So, Here Are The Carrier Oils That Will Take Your Sex Life To A Whole 'Nother Level
I already know. Some of y’all read the title of this piece and already decided that you’re gonna just go ahead and skip it. Yet, hear me out — if you’ve made it even this far, I’m gonna ask that you don’t. While on the surface, carrier oils may seem like a bit of a ho-hum topic, I’m confident that by the end of this, you’ll see them in a completely different light.
Why? Because although the basic definition of carrier oils is they are oils that are derived from plants that are used to dilute essential oils so that your skin is better able to absorb them (yawn), this actually means that they can do a helluva lot for you — including in the bedroom department.
Behold, the sexual benefits of 12 different carrier oils. Ready?
1. Coconut Oil
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Coconut oil is made up of mostly fatty acids. This is great to know because they help to hydrate your skin, serve as a skin barrier (to protect it from environmental elements) and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
What makes it bomb when it comes to sexual activity is it can serve as a great all-natural lubricant (so long as you don’t use latex condoms; oil can break down their effectiveness); especially if you’re experiencing vaginal dryness or you tend to experience more friction during intercourse and you’re looking for an oil that can provide some much-needed relief.
2. Carrot Seed Oil
If you like earthy and woodsy scents, you might like carrot seed oil. A cool thing about this oil is it contains antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties which makes it awesome at fighting and even helping to prevent fungal and bacterial growth. It’s also a great skin exfoliant if you’re looking for a gentle way to remove dead skin cells and even out your skin tone.
Since carrot seed oil is also rich in antioxidants, beta-carotene, and vitamin E, men can benefit from this oil because it helps to prevent sperm damage and even increase a man’s sperm count over time. Since it can also help to reduce stress, applying it and/or diffusing it can actually increase your chances of having an orgasm — or more intense ones.
3. Neem Oil
Another name for neem oil is margosa oil. Interestingly enough, it’s most popular for being a natural kind of pesticide although the fatty acids, vitamin E, and calcium in it make it good for the skin too. In fact, if you’re looking for an oil that will naturally help to boost collagen production in your skin, look no further.
So, what makes neem oil great when it comes to what we’re talking about today? Some science-based reports from homeopaths say that it’s quite effective when acting as an all-natural spermicidal agent. Yep — you can put some of it into your va-jay-jay and it will help to prevent pregnancy.
Now, you should probably do some additional digging on your own when it comes to this one and definitely discuss it with your physician. But the ever-evolving data is pretty solid if you’re someone who’s not yet ready for a baby, but you don’t want to put any birth control that’s full of hormones into your system either.
4. Sweet Almond Oil
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Hands down, two of my favorite oils for my face are rosemary oil and sweet almond oil. I’m so into both of them that it’s rare that I won’t turn in without washing my face with some sulfur soap (it’s great for acne and keeping my complexion even) and then applying a thin layer of one of these oils afterward.
As far as sweet almond oil goes, specifically, the fatty acids in it help your skin to retain moisture, the vitamin E helps to protect your skin from UV damage and the vitamin A is awesome at fighting acne.
Sweet almond oil can benefit your sex life because it’s also a solid lubricant for unprotected sex and it contains properties that can help to fight a yeast infection if you’re someone who is prone to them due to condoms or experiencing a new partner.
5. Jojoba Oil
There are fatty acids galore in jojoba oil. If you add to that the fact that it’s a good source of vitamins B-complex and E along with anti-inflammatory properties, you definitely need this in your arsenal if you want to get or keep clear skin or you’re looking for an all-natural way to soothe the symptoms that are associated with eczema or psoriasis.
Sexually, if you want to use something with no chemicals in it that will make anal action easier, this oil tops the list. The slip is pretty amazing and it’s fairly long-lasting. Just remember that again, as with all oils, latex condoms aren’t a reliable complement. On the other hand, polyurethane and nitrile condoms typically are.
6. Vitamin E Oil
If there was any oil on this list that you probably knew was a lifesaver when it comes to skincare, this was probably the one. It helps your skin to retain moisture. It protects your skin from cellular damage. It speeds up the healing of scars. It reduces skin itchiness. It makes eczema and psoriasis easier to deal with. The list goes on and on.
And why is it so bomb as far as sex is concerned? For men, it helps to increase blood flow to their penis so that their erections are stronger (although it must be consumed in moderation; some studies say that super high doses over a long period of time can increase a man’s risk of being diagnosed with prostate cancer). For men and women, it’s also a powerful antioxidant that helps to boost the libido.
7. Hemp Seed Oil
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When you press hemp seeds, (seeds that come from the cannabis plant) what you’re going to get is hemp seed oil. An important thing that it contains is Gamma-linoleic acid (GLA); it’s great at reducing inflammation. That component is so effective that it’s not uncommon for professional skincare experts to recommend this particular oil for acne, psoriasis, eczema, and atopic dermatitis.
And honestly, if you don’t invest in any other carrier oil for sexual purposes, you can’t go wrong with making this your choice. It reduces stress. It puts you in a better mood. It can even help to enhance the pleasure of physical touch. By the way, when it comes to increasing vaginal sensations, a hemp oil worth checking out is Awaken Arousal Oil with CBD. It ain’t cheap yet word on the street is that it’s pretty damn effective.
8. Rosehip Seed Oil
Rosehips literally come from the fruit of the rosebush. They are filled with vitamins A, C, and F as well as antioxidants and fatty acids. One of the reasons why we as Black women should take special note of it is it contains properties that help to get rid of hyperpigmentation. It can also help to firm up the skin which makes it an ideal oil for sagging skin after childbirth and/or breastfeeding.
You know what this means, right? Rosehip seed oil can also help to tighten up your vulvar skin if you sense that it is aging too. Plus, the lycopene and beta-carotene that it contains will lighten up your vulvar skin (if you wish) and its potent anti-inflammatory properties can help to soothe your vagina if you and yours really got it in one night.
9. Grapeseed Oil
Grapeseed oil is literally what it sounds like. It’s an oil that is derived from pressed grapes and is high in vitamin E and antioxidants. I personally use it for my hair because it’s a light oil that seals my ends and soothes my scalp. However, it’s also great when it comes to increasing skin elasticity, protecting skin from sun damage and even helping to heal acne and acne marks (in part because it works to even out your skin tone).
Because it is so good for the skin, use it as a base for a sexy DIY massage oil (it’s totally tasteless if you want to use it as an ingredient for an edible oil, by the way). Although, it should go on record that because it dries rather quickly, you might not want to rely on it as a vaginal lubricant…unless you want to keep applying it.
10. Wheat Germ Oil
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Another kind of oil that’s packed with vitamin E is wheat germ oil. Not only does it encourage skin cell formation, but it also softens the appearance of scars and stretch marks and deeply hydrates your skin as it promotes greater flexibility which can help to keep you looking younger longer.
The vitamins B6 and E along with zinc and magnesium all play a role in helping to lessen the symptoms that are associated with PMS (premenstrual syndrome) as well as balancing out sex-based hormones. Since period sex is something that can actually help to bring relief to PMS and period-related symptoms, adding wheat germ oil to your diet could prove to be beneficial in a myriad of ways.
11. Evening Primrose Oil
I’m a huge fan of evening primrose oil for a ton of reasons. One is because it’s great at keeping my skin clear and preventing those damn period pimples that I can’t seem to avoid. It’s able to do this because the properties in the oil help to improve your skin’s elasticity and texture while also making it feel more supple. This particular oil also has anti-inflammatory benefits which are what make it an all-natural way to treat acne.
As far as your sex life goes, evening primrose oil not only helps to balance out your progesterone and estrogen levels (the more balanced they are, the easier it is for you to enjoy sex), but it helps to increase your dopamine (which helps you to feel good) while also expanding your blood vessels; the more blood that flows, the easier it is to orgasm.
12. Pomegranate Seed Oil
Whenever Rosh Hashanah (the new year that I personally observe) rolls around, something that I make sure to do is cop a few pomegranates (because that’s when they’re in season, plus, they are a symbolic fruit for that time of the year). Not only do they symbolize things like righteousness, fertility, beauty, power, and eternal life, but they also are loaded with antioxidants, antimicrobial properties, and other nutrients.
Skin-wise, pomegranate seed oil offers big boosts of collagen and elasticity while also unclogging pores and reversing the signs of skin damage.
Sex-wise, it rounds out the list of must-have carrier oils because it helps to give men a testosterone boost and longer erections as it helps both men and women to get — and stay — in better moods. As a serious bonus, there are several studies linked to its ability to bring relief to PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome).
See…I told y’all that carrier oils were their own lil’ aphrodisiacs. So, the next time you’re at the grocery store or a health food store (even better), treat yourself, your partner, and your sex life to a few bottles — and watch your sex life improve and intensify in ways you never imagined!
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Featured image by Rob Lewine/Getty Images
Different puzzle pieces are creating bigger pictures these days. 2024 will mark a milestone on a few different levels, including the release of my third book next June (yay!).
I am also a Professional Certified Coach. My main mission for attaining that particular goal is to use my formal credentials to help people navigate through the sometimes tumultuous waters, both on and offline, when it comes to information about marriage, sex and relationships that is oftentimes misinformation (because "coach" is a word that gets thrown around a lot, oftentimes quite poorly).
I am also still super devoted to helping to bring life into this world as a doula, marriage life coaching will always be my first love (next to writing, of course), a platform that advocates for good Black men is currently in the works and my keystrokes continue to be devoted to HEALTHY over HAPPY in the areas of holistic intimacy, spiritual evolution, purpose manifestation and self-love...because maturity teaches that it's impossible to be happy all of the time when it comes to reaching goals yet healthy is a choice that can be made on a daily basis (amen?).
If you have any PERSONAL QUESTIONS (please do not contact me with any story pitches; that is an *editorial* need), feel free to reach out at missnosipho@gmail.com. A sistah will certainly do what she can. ;)
This article is sponsored by Hulu.
UnPrisonedhas returned for its highly anticipated second season, delving deeper into the complex dynamics of the Alexander family.
The series premiere comes a year after its debut season garnered rave reviews from fans and critics and earned record-breaking ratings for Hulu's Onyx Collective brand. UnPrisoned's success can be attributed to its raw, relatable themes and comedic appeal.
Inspired by creator Tracy McMillan's life, the show follows Paige (Kerry Washington), a therapist and single mother whose life takes an unexpected turn when her father, Edwin (Delroy Lindo) --who was released from prison-- moves in with her and her teenage son, Finn (Faly Rakotohavana).
Throughout UnPrisoned's first season, viewers witnessed how Edwin's incarceration deeply affected Paige's life and relationships. In the series, Paige unpacks her trauma through interactions with her inner child and her online followers. Meanwhile, Edwin is overcoming specific struggles with his own past that led to his life of crime, including a dysfunctional upbringing and his mother's arrest. As the Alexanders attempt to reconcile, new challenges arise.
This new season promises to further explore their unconventional family dynamic. Here are several compelling reasons why season two of UnPrisoned should be on everyone's watchlist.
The Alexander Family Life Is Still In Shambles
UnPrisoned's second season resumes where the series left off, with Paige grappling with the fallout from her troubled therapy practice and Edwin navigating life independently after moving out. Meanwhile, Finn faces his own challenges. The teenager is battling anxiety and seeking information about his father—a topic Paige avoids discussing.
The Alexander Family Are Attending Therapy To Resolve Their Underlying Issues
Amid the chaos in their lives, the Alexander family decides to mend their bond by confronting their past traumas. They seek professional help and attend therapy sessions with a “family radical healing coach,” played by John Stamos, a new cast member. This collective effort aims to unravel the complexities of their shared history and strengthen their relationships.
The process of unraveling each character's internal conflicts and their potential impact on future relationships may clash with Paige's textbook therapy approach. While Paige is used to being in the therapist's seat in both career and family, this forces her into the unfamiliar role of a patient during therapy sessions. This shift would compel her to look in the mirror and try a radically different approach.
The Alexander Family Learned A Big Lesson During A Therapy Session
In therapy, the Alexanders are tasked with addressing their individual traumas to salvage their remaining relationships. One of the family therapist’s eccentric suggestions was an exercise involving a family wrestling match. During this session, Paige faces tough questions about her refusal to share information about Finn's father.
While it's unclear whether this scene is reality or fantasy, the image of the family duking it out in the ring certainly makes for hilarious yet compelling television.
Paige Tries Dating Again Following Failed Relationships
Amid her life's chaos, Paige decides to step back into the dating field. However, her many attempts have left her with mixed results. The dating apps have turned out to be a fail, and an outing with her ex Mal (Marque Richardson), who is also her father's parole officer, doesn’t go quite as expected after he brings an unexpected guest – his new girlfriend.
The situation takes an awkward turn when Mal's new partner learns why the former couple split, partly due to Paige's self-sabotage.
UnPrisoned Is A Perfect Balance Of Comedy And Drama
As a dramedy, UnPrisoned takes a comedic approach to its heavy subjects. The show takes us on a ride with Paige's dating misadventures and navigating a friendship with her ex.
Other lighthearted moments include Edwin's attempts at CPR based on online videos and, of course, the antics of the Alexander family's unconventional new healing coach.
The second season of UnPrisoned is now available on Hulu.
UnPrisoned | Season 2 Trailer | Hulu
Feature image courtesy
'Love Island USA' Star JaNa Craig On The Reality Of Black Women On Dating Shows
Love Island USA just wrapped up its sixth season, and it has been the talk of the town. According to Nielsen, it's the No. 1 show on streaming, proving it's just as entertaining as the UK version. One of the reasons this season has been successful is due to the authentic relationships formed between the islanders in the villa.
You have the sisterhood between Serena Page, JaNa Craig, and Leah Kateb, aka PPG, and the real relationship moments between couples like Serena Page and Kordell Beckham, who were named the winners of this season. The other finalists include Leah Kateb and Miguel Harichi, Nicole Jacky and Kendall Washington, and JaNa Craig and Kenny Rodriguez.
While JaNa made it to the finale with her boo Kenny, her journey in the villa was far from perfect. Viewers saw the Las Vegas native get her heart stomped on a few times after many of her connections didn't work out.
At one point, it even looked like she was getting kicked off the island. While she had a lot of support from people watching the show, it was clear that she was in a position that many Black women on reality dating shows find themselves in: not being desired.
It has been an ongoing conversation among Black women watching reality dating shows as we see time and time again that non-Black women or racially ambiguous-looking women are often chosen over Black women, especially dark-skinned women. In a discussion with Shadow and Act, JaNa opened up about the support she received from viewers.
@cineaxries i love them 🤧 #janacraig #janaandkenny #loveislandusa #foryou #peacock #loveisland #janaloveisland #xybca #kennyloveisland #janaedit #loveislandedit #janaedits #loveislandusaedit #viral #loveislandusaseason6 #foryoupage #peacocktv
"You know what’s so crazy? I’m so grateful, because when I got my phone, the way they’re making us The Princess and The Frog…I felt honored. I will be that beautiful chocolate queen if I need to be. And the comments like 'beautiful chocolate girl,' I’m like, all Black women are beautiful. There’s the whole light skin versus dark skin, which breaks my heart. I just really don’t understand that, but I will take pride and represent us well," she said.
She also candidly discussed her experience as a dark-skinned Black woman on the show. JaNa and Serena had been in the villa since the first episode, and they were the only dark-skinned Black women there. As new men aka bombshells came into the villa, they found themselves not being wanted by many of them.
"Me and Serena literally had a heart-to-heart before Kenny came in and she’s like, I just don’t think it’s fair that the Black girls don’t get enough fair chance.' Every islander that came in, we were not their top pick. And we just [thought], maybe because we’re Black girls, and the dark-skinned Black girls. It sucked," she said.
"I’m like, 'Serena, we know what we bring to the table. We’re great personalities. A guy’s going to come in for us.' That’s when we manifested what we wanted, and that’s when I manifested Kenny."
@ashleyvera__ We love to see it 🥰 #loveislandusa #loveisland #loveisland2024 #janaandkenny #loveislandseason6 #peacock #realitytv #fypage
After many failed connections, Kenny came in and immediately turned JaNa's experience around. America watched the model get the care and attention that she deserved.
"I’m not going to hold you. When I was in the bottom for a quick second, I’m like, ‘There’s no way America doesn’t [ride for us]. I know Black America had to ride for me, but maybe because I’m a dark-skinned … hmm … maybe … you feel me? And you saw the Casa Amor lineup. Beautiful, beautiful light-skinned [women]," she said.
"We looked at each other like, 'Damn, Love Island did their big one with this. And every single Casa Amor girl was like, 'You girls are gorgeous, you guys are stunning.' They expressed love. You guys are beautiful and it felt good."
Although she and Kenny came in third place, JaNa is happy that she got her man in the end. "I think the thing I’m most grateful about is the fact that this is a beautiful love story like you guys complement each other and there’s no hate toward the skin color. It’s all love and support. I love that more than anything," she said.
"That’s why I was like, 'I won,' even though I didn’t win. And the fact that Serena won, we were like, 'Yeah, run that.' Either way, we won. And I love the support from all communities."