I've been using oils to take off my eye makeup for years. I love having a completely clean face at the end of the day but found that even the best makeup removers wouldn't cut it. I tried Neutrogena’s Eye Makeup Remover and various micellar waters, but I needed several cotton pads and a lot of pressure to remove everything. Plus, they stung my eyes. I knew there had to be a better way and guess what? There is! I first tried jojoba oil to remove my eye makeup and followed it with the CeraVe Hydrating Cream-to-Foam Cleanser with Makeup Remover, it worked like a charm! No more scrubbing, multiple washes, eyelash pulling, or teary eyes. I soon discovered that jojoba oil wasn’t the only effective option. I've been using grapeseed oil for over a year now, and I even turned to olive oil once when I was at a friend's house and she didn't have any makeup remover on hand. Now, I employ various oils for different purposes like priming, fuel for gua sha, and hydration. They're truly my secret weapons in skincare. 

What are carrier oils?

In the realm of skincare, carrier oils play a crucial role. Derived primarily from the fatty parts of plants, like seeds, nuts, and kernels, they act as a base or vehicle for other potent ingredients, such as essential oils.

Why are they important? Carrier oils ensure that concentrated ingredients are effectively and safely delivered to the skin. They dilute essential oils that might be too strong to apply directly, reducing the risk of skin irritation. But they aren't just fillers. Each carrier oil has its own set of therapeutic properties. Whether it's moisturizing, balancing, or providing essential fatty acids, they serve as more than just a backdrop.

Here is a round-up of my four favorite carrier oils:

1. Sweet Almond Oil

What is sweet almond oil? 

Derived from the almond tree seeds, sweet almond oil is a light oil with a slightly nutty aroma. Extracted from the kernels of the almond tree, it's a versatile base for many skincare products because of its light texture.

Sweet Almond Oil Benefits for Skincare:

• Moisturizing: Rich in vitamins A and E, it's great for hydrating the skin without clogging pores.

• Soothing: Especially beneficial for dry, irritated skin, and known to reduce puffiness and under-eye circles.

• Softening: Helps improve complexion and skin tone.

What is sweet almond oil used for?

I use it for gua sha-ing and to add an extra glow to my face. If my skin is dry, I will use this as a substitute for slugging with Vaseline or Aquaphor.

2. Rosehip Oil

What is rosehip oil?

Extracted from the seeds of rose bushes, rosehip oil boasts a subtle, woodsy aroma. It's considered a "dry" oil, which means it soaks into the skin easily without leaving a residue.

Rosehip Oil Benefits for Skincare:

• Anti-Aging: Packed with vitamins A and C, it stimulates collagen production and reduces wrinkles.

• Brightening: Evens out skin tone and helps fade scars and hyperpigmentation.

• Moisturizing: Essential fatty acids hydrate dry, itchy skin.

What is rosehip oil used for?

I use it for gua sha and like to use it in the AM as opposed to PM because the smell is not as pleasant as Sweet Almond Oil. I also find that the brightening effect does wonders as a primer before putting on makeup.

3. Jojoba Oil

What is jojoba oil?

Sourced from the seeds of the jojoba plant, this oil is unique for its similarity to the sebum (oil) our skin naturally produces. Technically, jojoba isn't an oil but a wax ester. It closely resembles human sebum (skin oil) and can act as a natural skin conditioner.

Jojoba Oil Benefits for Skincare:

• Balancing: Great for oily skin, as it can help regulate sebum production.

• Moisturizing: Provides long-lasting moisture and is easily absorbed.

• Non-comedogenic: Doesn't clog pores, making it ideal for acne-prone skin.

What is jojoba oil used for?

I use this to remove makeup and as a backup for moisturizer when I am running out. It is also great if you are running low on body lotion as well!

4. Grapeseed Oil

What is grapeseed oil?

As the name implies, it's extracted from grape seeds – a byproduct of winemaking. It's light and thin, often used in products for oily skin.

Grapeseed oil Benefits for Skincare:

• Lightweight: Suitable for even oily skin types, it's non-greasy and absorbs quickly.

• Toning: Rich in polyphenols, it can help tighten the skin and reduce the appearance of scars.

• Antioxidant-Rich: Packed with vitamin E, it fights oxidative stress and free radical damage.

What is grapeseed oil used for?

I use this to remove eye makeup and for scars.

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FAQ

Q: When to use carrier oils?

A lot of people are afraid to use oils, but there is a reason why these have been tried and true beauty staples for centuries. They do not clog pores, are natural, and have insane benefits for the skin. With that being said you can use all these oils every day! I use rosehip oil as the last part of my morning skincare routine so I can gua sha. At night I will use jojoba or grapeseed to remove my eye finishing it out with sweet almond oil on my under eye area. Sometimes I'll even gua sha again with that.

Q: Where should I use carrier oils?

This post focuses on where you can apply carrier oils to your face and use them on your body. I would use grapeseed oil on any scarring or stretch marks. You can use any of these carrier oils as moisturizers are combine them with your lotion for a smoother application and to make your moisturizer go further.

Disclaimer: The author is not a Dermatologist or Licensed Aesthetician, please consult with a Professional before trying any new products.