Carrier oils are oils used to dilute essential oils before they are applied to the skin in massage and aromatherapy. They are also known as base oils or vegetable oils and are so named because they carry the essential oil onto the skin at a safe concentration. Carrier oils are used because essential oils are potent and can cause irritation when applied directly to the skin. Carrier oils are usually vegetable oils, such as coconut oil, avocado oil, or sunflower oil, derived from the seeds, kernels, or nuts of a plant. They are fairly tolerant to oxygen and do not evaporate in the same way that essential oils do. Carrier oils can be blended to combine their properties of viscosity, acceptability, lubrication, absorption, aroma, and more. They can also be infused with plant material to produce infused oils. Carrier oils are beneficial on their own, providing the skin with essential nutrients and antioxidants. Different carrier oils have different properties and uses, so it is important to choose the right one based on factors such as odor, absorption, and skin type. It is recommended to buy therapeutic-grade carrier oils that are cold-pressed, 100 percent pure, and additive- or preservative-free.