Carrier Oils For Aromatherapy

Fixed Oils and Skin Penetration - Temperature and Viscosity

There are other influencing factors, for example viscosity of the penetrant; viscosity is the 'stickiness' or otherwise affecting the flow of a substance - water has a low viscosity and treacle has a high viscosity . Viscosity plays a part with some carrier oils, some being relatively viscose ( almond, olive) and which are absorbed very slowly; it is known that high viscosity fats such as lard and wool fat retard or prevent percutaneous absorption (Macht 1983).

Other oils which are less viscous (grapeseed,linseed) are relatively quickly absorbed  as tests involving the abdominal skin of the rat have shown. However, avocado oil has the reputation of being easily absorbed into the skin and of aiding the penetration os substances dissolved in it, despite its relatively high viscosity.Temperature is also a consideration as any oil becomes less viscous with a rise in temperature: therefore it can be expected that warming the oil and the hands, and applying to a warm body would aid penetration.