Avocado Oil

Exceptionally Nutrient-Dense

Avocado oil is one of the most nutrient-rich carrier oils available, containing vitamins A, D, and E, potassium, lecithin, and a high concentration of oleic acid (approximately 60-70%). A study published in the Journal of the American Oil Chemists' Society documented that avocado oil also contains significant levels of chlorophyll and carotenoids (lutein), which contribute to its distinctive green colour and provide additional antioxidant protection for the skin.

This remarkable nutrient density means avocado oil does not merely serve as a passive vehicle for essential oils — it actively contributes its own therapeutic benefits to any blend. This makes it a valuable (if slightly more expensive) choice for skin care formulations.

Deep Skin Penetration

Research published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science found that avocado oil has a superior ability to penetrate the epidermis compared to many other carrier oils. This deep penetration capacity means it can deliver both its own nutrients and accompanying essential oil compounds into the deeper layers of the skin, making it particularly effective for treating chronic dryness and mature skin.

Collagen & Wound Healing

Animal studies published in the journal Connective Tissue Research found that avocado oil may help stimulate collagen synthesis and support wound healing. The combination of vitamins A and E, sterolin compounds, and essential fatty acids may help support the skin's natural repair processes. Traditional use in South American folk medicine has long employed avocado oil for wound care and skin regeneration.

Anti-Inflammatory & Eczema Support

Avocado oil contains polyhydroxylated fatty alcohols (PFAs), which are unique anti-inflammatory compounds. Research in the journal Dermatology found that avocado oil-enriched preparations helped improve symptoms of psoriasis when used alongside conventional treatments. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it a supportive carrier oil for essential oil blends designed to soothe eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis.

UV Damage Protection

Whilst avocado oil is not a sunscreen and should never be relied upon for sun protection, research suggests that its antioxidant content (particularly lutein and vitamin E) may help protect the skin from some UV-induced damage at the cellular level. It may also help soothe and repair skin after sun exposure. Use it in after-sun essential oil blends, not as a replacement for proper sun protection.

Carrier Oil for Dry & Mature Skin Blends

Absorption rate: slow to medium. Avocado oil is a heavier carrier oil best suited for dry, mature, or very dehydrated skin. For a luxurious anti-ageing facial oil, combine 20 ml of avocado oil with 10 ml of rosehip oil, then add 3 drops of frankincense, 2 drops of rose, and 2 drops of geranium essential oil. Apply 3-4 drops to clean skin in the evening.

Intensive Night Treatment

Avocado oil's rich texture makes it ideal for overnight skin treatments. Apply a few drops to the face and neck before bed, layered over your usual serum. Its slow absorption means it works throughout the night to nourish and repair. For an added boost, pre-blend with 2 drops of neroli and 2 drops of lavender essential oil per 30 ml.

Dry Skin Body Massage

For deeply moisturising body massage, blend avocado oil 50:50 with sweet almond oil to create a medium-weight oil with excellent nourishing properties. Add essential oils at a 2-3% dilution. This combination provides the rich nutrition of avocado oil with the superior slip of almond oil. It is particularly beneficial for massage during winter months when skin tends to be driest.

Stretch Mark & Scar Treatment

Avocado oil's high vitamin E content and deep penetration make it an excellent choice for stretch mark and scar-reduction blends. Combine 20 ml of avocado oil with 10 ml of rosehip oil and add 5 drops of neroli and 3 drops of lavender essential oil. Massage into affected areas twice daily. Consistent use over several months is needed for visible improvement.

Heel & Elbow Rescue Balm

For extremely dry, rough patches on heels, elbows, and knees, avocado oil provides intensive relief. Combine equal parts avocado oil and shea butter (melted), add 5 drops of lavender and 3 drops of myrrh essential oil per 50 ml, and allow to set in a small jar. Apply to rough areas before bed and cover with cotton socks or gloves for overnight treatment.

Hair Mask for Damaged Hair

Avocado oil's ability to penetrate the hair shaft makes it excellent for repairing dry, damaged, or chemically treated hair. Warm 2-3 tablespoons and add 5 drops of ylang-ylang and 3 drops of rosemary essential oil. Apply from mid-lengths to ends, wrap in a warm towel, and leave for 30-60 minutes before shampooing out. Use weekly for noticeably softer, stronger hair.

Comedogenic Rating & Facial Use

Comedogenic rating: 3 (out of 5) — moderate. Avocado oil has a moderate comedogenic rating, meaning it may clog pores in people with oily or acne-prone skin. For facial use, it is best suited for normal to dry skin types. If you have oily or combination skin and wish to use avocado oil on the face, blend it at no more than 20-30% with a lighter carrier oil such as jojoba or grapeseed.

Latex-Fruit Syndrome

People with latex allergy should exercise caution. Avocado is one of the fruits associated with latex-fruit syndrome, a condition where people with latex allergies cross-react to certain fruits including avocado, banana, kiwi, and chestnut. If you have a known latex allergy, consult your allergist before using avocado oil topically. Perform a patch test and wait 48 hours to check for any delayed reaction.

Shelf Life & Storage

Shelf life: approximately 1-2 years (unrefined) or 2 years (refined). Unrefined avocado oil should be stored in a tightly sealed dark glass bottle in the refrigerator, as it is moderately susceptible to oxidation. Refined avocado oil is more shelf-stable. The oil should have a rich green colour (unrefined) or pale yellow (refined) — discard if it develops a brown colour or rancid smell.

Colour & Staining

Unrefined avocado oil has a distinctive deep green colour due to its high chlorophyll content. This colour can stain light-coloured clothing, towels, and bed linens. When using for body massage or overnight treatments, use dark-coloured towels and bedding. Refined avocado oil has a paler colour and is less likely to stain, making it more practical for everyday use.