Carrier oils are a key part of aromatherapy, which is a complementary therapy that involves using essential oils to aid physical and emotional health. Carrier oils dilute concentrated essential oils so that people can apply them to the skin without experiencing side effects. Essentially, they help "carry" essential oils to your skin.

Keep reading to learn more about one of our favourite carrier oils...

What is fractionated coconut oil?

Fractionated Coconut Oil (FCO) is made by taking regular coconut oil and processing it in such a way that it becomes odourless, colourless and remains in a liquid state. All of these characteristics are what make FCO one of the most popular carrier oils to use with essential oils and incorporate into self-care and beauty routines.

It is easily absorbed by the skin and will not feel overly greasy. FCO is also known to have a long shelf life in comparison to alternative carrier oils. We recommend storing it at room temperature and away from sunlight. 

3+ Ways to Use Fractionated Coconut Oil

Pure essential oils are very potent and can easily evaporate. To maximize the effectiveness of your essential oils, many people turn to fractionated coconut oil which is known to be one of the most popular carrier oils for blending because it helps dilute and drive essential oils deeper into the skin for optimal absorption. If you have sensitive skin or are using essential oils with a child, a carrier oil should be always be used for safety and precaution.

Relaxing Roller Bottle Recipe

 In a 10ml roller bottle, combine 30 drops of pure Lavender essential oil and fill the remainder with fractionated coconut oil. Give it a shake and apply to your temples, wrists, neck, and the bottoms of your feet before bed or when you are feeling stressed to promote relaxation. You can also apply your roller bottle while you practise yoga, journal or meditate.

Massage Oil Recipe

Add 5 drops of Cypress and Grapefruit essential oil to a 10ml roller bottle and top with fractionated coconut oil. Massage into sore muscles for a soothing experience.

Exfoliating Body Scrub

Bring your tired, dull skin back to life after a summer in the sun or long winter season. Treat yourself to a pampering session and remove dry, dead skin sitting on the surface of your body by exfoliating. Exfoliating helps to promote cell renewal and prevent clogged pores and ingrown hairs. Recipe below!

Recipe:

Combine 1 cup of sugar or salt with ¼ cup FCO and 5 drops of each Lavender and Grapefruit essential oil in a glass jar. We used one part sugar with one part Epsom salt! 

Lavender and Grapefruit essential oil are great for skin health. Lavender oil is soothing and healing for dry sensitive skin, while Grapefruit oil is known to brighten dull skin.

Choose from salt or sugar. Salt is coarser on the skin, whereas sugar is finer and less abrasive. If you have sensitive skin or plan on exfoliating sensitive areas, consider using sugar. There are a variety of different types of sugar that will work, including raw, refined, coconut or brown sugar. If you decide to use salt, we recommend Epsom salt or Himalayan pink salt.

Fractionated Coconut Oil will help to restore moisture and leave your skin feeling soft and healthy. You may also try Jojoba Oil if you wish.

Instructions:

Cleanse and rinse your body before applying your scrub in a circular motion. Avoid exfoliating irritated areas. We recommend doing this about once every few weeks (depending on your skin) followed with a moisturizer.

Hair Mask

Coarse frizzy hair? Itchy dry scalp? Try applying fractionated coconut oil from root to tip for an ultra-conditioning hair mask for about half an hour before jumping in the shower. This gives your hair ample time to absorb the FCO so it can work its magic—especially if you have long or thick hair! Feel free to add a few drops of Peppermint essential oil for a cooling sensation on your scalp. Follow through with your regular shower routine and wash out the coconut oil (you may find that you have to shampoo a few times).

Other Uses For FCO

• Minimize Stretch Marks & Wrinkles - FCO promotes hydration, healing and healthy skin
• Natural Deodorant - FCO has antibacterial properties that help prevent odour causing bacteria

Where can I buy fractionated coconut oil?

You can find Fractionated Coconut Oil along with a ton of other raw materials in our store!

💚 Share how you use your fractionated coconut oil in the comments.

DISCLAIMER: Make sure you are using essential oils that are Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade. All information mentioned in this blog post has not been evaluated by Health Canada or the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.