Master the Art & Science of Lipid Oil & Herbal Skincare
In-Depth Education in Oils, Butters & Herbal Extracts
Where would you like to begin?
A Guide to Carrier Oils
An in-depth, practical guide to using carrier oils in skincare, herbalism, and aromatherapy. Learn about properties, skin benefits, sourcing tips, uses and benefits.
The Formulator's Toolbox
A monthly subscription for formulators who want seasonal recipes, ingredient guides, and access to our searchable Lipid Oils & Butters database—updated regularly with new tools and inspiration.
Explore Courses
Explore our courses in carrier oils and formulation—designed for herbalists, skincare makers, and educators who want to go deeper.
About us
Susan M Parker is the author of Power of the Seed and has spent over 30 years studying and teaching about carrier oils, lipids, and herbal skincare. Her teaching blends science, tradition, and deep respect for the plant world.
Olivia Parker is a digital strategist and co-creator of Lipid Oils Academy. She works behind the scenes to shape our courses, content, and student experience—keeping the learning accessible, elegant, and focused.
Together, we teach the art and science of working with oils, plant butters, and botanicals through a layered, self-paced approach designed to support serious learners, formulators, and practitioners.
Oh—and yes, we’re a mother–daughter team, having fun and creating beauty along the way.
I love being able to log on and get whatever information I need when I need it. I don’t know how anyone who formulates with oils goes without being a part of the membership.
Mary Jane Poole ● Esthetician & Skincare Formulator
Susan is THE teacher you want to study with if you really want to dive deep into the world of lipid oils and butters.
ANGIE KOENIGSBERG ● Student
This course taught me what oils to combine to achieve my desired formulation. I loved how each module built on the previous module. I was lost until I attended this course.
IMOHABASI JAGUN ● student
Power of the Seed
Your guide to oils for health & beauty
"Every seed has the capacity to make oil and carries unique properties from the parent plant. While all oils have a common structural similarity, each plant’s seed brings something special to the individual commodity. Spicy, tangy olive oil is uniquely different from rich, flavorful, and solid coconut oil. Contrast similar oil dichotomies throughout the plant kingdom, and the range, variety, qualities, and properties possible become truly astonishing.”
~from the Introduction of Power of the Seed
