Lipid oils and the different names they are known by.

What is in a name:

Carrier oils, base oils, lipid oils, plant oils etc., are all names given to practically the same product or family of products. They are plant oils used to “carry” another ingredient through the skin barrier or as a “base” to dilute a blend together. They are mainly composed of various fatty acid chains that cannot dissolve in water, but only in oils, aka “lipids”. They can also be referred to as “fixed” oils due to their relatively slow absorption rate on the skin, as opposed to essential oils, which are much more volatile.

Where do lipid oils come from:

Lipids make up the structure and function of living cells. They are made up of hydrogen and carbon arranged in various length chains.

Plant lipids are obtained by extracting the oil from the seeds of certain trees or shrubs and using it. They can be used independently or as part of a blend or product. Most can be applied to the skin with no dilution.

Lipid Oils contraindications:

Most lipid oils are safe to use undiluted on the skin and have excellent nourishing and protective qualities. They are extracted from the seeds and nuts of plants. If you are allergic to that nut or plant, it is therefore advised to avoid the plant extract that comes out of it. Even though the proteins related to allergic reactions are usually not present in the lipid oils, it is still advised to avoid using them and to find an alternative that can work similarly.