Essential Oils vs Carrier Oils.

Depending on the method of production and specific characteristics, the following types of natural oils are distinguished:

• Essential

• Carrier

Essential oils are multicomponent mixtures of volatile substances formed in various plant organs, and evaporate at ordinary temperature. Since essential oils can evaporate, they can obtain from natural sources by the method of distillation.

Essential oils have a completely different structure and are different from fatty ones, both in terms of chemical and physical properties.

Unlike carrier oils, essential oils do not leave stains on paper, and cannot be saponified by alkalis. During storage, they are not capable of becoming bitter, like carrier, but under the influence of light and air can oxidize.
Essential oils have a pleasant, characteristic smell, which is determined by applying 1 or 2 drops of essential oil to a piece of filter paper.

So, essential oil is a concentrated liquid containing volatile (evaporate at room temperature) chemical compounds of plants. An essential oil is “essential” in the sense that it contains the “essence” of the plant's aroma—the characteristic aroma of the plant from which it is derived.

Carrier Oils

This variety has the most synonyms and analog names: carrier, basic, transport, base, fatty, cosmetic oil. Oil is obtained from the seeds, nuts, and fruits of oil crops.

Extraction or pressing technology is used for production. Before going on sale, the product is cleaned. The accompanying technological techniques can include: bleaching, deodorization, refining, freezing.

A characteristic feature is that such drugs leave a thin protective film on the skin after application. It is a kind of barrier and protects the dermis from the influence of adverse climatic factors, as well as promotes moisture retention. For ingestion, massage and skin care, the product is used undiluted. It also serves as a base when mixed with essential oils. It is possible to prepare blending compositions from several bases.

Depending on the consistency, carrier oils are divided into:

• Liquid

• Solids or batters

All carrier oils have different combinations of useful properties and other characteristics that depend on the choice of oil. Natural lotions, creams, body oils, bath oils, lip balms and other nourishing and moisturizing products for the skin are produced using base/carrier oils.

So, carrier oils are fats obtained from plants that are used in various industries: cosmetic, food, medicine, industrial, etc.

In summary, both carrier oils and essential oils can be used in a variety of industries. Most often, we are used to using them in cosmetology. Each type of oil has specifics for their use, and first you need to study the effect of the oil on the body in order to avoid negative effects.