Blending essential oils with carrier oils is both science and art. This guide covers the essentials for creating safe, effective blends at home.
Why Dilution Matters
Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts that must always be diluted before skin contact. Undiluted oils can cause irritation, allergic reactions, or burns. Carrier oils safely deliver essential oils to skin while providing nourishment in an essential oil blend.
Understanding Your Oils
Essential Oils: Volatile aromatic compounds from plants (flowers, leaves, bark) obtained through distillation or cold pressing. Highly concentrated—just a few drops deliver noticeable effects. Shop our First Defense, Clarity, Prana, and Harmony essential oil blends; and our Love and Dream body oils.
Dilution Rates and Usage Recommendations
|
Use Case |
Dilution Rate |
Number of Drops per 10ml |
|
Facial carrier oil |
0.5% - 1% |
1 - 2 drops |
|
General body oil |
2% - 3% |
4 - 6 drops |
|
Localized issue (e.g., pain) |
5% |
10 drops |
|
Short-term acute pain blend |
10% max |
20 drops |
This chart is a helpful reference for making safe, effective natural skincare blends at home.
Popular Carrier Oils Comparison
Carrier Oils: Vegetable-based oils that dilute essentials for topical use. Each brings unique properties:
|
Carrier Oil |
Skin Benefits |
Best Use |
|
Jojoba Oil |
Balances sebum, non-comedogenic |
Facial blends, acne-prone skin |
|
Fractionated Coconut Oil |
Lightweight, stable, and absorbs well |
Roller bottle recipes, massage |
|
Sweet Almond Oil |
Moisturizing, vitamin-rich |
Sensitive skin, dry patches |
|
Grapeseed Oil |
High in linoleic acid, fast-absorbing |
Oily or acne-prone skin |
|
Olive Oil |
Rich and protective |
DIY massage oil, body balms |
Each oil brings a unique texture and nutrient profile to your creations. Choosing the right one depends on your skin type and desired result.
The 30/50/20 Blending Rule
Create balanced aromas by mixing:
- 30% Top notes: Light, uplifting (lemon, peppermint)
- 50% Middle notes: Balancing heart (lavender, rosemary)
- 20% Base notes: Deep, grounding (sandalwood, vetiver)
Step-by-Step Process
- Calculate dilution ratio based on intended use
- Mix essential oils in glass bowl following 30/50/20 rule
- Add carrier oil slowly, stir gently
- Patch test on inner elbow, wait 24 hours
- Store in amber glass bottle in cool, dark place
Safety Tips
- Always patch test new blends
- Avoid citrus oils before sun exposure
- Don't use carrier oils in diffusers
- Label bottles with ingredients and date
- Consult professionals for pregnancy or medication concerns
Common Mistakes
- Over-diluting (less effective) or over-concentrating (skin irritation)
- Using photosensitive oils before sun exposure
- Mixing incompatible oil combinations
Blending essential oils is a meaningful way to create personalized skincare while connecting with nature's healing power.
FAQs
1. What is the rule for blending essential oils?
Use the 30/50/20 rule: 30% top notes, 50% middle notes, and 20% base notes to balance scent and evaporation rate.
2. What is the ratio for mixing essential oils with carrier oils?
It depends on the use case: 1% for facial use, 2%-3% for body oils, up to 5%-10% for short-term, localized use.
3. What essential oils should not be mixed together?
Avoid mixing oils with clashing scents or opposing effects (like stimulant and sedative oils). Be careful with photosensitive oils like lemon and bergamot, and always watch for potential skin irritants like cinnamon or clove.
4. What is the best carrier oil to mix with essential oils for diffusers?
None. Carrier oils are not intended for use in most diffusers. Stick to water and essential oils in ultrasonic diffusers.
5. How do I store my essential oil blends?
Use amber glass bottles, keep them in a cool, dark place, and label clearly. Follow basic blend storage tips to maintain potency.
