The RitualSkin Notes

A Guide to Carrier Oils — Which One Is Actually Right for Your Skin

Jojoba, argan, avocado, castor — they are not interchangeable. Here is what each one does and who it is for.

By Rae'Lynn S. · May 2026


When we ask you to choose a carrier oil in the builder, we are not asking you to pick a favorite word. Carrier oils fundamentally change how your butter feels, how fast it absorbs, and what it does for your skin over time. Here is what you need to know.

Jojoba — for combination and oily skin

Technically a liquid wax, not an oil. Jojoba mimics the skin's own sebum more closely than any other carrier, which is why it absorbs without residue and does not clog pores. If you have combination skin, oily skin, or if past body butters have felt too heavy — start here.

Sweet Almond — for most skin types

The crowd-pleaser. Sweet almond is lightweight, rich in vitamin E and fatty acids, and absorbs at a medium pace — not instantly, not sluggishly. It leaves a gentle sheen without greasiness. If you are not sure what your skin needs, sweet almond is rarely wrong.

Argan — for mature or dull skin

Cold-pressed from Moroccan argan nuts, this is the luxury carrier for a reason. High in antioxidants and vitamin E, argan supports skin elasticity and gives noticeable radiance over time. It absorbs fully and leaves skin feeling nourished rather than coated.

Avocado — for very dry or mature skin

Dense and deeply nourishing. Avocado oil is rich in oleic acid and vitamins A, D, and E. It is the choice for skin that needs serious moisture repair, not just hydration. Best applied at night or in cold weather when your skin is working hardest.

Castor — for targeted healing

Thick, sticky, and powerful. Castor oil is not an everyday carrier — it is a targeted treatment. Use it when working on scars, stretch marks, rough heels, or areas of chronic dryness. In small amounts blended with shea, it creates a formula that heals over time.

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