Explore the 5 Best Carrier Oils for Summer Skincare and Haircare

As the summer heat intensifies, our skin and hair require extra care and protection. One effective and natural way to keep them nourished and moisturized is by incorporating carrier oils for skin and hair care. Carrier oils not only hydrate but also provide various benefits depending on their unique properties. In this article, we'll explore the five best carrier oils for summer and delve into the reasons why they are ideal choices for your skin and hair during this season.

1.  Coconut Carrier Oil 

It is a popular choice for summer skincare and haircare due to its exceptional moisturizing properties. It contains lauric acid, which has antimicrobial properties, making it beneficial for protecting the skin from bacteria and fungi. Coconut oil's high fatty acid content helps lock in moisture, preventing dehydration caused by prolonged sun exposure. It can also be used as a natural sunscreen, offering mild sun protection. When applied to the hair, coconut oil penetrates the shaft, reducing protein loss and minimizing damage caused by UV rays.

2.  Sweet Almond Carrier Oil

Sweet almond oil is a lightweight and versatile carrier oil that is rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a fantastic choice for summer skincare and hair care. It is known for its nourishing and moisturizing properties, making it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. In the summer, sweet almond oil helps to hydrate and soothe the skin, leaving it soft and supple without feeling greasy. It also aids in reducing inflammation and irritation caused by sun exposure. When used on the hair, sweet almond oil adds moisture, improves manageability, and helps protect against environmental damage.

3. Apricot Carrier Oil

Apricot kernel oil is a light and gentle carrier oil that is perfect for summer skincare and haircare. It is rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins A and E, and antioxidants, making it highly nourishing and beneficial for the skin. Apricot kernel oil helps to moisturize and soften the skin, leaving it smooth and radiant. It is also known for its ability to improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. In addition, apricot kernel oil can be used on the hair to hydrate and condition, promoting healthy and shiny locks.

4. Rosehip Carrier Oil

Renowned for its regenerative properties, rosehip oil is an excellent choice for summer skincare. It is rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants, such as vitamin C and vitamin A, which promote skin cell turnover and repair. Rosehip oil helps fade hyperpigmentation and scars, evens out skin tone, and boosts collagen production, improving skin elasticity. Its lightweight texture absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue, making it ideal for hot and humid summer days. Additionally, rosehip oil can nourish dry and damaged hair, adding shine and vitality.

5. Grapeseed Carrier Oil

It is a lightweight and easily absorbed carrier oil that suits all skin types, including sensitive skin. It is rich in antioxidants, such as vitamin E and proanthocyanidins, which protect the skin from environmental stressors and help maintain its natural barrier function. Grapeseed oil is particularly beneficial for oily and acne-prone skin, as it helps regulate sebum production and unclog pores. Its high linoleic acid content promotes skin healing, making it an excellent choice for soothing sunburns. When applied to the hair, grapeseed oil adds shine, strengthens strands, and helps combat frizz.

How to Choose the Right Carrier Oil for Summer

When it comes to selecting the right carrier oil for summer, understanding your skin's unique requirements is key. The hot and humid weather calls for lightweight oils that absorb quickly into the skin and scalp without leaving a heavy or greasy feeling. While lightweight oils are generally suitable for most skin types during summer, it's essential to consider your individual skin needs. You may benefit from slightly richer oils if you have dry or dehydrated skin. By selecting the right carrier oil, you can ensure optimal hydration, nourishment, and comfort for your skin during the warmer months.

Choose the Right Carrier Oil Based on Your Skin Type

• Coconut oil is generally well-tolerated and can be used for skin care during summer. However, for individuals with oily or acne-prone skin, coconut oil may be comedogenic and potentially clog pores, leading to breakouts.  
• Rosehip oil is a lightweight oil that is suitable for most skin types, including during summer. However, individuals with extremely oily skin may find it a bit too rich for their liking. It's generally recommended for dry, normal, or combination skin, as it provides nourishment and promotes a youthful complexion. 
• Sweet almond oil is a versatile and gentle oil that is suitable for most skin types, including during summer. It is lightweight and easily absorbed, providing moisturization without feeling heavy or greasy on the skin.
• Grapeseed oil is lightweight and non-greasy, making it an excellent choice for summer skin care. It is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Grapeseed oil helps maintain the skin's natural barrier function and provides antioxidant protection.
• Apricot kernel oil is a lightweight oil that is well-suited for summer skin care. It is easily absorbed and suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin. Apricot kernel oil helps moisturize the skin without clogging pores.

Overall, while all of these oils can be used for skin care during summer, it's essential to consider your skin type and any specific concerns or sensitivities you may have to choose the best option for your skin. 

Ways to Use Carrier Oils on Skin and Hair

Carrier Oils for Skin

• Coconut oil: Sunscreen
• Rose Hip oil: Facial oil
• Apricot oil: Anti-aging
• Sweet Almond oil: Moisturizer
• Grapeseed oil: Eye Makeup remover

Carrier Oils for Hair

• Coconut oil: Sun protection
• Rose Hip oil: Hydrating
• Grapeseed oil: Heat Protectant 
• Apricot oil: Conditioner
• Sweet Almond oil: Frizz Tamer

1. Coconut Oil:

For skin: Coconut oil can be used as an all-purpose oil that is moisturizing, hydrating, sun protecting, and healing. It can also be used as a lip balm, cuticle oil, or as a natural highlighter on the cheekbones.

For hair: Use coconut oil as a deep conditioning treatment. Apply it to damp hair, focusing on the ends. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes or overnight before washing your hair. It can also be used as a frizz-taming serum by applying a small amount to dry hair.

2. Rosehip Oil:

For skin: Apply a few drops of rosehip oil onto cleansed skin as a facial oil. Gently massage it into the skin using upward motions. It can also be used as a spot treatment for scars and hyperpigmentation.

For hair: Mix a few drops of rosehip oil with your regular conditioner or hair mask to boost hydration and nourishment. Apply the mixture to damp hair, leave it on for a few minutes, and rinse thoroughly.

3. Apricot Kernel Oil:

For skin: Apricot kernel oil is a light, non-greasy oil that is easily absorbed by the skin. It nourishes and moisturizes without clogging pores, making it suitable for all skin types. It can help improve skin elasticity and maintain a youthful appearance.

For hair: Apply apricot kernel oil to the hair to nourish, condition, and soften dry or damaged strands. It helps to improve hair texture and add shine without weighing it down.

4. Sweet Almond Oil:

For skin: Sweet almond oil is lightweight and easily absorbed, making it an excellent moisturizer for summer. It helps nourish and soften the skin while promoting a healthy glow. It can also soothe and relieve skin irritations caused by sun exposure.

For hair: Apply sweet almond oil to the hair to moisturize it. Almond oil helps to tame frizz, improve hair manageability, and protect against environmental damage.

5. Grapeseed Oil:

For skin: Apply a few drops of grapeseed oil onto cleansed skin as a moisturizer. Massage it into the skin until fully absorbed. It can also be used as a gentle eye makeup remover by applying a small amount to a cotton pad and wiping away makeup.

For hair: Use grapeseed oil as a scalp treatment by applying a few drops directly to the scalp and massaging it in. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes before shampooing. It can also be used as a heat protectant by applying a small amount to damp hair before using heat styling tools.

Embrace the power of carrier oils to maintain healthy & nourished skin and scalp throughout the summer. Incorporating these chosen carrier oils into your skincare and hair care routine can help balance moisture levels, soothe sun-exposed skin, and protect against environmental stressors. Whether you're looking for a lightweight moisturizer, refreshing treatment, or added sun defence, carrier oil is perfect for your summertime needs.

Best Essential oils for summer like Lavender, Rosemary, Lemon, Sandalwood, or Peppermint can be mixed with carrier oils for added therapeutic benefits. When used topically, the ideal dilution ratio would be 3 to 4 drops of essential oil for every 10 ml of carrier oil.

Try our 100% natural and pure essential oils

Remember to perform a patch test before using any new oil to check for any potential allergic reactions or sensitivities. Additionally, adjust the amount of oil used based on your individual hair and skin needs.