Almond Oil (Sweet) Sweet almond oil is obtained from the nut of the tree, which is native to Asia and the Mediterranean. This oil is a favorite carrier oil for essential oil aromatherapy blends, although it's often used by itself for moisturizing skin. The oil has no scent and is a great nutrient for softening and conditioning the skin. It's been known to be especially suitable for eczema, itchy, dry and inflamed skin. It's very lubricating but not very penetrating. Since it contains glucosides, vitamins and minerals, it makes a fabulous massage oil.

Aloe Vera Gel Aloe vera oil is a moisturizer that is very effective in helping heal skin irritation, promoting new skin growth and stalling the aging process. The finest most concentrated extract of aloe vera is obtained from the innermost filet of the aloe vera leaf. It has been known for generations as an excellent plant to have around to help reduce inflammation, pain and itching, to encourage skin rejuvenation, treatment of sunburn, to accelerate wound healing, a superb penetrating moisturizing agent, helping to stimulate the body's immune system while being naturally hypoallergenic with about the same pH balance of the skin. Aloe vera massage oil has great healing qualities which makes it a good choice to use on its own, or to include when mixing a massage oil or preparing a carrier oil blend for aromatherapy massage. Aloe vera is said to encourage skin rejuvenation, healing of wounds and treatment of sunburn. It is also used to help in relieving arthritis pain, improving blood circulation, reduces scarring, and has anti-inflammatory properties. It is a superb penetrating moisturizing agent, helping to stimulate the body's immune system while being naturally hypoallergenic with about the same pH balance of the skin. Aloe vera massage oil has great healing qualities as well, which makes it a good choice to use on its own, or to include when mixing a massage oil or preparing a carrier oil blend for aromatherapy massage.

Apricot oil was used against tumors and ulcers in England in the 1600s. Arab doctors used to recommend the oil extracted from apricot stones to cure hemorrhoids, aching noses and earache. They also used it to help to regulate moisturization and restructure the skin. Apricot kernel oil has moisturizing, nourishing and revitalizing properties and it is particularly helpful for dehydrated, delicate, mature and sensitive skin, and it helps to sooth inflammation. This finely textured oil spreads easily and is particularly rich in both oleic acid and linoleic. Apricot Kernel is a light but rich oil which is especially good for sensitive skin, as well as for and skin that is inflamed or dry. It can be used alone or in massage and is used quite often in lip balms and creams. It is particularly helpful for dehydrated, delicate, mature or sensitive skin. It has a high vitamin A content.

Avacado Oil is often used for clients with dry or mature skins, or people suffering from eczema or psoriasis. It is very useful when treating sun or climate damaged skin that is dehydrated and undernourished as it is said to help with regenerating the skin and softening the tissue. Although it can be used pure, it is in most cases mixed with another carrier oil, such as Almond oil, or Grapeseed oil to make up 10% of the carrier mixture. Avocado oil is easily absorbed into deep tissue, and has wonderful emollient properties. Avocado oil nourishes and restores dry, dehydrated, and mature skin. It is a rich, heavy oil that is best blended with other carrier oils. Skin problems, especially eczema and psoriasis, respond to its high content of vitamins A and E. Avocado oil is added to carrier oils, in a 10%-20% dilution, as an aid to skin moisturizing. This is a highly therapeutic oil which is rich in vitamins A, B1, B2, vitamins D and E, protein, pantothenic acid, and fatty acids.

Beeswax has the sweet smell of honey. It adds many wonderful properties to various bodycare products. Beeswax makes a harder bar of soap and is also used in creams, lotions, lip balms and candle making.

Borage Oil Comes from the leaves and seeds of the Borage plant and has the highest level of Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA) vitamin F, of any of the oils. These GLA's are essential fatty acids that the body does not produce, but is needed for healthy skin. Studies have shown that the topical application of this oil can repair severely dry skin. This wonderful oil is easily absorbed by the skin, and has shown to reduce epidermal water loss for several days after application. Use this exotic oil in eye creams, lotions, face creams, daily face scrubs, soap, lotion bars, body butter, foot balms and lip balms. . Is said to be excellent in treating many skin conditions. Borage is usually blended in a small (often 10%) dilution with other carrier oils. Excellent for all skin types. Best to use in a blend of 10% as it is a rich and expensive oil. A good skin rejuvenator. Borage seed oil is clear and slightly thick with very little odor. It contains an abundance of gamma linoleic acid (GLA), an essential fatty acid that the body uses to manufacture prostaglandins-hormone like substances that balance and regulate cellular activity. It reduces the aging process of the skin and reverses damage from ultraviolet rays. This oil is used to treat PMS, endometriosis, and menopausal discomforts, as well as for psoriasis and eczema.

Calendula Oil An infused oil containing the active principles of the marigold flower and is sometimes referred to as Marigold oil. It is traditionally used for skin care in the Mediterranean to help preserve skin freshness, protect skin from over-drying, sun-induced wrinkles and sun caused aging during summer time. The anti-aging properties of Calendula oil, known to ancient Egyptians, may be related to the high content and diversity of carotenes, phytosterols, polyphenols and EFAs.
Calendula oil is good for all skin types, and is a valuable oil for treating wounds, scars, burns, inflammation and other injuries as it aids in tissue regeneration. It has anti- inflammatory, anti-spasmodic qualities and blends well with Hypericum (St. John's Wort). It is best when infused in a light textured oil. Calendula is a tonic, soothing, restorative oil, good for any type of skin, but especially suitable for dry skin. When used regularly the oil imparts deep olive shine to the skin, and helps protect skin from age related thinning and drying out. The infused oil has been used externally for slow healing wounds, bed sores, bruises, cuts, scratches, varicose or broken veins, eczema, gum inflammation, hemorrhoids, persistent ulcers and burns. A common mix is 25% infused calendula oil with 75% of a fixed oil. Calendula is beneficial when used alone on small areas such as facial broken veins or a baby's bottom.

Camellia oil can be applied on the face, on the neck and on the hands. Camellia oil is also used in medicine where it is an excipient. Camellia oil has excellent skin and hair conditioning properties and presents skin restructuring and moisturizing virtues. Given these properties, it is a good active ingredient in: body moisturizing after-sun milks, emollient gels for around the eyes, softening hand creams, nail strengtheners, restructuring creams for damaged skin, moisturizing creams for dry skin, nourishing shampoos and lotions for dry, damaged and delicate hair and after-sun products for thin and normal hair and most all products for normal and mature skin. Camellia oil is expressed from the seed.

Carrot Seed Oil Good for skin tone, it is rejuvenating and nourishing. Good for prematurely aging skin and dry, itchy skin. This oil is rich in beta carotene as well as minerals and vitamins, especially vitamin A. It is a bright orange color. Carrot seed oil also assists in removing toxin and water build up in the skin giving it a fresher, firmer appearance. The aroma is earthy with a medium perfumery note. It does not have a particularly pleasing aroma on its own, but blends well with others like orris, violet and mimosa. Considered to be particularly beneficial for dry, mature skin-types and will help to restore elasticity to the skin and could therefore reduce wrinkles. The root oil is used in food coloring, (yellow), and in sun tan lotions.

Castor Oil This oil, derived from the castor bean and obtained by cold pressure, is rich in fatty acids and very moisturizing and lubricating to the skin in general. It acts as a humectant, attracting moisture to the skin. In the Canary Islands the oil is used to prevent sore nipples in nursing mothers and is also rubbed onto their scalps to prevent post natal hair loss.

Cherry Kernel Oil-Cherry kernel oil is a stable, emollient oil, high in oleic acid, vitamin A and natural tocopherols. It is similar in properties to sweet almond or peach kernel oils and is used in a similar manner. Cherry kernel oil is useful as a light, moisturizing oil for lip balms, body butters, salt and sugar scrubs and massage or bath oils and works well as a penetrating carrier oil in aromatherapy.

Cocoa Butter Pressed cocoa butter is the fat which is obtained by hydraulic pressing of cocoa nib or cocoa mass (cocoa liquor) obtained from cocoa beans. It could be filtered or centrifuged. This is an all natural process and no solvents are used. If deodorized, it's by steam and/or vacuum Both types are fabulous for balms, lotions, creams, and soaps because of cocoa butter's softening and skin-healing properties. Regular cocoa butter has a beautiful aroma of chocolate. Deodorized cocoa butter has the faintest aroma of regular cocoa butter....the faintest smell of chocolate.

Coconut Oil (76° )Coconut oil is obtained from copra, the dried "meat" of coconut. Distillers separate the copra from the hull of the coconut. It is dried, crushed, and then expressed to remove the oil. This coconut becomes a liquid at 76 degrees. It is semi-liquid at room temperature. A percentage of coconut oil in cosmetics is moisturizing; too much of it can be drying. Its saturated nature resists rancidity and makes a very hard soap, while at the same time producing a fluffy lather. Soapmakers usually combine coconut oil with olive, palm, palm kernel or castor oils for an all-vegetable soap.

Coconut Oil, VirginThis is what coconut oil really and truly smells like! When you take a whiff of this virgin, pure oil you will be transported to an island somewhere in the Caribbean or the South Pacific. This oil is processed by technology developed in Japan using a centrifuge and gravity. They harvest the coconut and the coconut milk is extracted by centrifuge with a density separator. Both the fractionated and virgin coconut oils come directly from the islands. It has the most intoxicating coconut fragrance one could ask for. Its texture is a soft-solid with a creamy texture while at room temperature.

Comfrey is great for sunburns, wounds, and sore muscles. It is an excellent cell and bone healer, and has long been employed domestically in lung troubles and also for quinsy and whooping-cough. This oil is of much value as an external remedy, both in the form of fomentations, for sprains, swellings and bruises, to severe cuts, to promote healing of boils, abscesses, and gangrenous and ill-conditioned ulcers. Comfrey is also known to be effective for eczema and dry skin.

Emu The emu oil is rendered from a thick layer of fat on the back of the emu bird, yielding 5 - 7 liters of unsaturated, non- toxic, highly penetrating oil. It is generally between creamy pale yellow or creamy white depending on if it has been rectified or not. It contains a high level of linolenic acid, known to temporarily ease joint pain. It also contains oleic acid, which produces an anti- inflammatory effect. It has virtually no aroma and does not clog pores. Emu oil aids in the relief of burns, skin ailments, sore joints, muscle aches etc. It is also good for psoriasis, eczema, scarring, swelling, latex dermatitis, rhinitis, keloids, contact dermatitis, hemorrhoids, rheumatism, arthritis, bursitis, callused feet, sprains, chapped skin, sunburn, and many other skin ailments. It is a natural emollient that is suitable for both skin care and cosmetics. Its unique penetrating properties make it an excellent carrier vehicle for other ingredients to help dermal penetration. Massage therapists and chiropractors use emu oil as it helps the muscles and joints stay relaxed longer after treatment. It also helps milden bar soaps to make them less drying. Today, more and more it is being added to products worldwide to increase their effectiveness. It is found in muscle pain relievers, skin care products, and natural soaps.Some of its properties are: Anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, skin regenerative, high in oleic acid (oleic acid has better skin-penetrating qualities than vegetable oils), moisturizing, doesn't clog pores, penetrates through several layers of skin. Some of its uses are: * Assists with the healing of bed sores.

* When applied to a new cut, scrape or burn, assists with prevention of scars.
* Provides sunburn relief.
* Massage on muscle aches and strains.
* Helpful for arthritis pain and inflammation.
* Provides canker sore relief.
* Used for diaper and heat rash.
* Assists with prevention of stretch marks; once stretch marks are present, assists with eliminating accompanying dryness and itchiness. Makes tight skin more supple.

Emu oil, when first applied to the skin, is greasy; however, within 5-10 minutes one notices that the oil is slowly being absorbed by the skin leaving a great feeling of overall smoothness on the skin. You can use it straight or you can add essential oils of your choice. The bottle of Emu oil should be shaken ever so lightly to mix the contents prior to each use.

Evening Primrose This plant was used by the North American Indian medicine men to make an infusion for healing wounds. Evening primrose oil is exceptionally high in fatty acids, and especially in gamma linolenic acid (GLA) which nutrition wise is important to the body, as it affects many of the enzyme functions in the body. Evening primrose oil is used as a carrier medium for essential oils, it is important to note that it is an exceptionally fine textured oil and has superb moisturizing properties and used externally it is indicated as effective in helping with eczema, psoriasis, pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS) rheumatoid arthritis as well as weight reduction. The aroma is light and sweet. Evening primrose oil can be used for facial massage, but since it is rather a sticky oil it should be mixed with another oil, such as grapeseed oil.

Fractionated Coconut Oil-Fractionated Coconut Oil-Fractionated coconut oil contains only the medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) of coconut oil, making it a liquid and very stable oil. It is produced through the hydrolysis of coconut oil and is then fractionated by steam distillation to isolate the MCTs. Fractionated coconut oil has indefinite shelf life and is a light non-greasy, non-staining, liquid oil. It is great for use in massage, toiletries and soap. Fractionated coconut oil is a very good choice for use with essential oils, as it helps carry therapeutic oils under the skin. It can be used in creams, lotions, bath oils, bath salts and soap. Fractionated coconut oil is especially useful in face creams where a light oil is desired. It is a good substitute for sweet almond oil if you are worried about rancidity or a short shelf life.

Glycerin An odorless, colorless, syrupy derivative of olive oil, glycerin has long been used as a benign solvent, lubricant, and preservative. It is sweet tasting, warming to the skin, and edible.

Golden Jojoba In reality jojoba oil is not an oil but a liquid wax, and is pronounced "ho-ho-ba", and only became important in the 1970s when whaling was banned, since jojoba oil which is derived from the jojoba bean, has almost the same properties as the oil obtained from the sperm whale. Since it is composed of wax esters, it is an extremely stable substance and does not easily deteriorate. The structure of jojoba oil closely resembles that of your own skin sebum, is an excellent moisturizer and is ideal for all skin types. It contains myristic acid which also has anti-inflammatory actions. It can in most cases be used on acne skin without any problems as it helps to control acne. It is easy to understand why jojoba oil is an all-time favorite to use as a carrier oil, as well as added to skincare preparations, since it penetrates the skin easily and is suitable for all skin types. The aroma is light to medium, not as sweet as the nut oils. When used as a massage medium, it acts as an emulsifier with the skin's natural sebum and gently unclogs the pores and lifts grime and imbedded impurities. It can be used pure in massage, or can be mixed with other carrier oils, on the face, body, or hair. Great for mature, aging skin and wrinkles although good for all skin types.

Grapeseed Oil is an ecologically sound product that is made from the seeds of grapes after the wine is pressed. Grapeseed oil is high in vitamin E and is 76% essential fatty acid, linoleic acid (also known as Omega 6). It is low in saturated fat, contains natural chlorophyll and valuable antioxidants (known as proanthocyninidins), and has a good shelf life. Rich in vitamins, minerals and linoleic acid. It's a light and penetrating oil for massage. It's also used in lotions, balms, creams, and soap. The skin absorbs it easily; it has no perceptible odor. Since it is slightly astringent, it tightens and tones the skin. Will not aggravate acne. This is one oil that is nearly impossible to extract through cold pressure due to its very low oil yield.

Hempseed Oil penetrates the skin to remoisturize, revive and repair cells damaged by the elements; sun, wind & ultraviolet light. It may be used as a massage or moisturizing oil by applying it to the skin as desired. It may also be added to shampoo or conditioner to rejuvenate the scalp. If you choose you may add your favorite essential oil for fragrance. This carrier oil is very high in unsaturated fatty acids, which makes it a great moisturizer for dry and devitalized skin, especially since it absorbs into the skin very quickly. Hemp seed oil is also a cell regenerator and helps soothe muscles. It contains more naturally occuring essential fatty acids than any other plant-derived oil and a perfect 3:1 Omega-6: Omega-3 EFA ratio. The oil also contains the natural anti-oxidant vitamin E and sterols which blocks cholesterol absorption. This is one of the more effective skin-care oils with a wonderful nutty smell. Hemp seed oil is derived from the seed of the plant Cannabis sativa, best known as the marijuana plant, and least known for its many productive uses. Hemp seed oil has none of the intoxicating properties of the leaves. Since hemp cannot be legally grown in the U.S., the supply of its oil is low and the price high.Hemp seeds produce a vegetable oil that is high in protein and can be used within a variety of foods and cosmetics. Its high linoleic and linolenic acid contents make it vulnerable to spoilage. Alpha linolenic, linoleic and oleic acids-the essential fatty acids known as the omegas-make up 88% of the total fatty-acid content.

Hempseed oil is one of the world's richest sources of poly-unsaturated fats, including both of the essential fatty acids (Omega 3 and Omega 6) and GLA (gamma Linolenic acid), which make it an excellent natural emollient and moisturizer. Body care products containing hemp seed oil can reduce skin discomfort by soothing & restoring dry or damaged skin and increasing the natural moisture retention capacity. With regular use, body care products containing hemp seed oil can help slow down the effects of skin aging and leave the skin smooth, soft and moisturized. . The metabolic slowdown associated with aging also leads to dry skin conditions. Slower metabolism and growth of cells in the basal layer of the epidermis causes a decline of ceramide content. Both contribute to the formation of wrinkles and overall skin aging. The application of Omega 6 fatty acids in body care products partially compensate for the lower ceramide levels in the skin and the resulting aging effects. EFA-rich oils are becoming increasingly popular in massage therapy due to their ability to penetrate and be absorbed into the skin. Thus, EFA-rich hemp seed oil makes an excellent ingredient for massage oils in addition to hand & body lotions, moisturizing creams and lip balms. A major consumer concern, with respect to skin sensitivity or allergic reaction to hemp seed oil, has not proven to be a problem to date.

Kokum Butter-Kokum butter is obtained from the Indian tree Garcinia indica. It is used in skin care products because of its ability to soften skin and heal ulcerations and fissures of lips, hands and soles of feet. Kokum butter helps reduce degeneration of the skin cells and restores elasticity. Use kokum butter is soaps, balms, belly balms, foot care products and other emollient skin treatments. Efficacy: Fatty acid levels are low, indicating an absence of any powerful lipolytic activity. Prevents drying of the skin and development of wrinkles. Reduces degeneration of skin cells and restores skin flexibility. May enhance stability of certain emulsion systems.

Kukui Nut Oil-Kukui nut oil is high in linoleic and linolenic acids which are essential fatty acids vital for the metabolism of healthy skin. Vitamins A, C and E are added to stabilize the oil. Kukui nut oil is easily absorbed by the skin and therefore it makes a wonderful massage oil. It soothes irritated, sunburned, or burned skin. Surveys have shown that it can help relieve itchy, dry skin due to eczema, psoriasis and rosacea. You can use up to 10% for a great bar of soap or use 5-10% in your creams, lotions, balms and scrubs. Hundreds of years ago, Hawaiians discovered that when the shells were removed from Kukui nuts and the kernels lightly roasted, a clear oil could be extracted from them. They found that the oil was an excellent penetrating oil and it was, and still is, widely used as a remarkable skin-care aid and natural moisturizer. When smoothed on the skin, Kukui oil is a soothing balm for burns of all kinds, including sunburn, skin irritations and other skin problems. After hundreds of years of use and experience, Hawaiians believe that Kukui nut oil is effective for dry, chapped skin, psoriasis, acne and eczema. Hawaiians use the oil today as their preferred skin-care product that helps protect their skin from harsh sunlight, drying winds and salt water.
This treasured health and beauty secret has been rediscovered by Oils of Aloha and is produced today in the same pure form as it was centuries ago. Kukui nut oil is unique among moisturizing oils.

Macadamia Nut It is one of the only plant oils that contains high amounts of palmitoleic acid, which is also normally found in the sebum of man, and the oil therefore has great affinity to the skin. It is very emollient, and is therefore great for dry and ageing skin. In aged skins, where sebum production has reduced, Macadamia oil can be of great benefit. Macadamia massage oil has great emollient properties and for this reason is good to include in a base massage oil blend. Macadamia oil is great to use since it is readily absorbed and helps to soften the skin and is also said to help reduce fine lines when used in facial massage

Mango Butter Mango butter is taken from the seed kernels of the fruit of the mango tree. It is similar in texture to shea butter and is much softer than cocoa butter. It has a very light yellow/mango color.

Meadowfoam Seed Oil -When added to cosmetics and creams, it re-moisturizes the skin in ways no oil can. In lipsticks and balms, it helps revitalize dry, cracked lips and they stay moist longer. Is currently being used in the following types of products: suntan lotions, eye shadows, eye liners, mascara, hand/face creams, cuticle repair lotions, body oils and creams, shaving creams, foundations, rouges, face powders, lip sticks, shampoos, and hair/scalp treatments. . Meadowfoam is also a renewable plant crop, thus ensuring a continual source of oil far into the foreseeable future. Meadowseed oil has the added benefit of enhancing the properties of other oils when added to them. Less expensive oils can be mixed with meadowseed oil without the loss of the qualities of either oil. In fact, it is believed to more oxidatively stable than any other vegetable oil known, thus it can increase the stability of the oils it is added to. When added to cosmetics and creams, Meadowfoam Seed Oil re-moisturizes the skin and hair in ways no other oil can. It adds vitality to hand creams and hair creams by forming a membrane to prevent moisture loss and provides an excellent cushion feeling on the skin. As a liquid with good surface tension, it is conducive to good spread on the skin making an excellent ingredient for all cleaning products, massage creams, and multiple type skin products.

Monoi Oil This oil is super in lotions, soaps, lip balms, lotion bars and just about any of your handmade bath products. Monoi "de" Tahiti is not a oil that come direct from a plant. The secret of Monoi de Tahiti lies in the delicate 100% natural vegetal blend that is extracted from the rich Tahitian Tumu Ha'ari (Cocos Nucifera) palm tree and from the local "Tiaré" (Gardenia Tahitensis) flowers in Tahiti.

Olive oil is a good oil for skin care, especially mature, inflamed, or dry skin, as it provides disinfectant, antiwrinkle, and wound healing properties. It makes an excellent conditioner for hair and nails, and is used as a remedy for arthritis. It is good for making salves, cosmetics, and has good medicinal properties. This oil creates a long lasting, non-drying mild soap with creamy lather, and no other soapmaking oil contributes its unique set of characteristics. It retains moisture to the skin by forming a breathable layer, and like jojoba oil, shea butter and kukui nut oil it does not block the skin's natural functions while performing is own. Some people may find certain grades unpleasantly strong smelling.

Palm oil is produced from the pulp or flesh of the fruit of the oil palm. Palm oil contains an equal proportion of unsaturated acids, containing about 40% oleic acids (monounsaturated), 44% palmitic acids and oleic acids, which are also the major fatty acids produced by the body. It is a natural source of Vitamin E, the tocopherols, and tocotrienols and is also a very rich source of beta-carotene, an important source of Vitamin A. Palm oil is physically and chemically different from either palm kernel or coconut oil and should not be considered similar to these oils. Palm oil also contains a much higher proportion of palmitic acids than other fats and oils. It is also known as vegetable tallow and adds firmness to bar soaps, giving a pale white-yellow color.

Peach Kernel Oil-Peach kernel oil is very similar to apricot kernel oil. It is a light, penetrating oil that is good for mature or sensitive skin. Use peach kernel oil to make light creams and lotions, massage oils and more. Peach kernel oil is a great oil for lip balms because it absorbs easily and does not leave a greasy feeling. It can also be used as a substitute for sweet almond, grapeseed or apricot kernel oils.

Pumpkin Seed Oil from pumpkin seeds has been used across the world as a treatment for sores, ulcers and other skin problems. Its high sterol and vitamin E content makes it ideal for this purpose.The oil produced from the seeds is reputed for it's extraordinary wealth of vitamins A, E, C and K. Fresh oil contains more than 60% unsaturated fatty acids. It also contains proteins and a number of ingredients which will bring you vitality. Pumpkin seeds contain sizeable amounts of protein (35%) and approximately 50% fatty oil, whose fatty acid profile is dominated by unsaturated fatty acids, namely linoleic and oleic acid. There are many trace constituents like tocopherols (0.1%) and phytosterols (total 0.1 to 0.5%); of the latter group, many are specific for the family of even the species. Although Pumpkin seed oil can be classified as a "specialty" carrier oil, some aroma therapists like to use it since it is high in protein, zinc as well as polyunsaturated fats.

Rice Bran Oil-Rice Bran Oil-Rice bran oil is particularly high in fatty acids and rich in unsaponifiables. It has some anti-oxidizing properties as well as some sunscreen properties. Use Rice bran oil in formulations where softening and moisturizing properties are needed. It is good for mature, delicate or sensitive skin. Rice bran oil is especially good for face and hair formulations or baby formulations.

Rose Hip Seed Oil has very high levels of linoleic and linolenic fatty acids. The aroma is mild and perhaps earthy. It has been identified that the presence of Trans-Retinoic acid is the component responsible for the remarkable pharmacological properties of Rose Hip oil. Trans- Retinoic acid is a derivative of Retinol (Vitamin A) and is marked as Tretinoin. It is high in GLA, and has recently been used to help reduce the signs of ageing, especially the fine lines around the eyes and lines around the mouth, the drying effects of the sun and climate, as well as assisting with attenuating both accidental and surgical scars, healing burns, and stretch marks. Rosa mosqueta grows wild in the southern Andes (Chile) as well as other parts of the world. The amber seeds inside the hips contain an oil high in essential fatty acids, GLA, and vitamin C. The cold-pressed oil contains between 30% and 40% gamma linoleic acid (GLA) which has valuable uses in treating skin problems such as eczema and psoriasis. Can be used as a carrier oil with very small amounts of essential oils added, as a massage oil, or added to other vegetable/nut oils as part of a blend. This oil reduces scarring, heals burns, and softens scars and keloids. It can help diminish broken capillaries, but may also aggravate acne or blemished skin. The application of rosa mosqueta oil produced rapid healing of the inflammation, darkening and dermatitis caused by radiation. This is the best antiaging oil to us.

Safflower Oil…This oil oxidizes very easily but can be used in massage blends. It may be beneficial for painful inflamed joints, and applied to bruises, sprains, and painful arthritis. Safflower massage oil has great moisturizing qualities which make it a good choice to include when mixing a massage oil or preparing a carrier oil blend.

Sesame Oil This oil is rich in vitamins and minerals. Its vitamin E content gives the oil excellent stability. Some of its recommended uses are for psoriasis, eczema, arthritis, and as a skin softener. It's an oil which is gaining a lot of popularity as a tanning oil. . Sesame oil is used in creams and soaps for its moisturizing qualities. With high percentages of oleic and linoleic fatty acids, a sesame oil soap formula should incorporate coconut oil and palm oil for a quicker saponification and a harder bar.

Shea butter is also called African Karité butter. This refined butter is expressed from the pits of the fruit of the African butter tree. It is smooth, creamy and white. There are no impurities whatsoever. Shea is extremely moisturizing and gentle to the skin. In soaps, it gives a very luxurious feel to the finished product. It can also be added to creams and lotions or used alone for massage or skin cream.

Stearic Acid Occurs naturally in butter acids, tallow, and other animal fats and oils. A white waxy natural fatty acid, it is the major ingredient used in making bar soap and lubricants. It gives pearliness to hand creams. It is vegetable based, either from palm or coconut. It's white and granulated.

Sunflower oil has a light texture and is pleasant to use. It contains vitamins A, C, D, and E, a high linoleic acid content, and few saturated fatty acids. This oil is easily absorbed and can be used on all skin types. Its high vitamin E content makes it especially helpful for delicate and dry skin. It has a protective effect on the skin and is healing when applied to leg ulcers, bruises and skin diseases. It contains useful amounts of essential fatty acids and a high amount of vitamin E. Generally, absorption is not as good as other carrier oils, and it does tend to leave an oily feeling on the skin. The aroma is a faint and sweet, slightly nutty scent. Sunflower oil is expressed from the seed. Sunflower oil is good for all skin types for use in beauty and skin care, however, it should be diluted with another carrier oil such as sweet almond. It may be used as a substitute for olive oil in soaps, where it provides stable, conditioning lather to bar soaps. It is a very lightweight oil making it a perfect choice for bath oils, and lotions, but is not as suitable for massage due to the absorption rate.

Sweet Almond Obtained from the dried kernels of the almond tree, it is an excellent emollient (softening and soothing to the skin) and also helps the skin to balance its loss and absorption of moisture. Sweet almond oil is one of the most popular carrier oils, since it is non-greasy, spreads easily and also is great for nourishing the skin. The aroma is light, slightly sweet and nutty. This great vegetable oil is one of the most used carrier oils in aromatherapy massage, and this is understandable since it has a fine texture, is easily absorbed, and helps to leave the skin soft and satiny smooth yet it is non-greasy. It is further a great moisturizer suitable for all skin types, helps relieve irritation, inflammation and itching, and is greatly lubricating and because it is not an overly fast penetrating oil, it is a good massage medium to use to help spread the oil and essential oil mixture, while still allowing you time to do a good massage before it is absorbed by the skin. Not only does almond oil help protect the surface of the skin, but has great value to act as an emollient, skin soother and softener while conditioning the skin and promoting a clear young looking complexion, also helps to relieve muscular aches and pains. It has a rich concentration of oleic and linoleic essential fatty acids.

Vitamin E Today it is the world's second largest selling Vitamin and is commonly referred to as nature's own healing agent. Vitamin E has been cited as having positive effects on the wound healing process and possesses the ability to retard the conversion of soluble collagen to insoluble collagen (which is responsible for scar formation). In this manner, it helps reduce the chance of scar tissue forming. Vitamin E penetrates below the skin's surface to rejuvenate damaged skin cells and promote healthy regeneration of scarred skin. Vitamin E can help the skin overcome the harmful effects of the sun, responsible for over 80% of visible ageing including premature wrinkles and skin dryness. It helps reduce the number of damaged cells found after exposure of the skin to UV radiation. Vitamin E helps to preserve the health and integrity of the skin, heal cuts, abrasions and post-surgical scar tissue, provide a defense against bacterial infection, promote cellular oxygenation and protect and insulate skin from premature signs of aging. Vitamin E (T-50) With today's concerns over the safety of synthetic ingredients, why risk your product's success by using synthetic antioxidants?Because antioxidants can only prevent oxidation, not reverse it, it is important to add the antioxidant as early in the process as possible.

Watermelon Seed Oil -Watermelon seed oil, also known as ootanga oil or kalahari oil, is a light, penetrating, emollient oil. It is rich in omega 6 and 9 essential fatty acids. Watermelon oil absorbs into the skin readily and dissolves sebum buildup allowing the sebum to wash away. It also balances the moisture in the skin. It is used incosmetics and hair care products for its non-greasy feel and moisturizing properties. Watermelon seed oil restores elasticity to mature skin. It can be used as a natural baby oil and is a good option for a carrier oil in aromatherapy. Use it in massage oils, bath oils, salt scrubs, facials, face creams, bath bombs and hair oils.

Wheatgerm oil is very high in vitamin E and essential fatty acids. Because of its high vitamin E content, which is a natural antioxidant which helps to prevent rancidity, it is often added to other carrier oils to help lengthen their shelf life and to prevent them going off. Wheatgerm massage oil may be too heavy on its own, but it has great nourishing qualities which makes it a good choice to include when mixing a massage oil or preparing a carrier oil blend. This oil has a nutty aroma and is extracted by pressing or solvent extraction from the wheat "germ." Wheatgerm oil with its high vitamin E content and essential fatty acids is used extensively in aromatherapy massage blends since it is said to promote a smoother, younger looking skin, assisting in healing scar tissue as well as stretch marks. It is too sticky to use on its own, but is wonderful when blended with a lighter oil, such as almond oil. When Wheatgerm oil is applied topically on to the skin it is said to help promote the formation of new cells, improve circulation, and is said to help repair sun damage to the skin. It is also used to help relieve the symptoms of dermatitis. This oil is said to stimulate tissue regeneration and is often added to other oil blends because of its antioxidant properties. Wheat germ oil can be used to nourish dry or cracked skin and soothes skin problems such as eczema and psoriasis; also helps to prevent and reduce scarring and may prevent stretch marks. Mature skin, in particular, will benefit from wheat germ oil. It's also known to be beneficial for tired muscles, making a good base for after sport massage. People allergic to wheat flour may have reactions to wheat germ oil.

WAXES & EMULSIFIERS

Cetyl Alcohol, Vegetable: A fatty alcohol used as an opacifier, emulsion stabilizer, thickener, and emollient. Gives lotions and creams a richer feel.

Emulsifing wax (also known as Polowax) This wax is used for combining oil and water in recipes for lotions, creams, etc. This emulsifier is derived from plant-based alcohols and derivatives; it is a waxy solid containing a derivative of a fatty acid ester of Sorbitan which comes from sorbitol in berries. Emulsifing wax is a self-emulsifier. In other words, it contains an emulsifier(s), usually polysorbate 80 or 60 or 20 and a fatty alcohol or two. These ingredients will self-emulsify with water when heated and mixed. Of course it is desirable to add nice oils, butters, botanicals, etc. to make a nicer product, but it isn't really necessary---just nicer.

Stearic Acid Occurs naturally in butter acids, tallow, and other animal fats and oils. A white waxy natural fatty acid, it is the major ingredient used in making bar soap and lubricants. It gives pearliness to hand creams. It is vegetable based, either from palm or coconut. It's white and granulated.

Baking Soda:Baking Soda, a sodium bicarbonate, is a naturally occurring substance that is present in all living things--it helps living things maintain the pH balance necessary for life. Baking soda is made from soda ash, also known as sodium carbonate.

Polysorbate 20 is a nonionic surfactant and emulsifier derived from sorbitol which comes from fruit and berries. Polysorbate 20 is a water-soluble yellowish liquid used as a dispersing agent -mixes oil and water, fragrance solubilizer and stabilizer, lubricates and has a soothing effect on the skin

Polysorbate 80 is a nonionic surfactant and emulsifier derived from sorbitol which comes from fruit and berries. Polysorbate 80 is a highly viscose water-soluble yellowish liquid used as a dispersing agent -mixes oil and water, stabilizer and lubricates.

CLAYS
Bentonite clay (a combination of montmorillonite and volcanic ash) is a highly absorbent clay best suited for oily skin. It is a fine powder, odorless and tasteless, insoluble in water, swelling to about eight times its weight when water is added. Uses: Suspending and colloidal agent in the manufacture of soap, also used in cosmetics and directly on the body as a mask. Bentonite powder is added to soap at trace to help oily skin, or in a shaving soap (1T per #of soap). In masks it's not normally used as the predominant clay due to it's ability to absorb large quantities of water (thus making the mask product take a very long time to dry). It is, however, used in smaller quantities to make mask products more elastic. Also used to suspend pigments, thicken lotions and absorb oil.

Kaolin Clay:China clay (white clay) is the mildest of all clays and is used in cosmetic masks and soaps for sensitive skin as well as dry skin. Does not expand with increasing water content. This is a fine, fluffy clay that has natural absorbency properties and is frequently found in powders, body packs, skin care products, and deodorants

Red Clay:It is very rich in iron and has been widely applied as a strong drawing clay used in medicinal preparations. Because of its drying capabilities it is effective in treating poison oak/ivy, and for application to rashes. Those with very oily skin and acne will benefit most from this helpful clay.

MISC

Wheat protein that contains wheat oligosaccharides (carbohydrates) and constitutes a unique hydrating complex offering a combination of moisture-balancing and film-forming properties that work synergistically to give hair better body control, and skin, a smoother softer feel. Wonderfully moisturizing in lotions/creams, anti-aging products. Exceptional in shampoos, conditioners, body wash.