How to Make Oil Serums
For Body, Face & Hair
An oil serum is a blend of carrier oils, active oils, and sometimes essential oils designed to nourish and treat skin or hair. Unlike solid balms, oil serums are 100% liquid and absorb directly into the skin without any wax barrier. Oil serums can target specific concerns like aging, dryness, acne, or dull hair, making them highly customizable for individual needs.
Types of Oil Serums
Face Serums
- Light, fast-absorbing oils
- Active ingredients
- Low comedogenic rating
- Small batches (15-30ml)
Body Oils
- Richer, moisturizing oils
- Focus on hydration
- Can include shimmer
- Larger batches (100-250ml)
Hair Oils
- Penetrating oils for scalp
- Silicones for shine (opt)
- EOs for scalp health
- Light oils for fine hair
Typical Formulation Ratios
- Base/Carrier Oils: 85-98% (the foundation)
- Active/Specialty Oils: 1-10% (targeted benefits)
- Essential Oils: 0.5-2% (scent & therapeutic)
- Antioxidants: 0.5-1% (vitamin E, rosemary extract)
Carrier Oils by Skin Type
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Jojoba Oil, Squalane, Hemp Seed Oil, Grapeseed Oil, Rosehip Seed Oil
Dry/Mature Skin
Argan Oil, Marula Oil, Rosehip Seed Oil, Avocado Oil, Camellia Oil
Sensitive Skin
Squalane, Meadowfoam Seed Oil, Oat Oil, Camellia Oil, Sunflower Oil
Hair (All Types)
Argan Oil, Jojoba Oil, Camellia Oil, Broccoli Seed Oil, Abyssinian Oil
Basic Process
- 1. Choose Your Purpose: Determine if this is for face, body, or hair, and what concerns you want to address.
- 2. Select Carrier Oils: Choose 1-3 carrier oils appropriate for your skin/hair type (85-95% of formula).
- 3. Add Active Oils: Include specialty oils for targeted benefits (1-10%).
- 4. Add Antioxidants: Include vitamin E or rosemary extract to extend shelf life.
- 5. Add Essential Oils (Optional): Add fragrance or therapeutic essential oils at safe dilution rates.
- 6. Blend & Bottle: Combine all ingredients, mix well, and transfer to a dark glass bottle with dropper.
Pro Tips
- Use dark glass bottles to protect oils from light degradation
- Store in a cool, dark place - refrigeration extends shelf life
- Patch test new formulations for 24-48 hours before full use
- Label with ingredients and date made for tracking
Frequently Asked Questions
Tip: Use the Help Me Pick Ingredients Wizard
Not sure which waxes, butters, and oils to use? The Help Me Pick Ingredients wizard in the Balm Calculator recommends ingredients and percentages tailored to your product type and texture preference. It includes natural and vegan filters.