You either love it or you hate it – lavender. Nonetheless, lavender essential oil stands out for its soothing properties.
But did you know the effectiveness of lavender oil is significantly enhanced when paired with the right carrier oils? That’s right!
Here, I share my insights on the best carrier oils to use with lavender, based on their properties, benefits, and my personal experiences. Let’s get started!
9 Best carrier oils for lavender
1. Jojoba oil
Jojoba oil is my top choice for blending with lavender. Its composition closely resembles human sebum, making it a perfect match for all skin types. I’ve found that when combined with lavender, jojoba oil can help balance skin’s natural oils, making it ideal for both oily and dry skin. The lightness of jojoba oil ensures that the lavender doesn’t feel too heavy or greasy on the skin.
2. Sweet almond oil
Sweet almond oil is another favorite of mine. Rich in vitamins E and A, it is wonderfully nourishing and works particularly well for dry or sensitive skin. When mixed with lavender oil, it creates a soothing and hydrating blend. I often use this combination for a relaxing massage oil or as a nightly facial serum.
3. Fractionated coconut oil
Unlike regular coconut oil, fractionated coconut oil remains liquid at room temperature and is non-greasy. I use it when I want the moisturizing benefits of coconut without the heaviness. It’s an excellent medium for diluting lavender oil for use in rollerball applicators for stress relief or sleep aid. Or, make this calming magnesium body butter and rub it on your feet at night to help you fall asleep!
4. Argan oil
Argan oil, often called ‘liquid gold’, is a luxurious carrier oil that I adore. It’s packed with antioxidants and is incredibly hydrating. When combined with lavender oil, it not only nourishes the skin but also helps to soothe any inflammation. This blend is my go-to for a pampering facial treatment.
5. Grapeseed oil
Grapeseed oil is a lightweight, non-greasy oil that’s rich in linoleic acid and vitamin E. I find it particularly effective for oily or acne-prone skin. When mixed with lavender, it offers a gentle, calming effect while helping to manage excess oil production.
6. Apricot kernel oil
Apricot kernel oil is a lesser-known carrier oil that I have grown to love. It’s gentle, moisturizing, and absorbs well, making it excellent for sensitive skin. In combination with lavender, it provides a soothing and hydrating experience, perfect for delicate skin types.
7. Olive oil
Olive oil, a staple in my kitchen, also finds its way into my skincare routine. It’s rich in antioxidants and is deeply hydrating. When blended with lavender, it creates a nourishing and soothing mix, ideal for dry skin areas like elbows and knees.
8. Avocado oil
Rich in fatty acids and vitamins A, D, and E, avocado oil is deeply nourishing. Blend it with lavender for a rich, hydrating body oil. It’s especially good for mature or dry skin types (similar to lavender)!
9. Rosehip oil
Last but not least, rosehip oil is a luxurious carrier oil that has anti-aging properties. It’s rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants. When combined with lavender, it helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and improves skin’s overall texture.
How to use lavender oil with a carrier oil
Using lavender essential oil with a carrier oil is a common and effective way to enjoy its benefits for aromatherapy, skincare, or massage. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use it:
- Choose a carrier oil: First, select a carrier oil from the list above – coconut oil, jojoba oil, sweet almond oil, etc. The choice of carrier oil can depend on your skin type, the intended use, and personal preference.
- Determine the dilution ratio: The general guideline for essential oil dilution is 1-2% for adults, which translates to about 6-12 drops of essential oil per ounce (30 mL) of carrier oil. For sensitive skin, or use in children (only if appropriate), a 0.5% dilution (about 3 drops per ounce) is best. It’s important to adhere to these dilution guidelines to avoid skin irritation or adverse reactions, especially for those with sensitive skin or when using essential oils for the first time.
- Mix the oils: In a clean container, mix the lavender essential oil with the carrier oil at the determined dilution ratio. For instance, to prepare a 1% dilution in a 1-ounce (30 mL) bottle, you would add 6 drops of lavender essential oil to the carrier oil.
- Patch test: Before applying the oil mixture, do a patch test (especially if you have sensitive skin!). Apply a small amount on a small area of your skin and wait for 24 hours to check for any adverse reactions.
- Application: If the patch test is successful, you can apply the oil blend. Common uses include massaging into the skin, applying to pulse points (like the wrists or behind the ears), or using it for aromatherapy purposes like in a bath or as a sleep aid.
FAQs
Lavender essential oil blends well with a variety of other oils, especially those in the citrus, floral, and herb families. This includes oils like bergamot, chamomile, clary sage, geranium, jasmine, lemon, orange, patchouli, peppermint, rose, rosemary, tea tree, and ylang-ylang. These combinations can enhance relaxation, promote sleep, or boost mood, depending on the blend.
When using lavender essential oil in aromatherapy or for topical application, a common dilution ratio is 1 to 2 percent essential oil to carrier oil. This equates to about 6 to 12 drops of lavender oil per ounce (30 ml) of carrier oil, such as coconut, jojoba, or almond oil.
The “best” carrier oil often depends on personal preference and the intended use of the blend. Common carrier oils include jojoba oil, coconut oil, sweet almond oil, grapeseed oil, and olive oil. Jojoba oil is a popular choice as it closely mimics the skin’s natural oils, making it easily absorbable. Sweet almond oil is also favored for its nourishing properties and mild scent.
Avoid using lavender essential oil if you have a known allergy to lavender, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding (due to insufficient safety data), or before consulting with a healthcare provider if you have a pre-existing medical condition or are taking medication, as it can potentially interact with certain drugs.
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