From argan for hair to rosehip for skin, we’re no strangers to the beauty benefits of oils. However, as with many facets of the skincare industry, not all oils are created equal. While certain oils (like non-comedogenic hemp seed oil) are better suited to breakout-prone skin and others (like marula and almond) are better for dry skin, there’s one underrated all rounder that stands out above the rest, regardless of your skin type; jojoba oil. Here’s everything you need to know about this hardworking skin-loving oil.
What is jojoba oil?
Technically not an oil at all, jojoba (pronounced ho-ho-ba) oil is a wax ester derived from the seed of the Simmondsia chinensis plant. Though it takes on an oily form (and we’re going to continue calling it an oil for the sake of clarity), its wax ester composition is what makes jojoba oil special.
Wax ester is a main component of human sebum (i.e. the oil your skin naturally produces), meaning that jojoba oil functions like the skin’s natural sebum, allowing it to smoothen and condition your skin without clogging pores or triggering acne.
Benefits of jojoba oil for skin
Ideal for use on the face and body, jojoba oil is brimming with skincare benefits.
It smoothens the skin and locks in moisture
Like other facial oils, jojoba oil is an effective emollient, working to soften and smoothen your skin. Its close composition to the skin’s natural sebum allows jojoba oil to aid the skin in retaining moisture.
Anti-inflammatory properties calm and soothe irritated skin
As an anti-inflammatory, jojoba oil is a useful product to keep in your skincare arsenal, particularly for those suffering from irritated, sensitive skin or conditions like rosacea and eczema. It’s also a source of vitamins E and B, zinc, and copper, which helps enhance wound healing and speed up skin cell regeneration.
Helps moderate sebum production and treat acne
Aside from being non-comedogenic (meaning it won’t clog your pores), jojoba oil is anti-inflammatory and antibacterial, meaning it can help soothe the skin and prevent the formation of acne-causing bacteria. However, the key benefit for acneic skin is jojoba oil’s ability to moderate the skin’s natural oil production; by mimicking human sebum, jojoba oil tricks the skin into thinking it has produced enough oil, preventing the overproduction of sebum that often causes breakouts.
How to use jojoba oil in your skincare routine
An incredibly versatile product, pure jojoba oil works well used before your moisturiser or mixed into your cream or lotion of choice. Jojoba oil can also be an effective treatment for thirsty hair, chapped lips, or parched cuticles; just use a few drops on the affected area.
It plays nicely with other ingredients too, meaning you’ll often see jojoba oil incorporated into creams, lotions, serums, facial oils, and cleansing oils.
The best products with jojoba oil
1. The Jojoba Company Ultimate Youth Potion + L22
Boasting the benefits of a serum in oil form, The Jojoba Company Ultimate Youth Potion combines a jojoba and argan oils, vitamin C-rich baobab, and antioxidant CoQ10, with an oil blend that mimics the lipid profile of a healthy 22-year-old, working to hydrate, restore, and nourish the skin.
2. Go-To Face Hero
Lightweight yet supremely nourishing, the Go-To Face Hero combines the power of jojoba oil with nine other potent botanical and nuts oils, including the likes of almond, macadamia, rosehip, and buruti. We like this one before moisturiser or mixed into foundation for extra dewiness.
3. The Jojoba Company Australian Jojoba
Nothing but 100% Australian jojoba oil; use your face, the ends of your hair, or mixed into moisturiser for lasting hydration.
4. Pai Skincare Love & Haight Moisturiser
Ideal for dry to very dry skin, the Pai Skincare Love & Haight Moisturiser harnesses the benefits of avocado and jojoba oils to restore moisture to the skin, while preventing transepidermal water loss.
5. Votary Rose Geranium And Apricot Cleansing Oil
This delightfully scented cleansing oil works to gently remove even the most stubborn makeup, impurities, and sunscreen. A nourishing blend of sunflower seed, jojoba, and apricot oils ensure the skin feels clean and balanced after use.
Words by AR Staff
