Carrier oils are used as a base for massage with specific measures in drops of essential oils added to them, often around 5 drops per 20mls of carrier oil. Oils high in saturated fatty acids and ones containing Vitamin E tend to be more stable and have a longer shelf life than oils high in unsaturated fatty acids. Never use petroleum-based oils such as baby oil, as they dry out the skin.
Some suggested carrier oils can include:
Sweet almond oil - Usually used as 100% strength, can go rancid quickly.
Apricot kernel oil - Usually used as 100% strength but often diluted to 50% strength or less. It has a reasonable shelf life.
Avocado oil - A thick, heavy oil. It is often diluted with others using only 10% Avocado. It has a long shelf-life.
Canola (or rapeseed) oil - A thin oil. It can penetrate the skin quickly and may be used as 100% strength. It has a reasonable shelf-life.
Castor oil - DO NOT use in pregnancy. Castor oil can stimulate contractions.
Coconut oil - This is a popular oil. It can help with skin conditions. It is light and pleasant, and may be used as 100% strength, or as an additive. It generally has an unlimited shelf-life.
Corn oil - This is a light oil. It may be used as 100% strength and has a reasonable shelf-life.
Grape seed oil - This is a light, slightly astringent, oil for toning and tightening the skin. It may be used as 100% strength and has a reasonable shelf-life.
Jojoba oil - This penetrates the skin quickly and may be good for skin conditions. It may be used from 10% to 100% strength. It has a reasonable shelf life and can increase the preservation of the essential oils.
Macadamia nut oil - This can soften and heal the skin. It may help sunburn and may be used as 100%. It has a long shelf-life.
Olive oil - This can be good for skin conditions. It may be used up to 50% in strength and has a reasonable shelf-life.
Peanut oil - This should be used with care.