If you shop for skincare or haircare oils, it’s easy to get confused. People often use the word “oil” to describe completely different things. One customer might mean a soothing facial oil, while another means a strong essential oil used for aromatherapy. They are not the same, and using them the same way can lead to irritation.
This guide explains the difference between essential oils and carrier oils (also called fixed oils), how each is made, how they are typically used, and why it matters for daily skin and hair routines. We’ll also clear up a common question: is there such a thing as “rosehip essential oil,” and how is it different from rosehip oil?
What are essential oils?
Essential oils are highly concentrated aromatic compounds extracted from plants. They contain the “scent molecules” of the plant, which is why they smell so strong.
How essential oils are made
Essential oils are usually produced by:
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Steam distillation (common for lavender, peppermint, rosemary)
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Cold expression (common for citrus peels like orange and lemon)
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Solvent extraction for some materials (often called absolutes, like rose absolute)
Because essential oils are concentrated, they are commonly measured in drops, not pumps.
What essential oils are used for
Essential oils are most commonly used for:
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Aromatherapy and fragrance
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Adding scent to products
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Targeted uses in skincare when diluted properly
Some people enjoy essential oils in their routine, but it’s important to understand they are not “moisturizing oils.” They do not work the same way as nourishing face oils.
Can essential oils go directly on skin?
Usually, no. Essential oils are so concentrated that applying them undiluted can cause:
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Irritation or stinging
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Redness
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Dryness
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Sensitization over time (skin becoming more reactive)
That is why most essential oils are meant to be diluted before skin use.
What are carrier oils (fixed oils)?
Carrier oils are the oils most people think of when they hear “face oil” or “hair oil.” They are pressed from the fatty parts of plants, like seeds, kernels, or fruits.
How carrier oils are made
Carrier oils are commonly produced by:
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Cold pressing (often considered premium because minimal heat is used)
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Sometimes light filtering or refining depending on the oil
Examples of carrier oils include:
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Rosehip oil
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Argan oil
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Jojoba oil
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Castor oil
Carrier oils contain fatty acids and lipids that support the skin barrier. These are the oils typically used in droppers and pumps for daily application.
What carrier oils are used for
Carrier oils are commonly used for:
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Skin barrier support and softness
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Helping reduce the look of dryness
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Hair conditioning and shine
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Scalp massage routines
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Blending with essential oils to dilute them safely
In other words, carrier oils are the foundation oils for skin and hair.
Essential oils vs carrier oils: the simplest way to remember
A helpful shortcut is this:
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Essential oils are concentrated aromatic extracts.
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Carrier oils are nourishing oils you can apply directly.
Essential oils bring scent and potency. Carrier oils bring nourishment, softness, and barrier support.
Is there “rosehip essential oil”?
This is one of the most common search questions, and the answer is usually: not really in the way people mean it.
What rosehip oil actually is
Rosehip oil is a carrier oil. It is typically pressed from rosehip seeds (the fruit of the rose plant). It is used for:
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Radiance and glow
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Softness and comfort
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The look of smoother, healthier skin over time
It is not an essential oil. It does not come from steam distillation and it is not a fragrance concentrate.
What people often confuse it with
When people say “rosehip essential oil,” they often mean one of these:
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Rose essential oil (Rose otto): distilled from rose petals, very concentrated, fragrance-focused
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Rose absolute: extracted from rose petals, also concentrated and fragrance-focused
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Rose CO2 extract: less common, but still not the same as rosehip seed oil
These are different materials from different parts of the plant, produced differently, and used differently.
Which is better for skincare and haircare
It depends on your goal.
If your goal is daily skin nourishment
Carrier oils are usually the better choice because they:
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Support the skin barrier
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Help reduce the look of dryness
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Feel comfortable for daily use
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Can be used in a simple minimalist routine
If your goal is fragrance or aromatherapy
Essential oils can be used, but it’s best when:
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They are properly diluted
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You know your skin tolerates them
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You do not overuse them
If you have sensitive skin, fragrance sensitivity, or are prone to irritation, many people prefer routines without essential oils.
Where Canadian Grace fits
Canadian Grace is built around Oil-Only Beauty, meaning the focus is on pure carrier oils intended for direct skin and hair use. Our oils are designed to nourish, support comfort, and keep routines simple, without relying on fragrance concentrates.
If you’re choosing between essential oils and face oils for daily skincare, the best starting point is usually a high-quality carrier oil like rosehip, argan, or jojoba, applied to slightly damp skin.
Quick FAQ
Can I apply essential oils directly to skin?
It’s usually not recommended. Most essential oils should be diluted.
Are essential oils the same as face oils?
No. Face oils are typically carrier oils. Essential oils are concentrated aromatic extracts.
Is rosehip oil the same as rose essential oil?
No. Rosehip oil is a pressed seed oil. Rose essential oil is distilled from petals and is very concentrated.
