/li> Scent \u2013 some oils are virtually odourless, whilst others have a slightly stronger natural scent.<\/p><\/li> Processing \u2013 cold-pressed or refined \u2013 makes a difference to the flavour and ease of use.<\/p><\/li><\/ul> When looking for an all-round massage oil, many people opt for a gentle, neutral base. If you want extra comfort for skin that feels drier, a richer oil is often the better choice. If you\u2019re using essential oils, it\u2019s best to choose a carrier oil that spreads easily and doesn\u2019t have an overpowering scent.<\/p> Can\u2019t decide which oil to choose? Then use this handy guide Choosing a carrier oil for essential oils<\/a> to choose according to skin type and application.<\/p> When it comes to base oils, you\u2019ll often come across the terms \u2018cold-pressed\u2019 and \u2018refined\u2019. Cold-pressed oil is pressed at a low temperature. As a result, the oil\u2019s aroma, colour and natural character are usually better preserved. Such oil often feels a bit purer and fuller, but may also have a more pronounced aroma or deeper colour. Would you like to understand the differences properly? Read Base oil: the difference between refined, cold-pressed and macerated<\/a>.<\/p> Refined oil has been further purified. As a result, its scent is often more neutral, its colour lighter and the sensation on the skin somewhat more even. Many people prefer this when looking for a base oil for massage, for blending with essential oils or for use in a practice. Cold-pressed is therefore not automatically better for everyone. If you want an oil that is as natural as possible, then cold-pressed is the obvious choice. If, on the other hand, you\u2019re looking for a mild, neutral base, then refined oil may be a better fit.<\/p>Which oil is best suited to your skin and your needs?<\/h2>
Cold-pressed or refined?<\/h2>
A guide to popular base oils<\/h2>