10 Best Carrier Oils For Skin For Nourishing : Expert’s Picks

Moisturize, nourish, and revive your skin with the pure goodness of essential oils.

Reviewed by Melissa Jannes, Licensed Esthetician Melissa Jannes Melissa JannesLicensed Esthetician facebook_iconlinkedin_iconinsta_icon
Written by Kirtana Divakar, MA (Journalism & Mass Communication) Kirtana Divakar MA (Journalism & Mass Communication) linkedin_icon Experience: 3 years
Edited by Medha Deb, Integrated MA Medha Deb Integrated MA linkedin_icon Experience: 5 years
Fact-checked by Monomita Chakraborty, MA (Journalism & Mass Communication) Monomita Chakraborty MA (Journalism & Mass Communication) linkedin_icon Experience: 4 years
Last Updated on

It maintains its liquid form, does not stain, and most importantly, it is versatile! Applying carrier oils on the skin is the best barrier against dryness or other irritants that may flare up your skin issues or cause any damage. The best carrier oils for the skin contain essential nutrients and active ingredients that help maintain your skin health. However, even though essential oils do not damage your skin, sometimes, they may be too strong for sensitive skin.

If you take a lot of interest in skin care ingredients, you may notice that some facial serums, oils, serums, and creams contain little amount of carrier oils that act as the primary ingredient. That is because they are full of vitamins, minerals, and other fatty acids that protect and improve the skin’s elasticity. The main advantage is there are no potential side effects, and people with any skin type can use them. “People with oilier skin are misled to believe oils are going to cause them more breakouts. Proper cleansing and use of oils has the potential to help bring beneficial ingredients to the skin that can actually reduce acne.” adds, Licensed Esthetician, Melissa Jannes. Moreover, avocado, jojoba, and castor oils can be categorized under carrier oils. So, to get a therapeutic experience and flawless, healthy skin, check out these 10 best carrier oils you can buy online. Also, these products have positive reviews from users. Keep reading for more information.

Top Picks
CHECK PRICE
Best For All Skin Types:Cliganic Organic Jojoba Oil
Price on Amazon
Best Non-Greasy:Majestic Pure Fractionated Coconut Oil
Price on Amazon
Best Multipurpose:Premium Nature Castor Oil
Price on Amazon
Price on Walmart
Best Moisturizing:Leven Rose Rosehip Oil
Price on Amazon
Best Lightweight:Life-Flo Pure Sunflower Oil
Price on Amazon
Price on Walmart
Best For Dry Skin:Maple Holistic 100% Pure Almond Oil
Price on Amazon
Best For Undereyes:PURA D'OR Organic Sweet Almond Oil
Price on Amazon
Price on Walmart
Best For Healing Skin:Shiny leaf Fractionated Coconut Oil
Price on Amazon
Best For Acne-Probe Skin:Pure Body Naturals Evening Primrose Oil
Price on Amazon
Best For Textured Skin:Handcraft Blends 100% Pure Avocado Oil
Price on Amazon
Price on Walmart

Top 10 Carrier Oils For Skin Available In 2024 With Buying Guide

1. Best For All Skin Types:Cliganic Organic Jojoba Oil

Cliganic gives us this USDA-certified cold-pressed 100% pure and natural jojoba oil to elevate our skin care regime one drop at a time. The oil’s consistency resembles the skin’s natural oils allowing it to absorb better and quickly without clogging any pores! It is also rich in vitamin B, C, and E. Together, they make the skin brighter, moisturized, and supple! This all-rounder can be used on your skin, scalp, and hair. Loaded with nutrients that are ideal for all skin types, including combination skin type, you too can enjoy the numerous jojoba carrier oil benefits with this product.

Package Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5.51 x 2.13 x 2.05 inches | Weight : 4 Ounces

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Pros
  • Organic
  • Non-greasy
  • Cruelty-free
  • Lightweight
  • Multipurpose oil
  • Ideal for all skin types
  • Does not leave a residue

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Cons
  • May lose properties and color if stored incorrectly
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Adding a drop or two of this oil to your face masks or moisturizers for bright, healthy, and smooth skin.
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Why We Think It's Worth Buying

This product is so liked by shoppers that it has gained over 49,983 great reviews on Amazon.

2. Best Non-Greasy:Majestic Pure Fractionated Coconut Oil

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4.6
Majestic Pure Cosmeceuticals Fractionated Coconut Oil Image: Majestic Pure

If you are on the lookout for balancing carrier oils but want to start slow and safe, this is your best bet! This Majestic Pure product is a fractionated and purified form of the traditional coconut oil found in your local market. The fractionating process essentially removes all the things we hate about coconut oil and leaves behind all the goodness. It is odorless, clear to a yellow tint, and non-greasy. It maintains its liquid form, does not stain, and most importantly, it is versatile! In addition to being used as a great moisturizing carrier oil, this product can also be used as an ingredient in at-home recipes for toothpaste, lip balms, and conditioners. This tops our list of being one of the best antibacterial carrier oils that can also be used as a natural deodorant, makeup remover, shaving cream, and for sunburn remedies. Here’s a video to help you know more about this product.

Product Dimensions: 2.72 x 10.04 x 4.61 inches | Weight: 1 Pounds

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Pros
  • Versatile
  • Odorless
  • Lightweight
  • Quick absorbing
  • Convenient to use
  • Does not leave a residue

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Cons
  • It may not have an extremely long shelf life.
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Why We Think It's Worth Buying

This product has made it to our top favorite list with more than 29,356 rave reviews on Amazon.

3. Best Multipurpose:Premium Nature Castor Oil

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Premium Nature’s cold-pressed castor oil is filled with fatty acids that are compatible with and complement all essential oils. Start by adding a few drops of essential oil in a small vial castor oil and watch your concoction transform. Castor oil proves to be a great carrier oil for the skin due to its versatility and ability to penetrate deep into the skin. It is commonly mixed with tea tree oil or eucalyptus oil to fight acne and blemishes. It also serves as a great rejuvenating hair oil that stimulates hair growth and promotes root strength and overall scalp health.

Product Dimensions: 1 x 1 x 4 inches | Weight: 4 Ounces

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Pros
  • Vegan
  • Organic
  • Cruelty-free
  • Absorbs quickly
  • Treats sunburns
  • Safe for children
  • Hydrating formula
  • Ideal for all skin types

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Cons
  • May lead to clogging of pores in rare circumstances

My Personal Experience

"I've been using Cold Pressed Castor Oil as my go-to skin care secret for a time now. Best feature? You may get everything you need for skin care needs at one place. This product contains fatty acids that support the formation of healthy tissues and works wonders on scars and blemishes. It penetrates deeply to maintain my skin smooth and supple as a natural skin moisturiser."


Cliganic Organic Jojoba Oil
Best For All Skin Types
Majestic Pure Fractionated Coconut Oil
Best Non-Greasy
Premium Nature Castor Oil
Best Multipurpose
Package Dimensions ‏ ‎ 5.51 x 2.13 x 2.05 inches--
Weight 4 Ounces 1 Pounds 4 Ounces
Dimensions- 2.72 x 10.04 x 4.61 inches 1 x 1 x 4 inches
Rating
Reviews49,98329,3561,269
Price$9.99$18.99$7.48

4. Best Moisturizing:Leven Rose Rosehip Oil

Leven Rose’s rosehip oil is a carrier oil for skin that is cold-pressed, unrefined, and contains no parabens, fillers, or additives. As a one ingredient formula, Leven Rose gives you 100% rosehip seed oil and nothing else. It works great with other essential oils and improves their application experience. These carrier oils include jojoba, tamanu, and argan oil. The vitamin E and C rich properties of rosehip oil make it great for the skin. You can apply this rosehip carrier oil to your face, around the eyes and lips, and any other parts of your body without hesitation.

Number of Items: 1 | Product Dimensions: 4 x 2 x 2 inches | Weight: 1 Ounces

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Pros
  • Potent
  • Contains omega-3
  • Moisturizing properties
  • Improves application for essential oils

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Cons
  • May oxidize if stored incorrectly

My Personal Experience

"My delicate skin and hair respond really well to this natural moisturiser. I dab it on my cheeks, lips, and eye area. This product has become a regular part of my beauty routine because of its natural ingredients and high vitamin E and C content."


protip_icon Pro Tip

Priming skin with rosehip oil before applying foundation can take your makeup to the next level. It nourishes the skin with essential vitamins and creates a dewy glow without feeling greasy.

5. Best Lightweight:Life-Flo Pure Sunflower Oil

Life-Flo scientifically formulates and uses the latest technology to manufacture this sunflower carrier oil. Unlike other traditional sunflower oils that have a dense texture, this one is gentle and lightweight. It is loaded with fatty acids and antioxidant vitamins. Although it serves as a great moisturizing agent, it is best used for reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. By mixing it with other essential oils, you can make an all-rounder regenerating oil, which helps you overcome skin damage and reduces aging signs. It is also a great carrier oil for aromatherapy and massage.

Product Dimensions: 2.5 x 2.5 x 8 inches | Weight: 1 Pounds

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Pros
  • Anti-aging
  • Lightweight
  • Ideal for all skin types
  • Hexane and paraben-free
  • Responsibly-manufactured
  • Protects skin from free radicals

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Cons
  • Some may find the smell overpowering

My Personal Experience

"Sunflower oil has been a surprisingly effective moisturizer for my face. Though it's runny and feels a bit oily, it offered a clear, soft, and youthful glow when applied in small quantities. The product is good for hair growth too. It might feel too oily for some, but my skin absorption was great; It left my skin more hydrated and supple, making it a definite repurchase for me."


6. Best For Dry Skin:Maple Holistic 100% Pure Almond Oil

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4.4
Cold Pressed Sweet Almond Oil Image: Maple Holistics

Are you looking for the best anti-aging carrier oils that not only fight acne but also reduce signs of aging? This Maple Holistic product is the answer! By itself, you can use this antioxidant-rich formula as an everyday moisturizing body oil that nourishes your skin while improving the moisture barrier. You can also mix this hypoallergenic carrier oil with other essential oils to make yourself an all-natural anti-aging and acne serum.

Product Dimensions: 1.6 x 1.6 x 6 inches | Weight: 4 Ounces

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Pros
  • Undiluted
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Replenishes dry skin
  • Therapeutic properties
  • Contains a blend of antioxidants and vitamins

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Cons
  • The scent may be overpowering for some
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Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The product has more than 1,603 reviews claiming its efficacy.

7. Best For Undereyes: PURA D’OR Organic Sweet Almond Oil

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4.5
PURA D'OR Organic Sweet Almond Oil Image: Purador

The PURA D’OR Organic Sweet Almond Oil is rich in vitamins A, B, D, and E. It can hydrate your skin and hair perfectly, soften and protect them against damage, and help reduce dark circles and puffy eyes. It has a light texture that allows the oil to get easily absorbed into the skin. You can mix this sweet almond oil with any essential oil for a relaxing body massage or bubble bath. The oil evens uneven skin tone and gives you naturally bright and glowing skin.

Number of Items: 1 | Product Dimensions: 2.5 x 2.5 x 8.5 inches | Weight: 1.1 Pounds

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Pros
  • USDA certified
  • 100% pure and natural
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Hexane-free
  • Cold-pressed
  • Unrefined
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Non-greasy

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Cons
  • Not quick-absorbing

8. Best For Healing Skin: Shiny leaf Fractionated Coconut Oil

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4.5
Shiny Leaf Organic Fractionated Coconut Oil Image: Shiny Leaf

The Shiny Leaf Fractionated Coconut Oil is loaded with 100% pure, natural, and refined coconut oil, which is one of the most versatile oils used for several purposes. It provides optimum hydration and assists in healing damaged skin. You can use coconut oil to remove makeup and tame frizzy hair. You can pair it with essential oil to add some fragrance to your everyday body moisturizer and use it for a smooth and even skin texture. It can also be used as a shaving cream or to soothe sunburns.

Number of Items: 1 | Package Dimensions ‏: ‎9.13 x 2.8 x 2.68 inches| Weight : 1.08 Pounds

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Pros
  • Hexane-Free
  • Paraben-Free
  • Sulfate-Free
  • Fragrance-Free
  • Color-Safe Formula
  • No additives
  • Lightweight

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Cons

None

My Personal Experience

"Trying this oil on my dry, and damaged skin was a revelation - a little goes far, leaving my skin hydrated without any distracting aroma. Its fragrance-free nature makes it an amazing addition to my natural skin and hair care routine. Perfectly non-sticky, it works well as an effective moisturizer post-shaving and a reliable makeup remover, especially around delicate eye areas. Its no-animal-testing policy is just an added bonus."

9. Best For Acne-Prone Skin:Pure Body Naturals Evening Primrose Oil

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4.4
Evening Primrose Oil - Liquid Image: Pure Body Naturals

Primrose oil is rich in omega-6 and 9 known for their calming, nourishing, and healing properties. Combine this Pure Body Naturals’ evening primrose oil with other potent acne-fighting essential oils to ensure a fast reduction of acne and blemishes. Due to its soothing properties, this product dilutes concentrated essential oils allowing them to work most effectively without causing any irritation. It is used independently to fight early signs of aging, such as wrinkles, smile lines, uneven roughness, and texture. It is also used on the hair to promote scalp health, leaving you with long, thick tresses.

Package Dimensions ‏: ‎5.71 x 3.39 x 2.32 inches| Weight : 4 Ounces

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Pros
  • Long-lasting
  • 100% pure oil
  • Healing and hydrating
  • Can be added to moisturizers
  • Reduces inflammation and irritation
  • Can be mixed with potent essential oils

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Cons
  • Scent may be overpowering for some

My Personal Experience

"This product eased my chest soreness and moisturized my skin beautifully. It helped reduce inflammation in my psoriasis spots. It's quite a beneficial oil despite the scent."


10. Best For Textured Skin: Handcraft Blends 100% Pure Avocado Oil

If you’re looking to nourish your skin and treat texture, this Handcrafts Blend 100% Pure Avocado Oil should be your pick. This oil is rich in avocados that have become a favorite amongst healthy eaters and skincare enthusiasts. The oil is unfiltered and contains vitamin E and fatty acids that make your skin smooth and supple. You can use it daily to treat acne and damaged skin. It can also be a part of your hair care regimen to promote growth. It is one of the most commonly used oils for aromatherapy when paired with an essential oil. This oil is best for dry, mature, acne-prone, and irritated skin.

Number of Items: 1 | Package Dimensions : ‎7.24 x 1.85 x 1.77 inches | Weight : 8.96 Ounces

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Pros
  • Fragrance-free
  • Reduces wrinkles and fine lines
  • Non-greasy
  • Natural sunscreen
  • Absorbs easily

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Cons
  • Thick consistency
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Why We Think It's Worth Buying

This product has garnered over 531 positive reviews on Amazon, and the number continues to grow.

Carrier oils can be a life-changing ingredient in your skin and hair care. Now that you have a fair idea of 2024’s top 10 carrier oils for the skin, here is a buying guide to help you make your purchase.

Guide To Choosing The Perfect Carrier Oil For Your Skin

Before purchasing a carrier oil for at-home use, it is best to keep the following things in mind:

  • Quality

This one is a no-brainer, but quality is an aspect you cannot overlook when picking out the best carrier oil for your skin. We suggest you opt for cold-pressed, 100% pure, unrefined oils, that do not contain any harmful substances that may lead to unwanted skin conditions like acne, itching, inflammation, etc.

  • Texture and property of carrier oil

Carrier oils are vast in variety and properties. While some are lightweight and fast-absorbing, others are thick and sticky, and both have different properties that assist in overcoming specific issues. Depending on the one that ticks your preferences, you can make your pick.

  • Compatibility with other essential oils

To be a suitable carrier oil, they need to be compatible with many essential oils. Lucky for us, all carry oils mentioned on our list are highly compatible and tend to have a soothing effect to counter potent essentials. These include jojoba oil, coconut oil, almond oil, and more.

  • Skin type

Skin type makes a lot of difference when it comes to choosing the right product for yourself. For dry skin, we recommend using tested avocado and olive oils as they both are lightweight carrier oils that can penetrate deep into the skin and provide moisture while stimulating collagen production and correcting skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea. For oily skin, pick products that are hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, and contain anti-inflammatory properties. Jojoba and sweet almond oil are both non-comedogenic carrier oils that can be considered. For sensitive skin, go for light, mild, and non-irritating oils. You could try sesame seed or apricot oil, as both of them are good carrier oils for skin. Always try choosing the ones that are dermatologist-recommended for better results.

The Bottom Line

Expert-recommended carrier oils are rich in vitamins B, C, and E and act as natural barriers to the skin and protect the skin from causing damage due to dryness and redness. In addition, they contain essential nutrients that penetrate deep into the skin and keep it healthy and glowing. All skincare products contain a percentage of carrier oils to improve skin elasticity. The Cliganic Organic Jojoba Oil is non-greasy in nature and is suitable for all skin types. The Majestic Pure Fractionated Coconut Oil is a great choice for those who want odorless and lightweight oil, while the Leven Rose Rosehip Oil is the perfect option for people who are looking for antioxidant-rich oil. Antibacterial carrier oils can also be used as a makeup remover, deodorant, and shaving cream. Use carrier oils along with your favorite essential oil to get extra benefits. They are usually organic and cruelty-free. However, some carrier oils are naturally lightweight while some are heavy; some are subtly aromatic, while some are strongly fragrant. So, read the reviews above well before you narrow down your ideal carrier oil.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

The author, Kirtana Divakar, is passionate about skin care and enjoys researching and reviewing new products for her readers. She researched the importance of carrier oils for your skin health and has shortlisted the best products after carefully going through reliable user reviews online. The oils in this article are lightweight, hypoallergenic, non-greasy, rich in fatty acids and vitamins, cruelty-free, easily absorbed, and hydrating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can two carrier oils be mixed together?

Yes, two or more carrier oils can be mixed together to reach the desired result. This is most often done to build massage oils and healing oils. However, it is important to exercise caution while dealing with oils that are potent.

Does putting oil make your skin dark?

Not always. Some oils such as coconut oil and olive oil tend to cause more tanning if applied before going into the sun. However, oils in themselves do not cause any oiling.

What are carrier oils for the skin?

Carrier oils are plant-based oils that are derived from seeds and nuts. Carrier oils dilute essential oils and carry them to your skin. They can be used alone or with other oils to nourish your skin.

How do you mix carrier oil for skin?

Keep the carrier oil to essential oil ratio in mind when combining essential oils and carrier oils. Ensure the essential oil is 0.5% to 2% of the combination and that there is far more carrier oil than essential oil.

Is aloe vera a carrier oil?

Yes, aloe vera oil is a great moisturizer and carrier base for essential oils.

Is baby oil a carrier oil?

No, baby oil is mineral oil. It should not be used as a carrier for essential oils because it restricts the skin’s ability to breathe freely and prevents moisture from being absorbed.

What is the thickest oil for the skin?

Castor oil is one of the thickest oils for the skin.

What is a good carrier oil for rose oil?

Coconut oil, jojoba oil, or olive oil are good for carrying rose essential oil. They will keep your skin safe and moisturized.

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Melissa Jannes
Melissa JannesLicensed Esthetician
Melissa Jannes is a licensed esthetician with 15 years of experience in cosmetology and skin care. She is also the owner of Maebee's Beauty Studio in Philadelphia and a National Educator for Universal Companies. Melissa's credentials include a valid license in the state of Pennsylvania, and she completed her formal education at the prestigious Beauty School of Middletown in 2008.

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Kirtana Divakar
Kirtana DivakarCommerce Writer
Kirtana has a postgraduate degree in mass communication and journalism from St. Joseph’s College, Bengaluru, and 3 years of professional experience. She developed a deep passion for writing after reading the brilliant works of Enid Blyton and Roald Dahl and has chosen a career that is driven by creativity.

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Medha Deb
Medha DebCommerce Editor
Medha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.

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Monomita Chakraborty
Monomita ChakrabortyBeauty & Lifestyle Writer
Monomita has a graduate degree in mass communication and video production from St. Anthony's College, Shillong, and a master’s degree in journalism and mass communication from the Royal Global University, Guwahati. She is also a certified skincare coach with a keen interest in skin, hair, tattoos, nail art, and lifestyle trends.

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