Mixing and Storing Rose Hip Oil Blend
Question
I have Rose Hip Oil and want to mix it with `grape seed oil` and `sweet almond oil` for skin application.
1. Can I mix them together directly for skin application?
2. Will the mixture have the same shelf life as the individual oils before mixing?
3. What type of Vitamin E should be used for preserving the oil blend (as an antioxidant)?
4. Can I add essential oils like Geranium or Lavender for fragrance, and if so, at what percentage?
Answer
Storing and Using Rose Hip Oil
Regarding your questions about storing rose hip oil, mixing it with other oils, the type of Vitamin E used for preservation, and adding essential oils for fragrance:
1. Storing Rose Hip Oil for Longevity
The Rose Hip Oil from our company already contains Vitamin E and Rosemary Extract, which help maintain its freshness. To store it for an extended period (3-6 months) at room temperature without deterioration or rancidity, it is crucial to:
- Avoid all types of light: Store the oil in an opaque container.
- Avoid heat: Keep the oil below 25°C.
Following these storage guidelines should allow the oil to last for 6 months or until the expiration date on the label.
If you wish to add additional antioxidants for extra protection, you can consider adding Vitamin E (Tocopheryl Acetate) or Rosemary Oleoresin Extract (ROE). The recommended usage rate for Vitamin E as an antioxidant for oils is around 0.01%, while ROE is typically used at 0.02% - 0.1%. Using both together provides enhanced effectiveness.
2. Mixing with Grape Seed Oil and Sweet Almond Oil
Yes, you can mix Rose Hip Oil with Grape Seed Oil and Sweet Almond Oil for skin application. It is common practice to blend different oils to combine their beneficial properties.
Regarding shelf life after mixing, if you mix fresh oils that are not yet rancid and include antioxidants like Vitamin E or Rosemary Oleoresin Extract in the blend, the mixing process itself does not necessarily shorten the shelf life. The antioxidants help to protect the mixture from oxidation, similar to how they protect individual oils.
3. Vitamin E for Preservation
The types of Vitamin E commonly used to preserve oils and act as antioxidants are Vitamin E (Tocopheryl Acetate) and Vitamin E (dl-alpha tocopherol).
- Vitamin E (Tocopheryl Acetate): This is a stable form with a long shelf life but slightly lower antioxidant efficiency compared to dl-alpha tocopherol. It is generally more affordable and easier to incorporate into formulas.
- Vitamin E (dl-alpha tocopherol): This type has higher antioxidant activity but a shorter shelf life (typically around one year) and is generally more expensive and viscous.
Both types are available. The choice depends on the desired balance between stability, effectiveness, and cost. Rosemary Oleoresin Extract is also highly effective, especially when used in combination with Vitamin E.
4. Adding Essential Oils for Fragrance
Yes, you can add essential oils like Geranium or Lavender oil to improve the scent of the oil blend. However, essential oils are highly concentrated and should be used at a very low percentage.
It is recommended to start by adding essential oils at a concentration not exceeding 1% of the total oil mixture. You can begin with a lower percentage (e.g., 0.1-0.5%) and adjust according to your preference, ensuring the total does not exceed 1% to avoid potential skin sensitivity.
Related Products Mentioned
Vitamin E (Tocopheryl Acetate)
Vitamin E (dl-alpha tocopherol)
Rosemary Oleoresin Extract (ROE)
Rose Hip Oil (Virgin, Fresh)