Carrier Oils
Carrier oil, also known as base oil or vegetable oil, is used to dilute essential oils and absolutes before they are applied to the skin in massage and aromatherapy. They are so named because they carry the essential oil onto the skin. Carrier oils do not contain a concentrated aroma, unlike essential oils, though some, such as olive, have a mild distinctive smell. Neither do they evaporate like essential oils, which are more volatile. The carrier oils used should be as natural and unadulterated as possible. Organic oils should be used where possible. Cold-pressing and maceration are the two main methods of producing carrier oils. Mineral oil should not be used as it is not absorbed by the skin.
There is a range of different carrier oils, each with a various therapeutic properties. Choosing an oil will depend on the area being massaged, the presenting conditions and the clients sensitivity and requirements. For massage, viscosity is a major consideration; for example, grapeseed oil is typically very thin, while olive oil is much thicker. Sunflower, sweet almond and rapeseed oils have viscosities midway between these extremes. Carrier oils can be easily blended to combine their properties of viscosity, acceptability, lubrication, absorption, aroma and so forth.
Infused oils are a combination of a carrier oil and plant material and they can be either commercially or domestically prepared. A base oil, often sunflower, is placed in an airtight container with the appropriate plant material for a time. Calendula and carrot oils are produced in this way.
High quality oils sold for culinary use are often eminently suitable for massage use, and are economical; those obtained by cold pressing are preferred. All carrier oils should be kept cool, and away from strong light, to retard rancidification. Rancid oils should be avoided. Refrigerating oils helps preserve their freshness but some oils should not be refirgerated (e.g. avocado). Very cold oils may appear cloudy, but regain their clear state on returning to room temperature. The massage blend should be prepared at the time of treatment, not only because some of the oils have a short shelf life, but also to ensure the treatment is relevant to the clients needs on the day
Natural Essential Oils & Skin Care
UK MANUFACTURED, TESTED AND CERTIFIED
We supply 100% pure aromatherapy products in small pack and trade quantities. We stock over 200 different natural oils identified by botanical species and origin together with a full range of carrier oils, absolutes, and natural cosmetic bases.
Plantain offers full development of your own range of natural cosmetics, aromatherapy or pure essential oils to meet your requirements.
We offer OEM brand development of essential oils and cosmetics, developed to European regulations and manufactured in the UK to the highest quality. Our products conform to strict ingredient policies and we do not use any animal bi-products. No Parabens, or SLS. No artificial colours or chemicals.
We offer the option to develop and purchase naturally effective cosmetic and aromatherapy ranges with marketing support to promote and implement your personal range. We offer small pack and bulk quantities in Cosmetics and Essential oils together with a personal service and great product choice. Full testing facilities are available to meet EU regulations and full technical data available on our natural essential oils.
Our range of Carrier Oils include Apricot Kernal, Avocado, Borrage, Coconut Fractions, Evening Primrose, Grapeseed, Jojoba, Passion Flower, Peach Kernal, Safflower, Sesame, Sunflower, Sweet Almond, Vitamin E, Wheatgerm
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