Facial oils are a wonderful way to moisturize the skin without heavy creams. Jojoba oil is pressed from the seeds of a plant called simmondsia chinensis, a plant that grows in the arid desert climates of North America. Jojoba oil is an oil that mimics the skin’s natural oils, called sebum. It helps stabilize and balance the skin’s natural oil production by telling the skin that its produced enough oil and can stop.
Jojoba oil is very lightweight and non-greasy, so it applies smoothly and dries quickly. Its anti-inflammatory, which means that it can help soothe red, irritated skin. On top of this, the oil is moisturizing and can minimize dry, flaking skin. It has emollient properties that soften and smooth the skin. At a molecular level, jojoba oil is waxy, sealing on the surface of the skin instead of clogging the pores.
It also contains Vitamin E, a great anti-inflammatory. Vitamin E is often used to minimize the appearance of scars because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. It also contains antioxidants, which minimize free radicals that cause premature signs of aging. Because jojoba mimics the skin’s natural oils, it’s noncomedogenic and won’t clog the skin’s pores.
In terms of acne-prone skin, jojoba is known to have antimicrobial and antifungal properties that help reduce new blemishes from appearing. In addition, its anti-inflammatory properties are useful in calming blemishes and redness. The Vitamin E can help minimize the appearance of scarring on the face.
Jojoba oil is safe to use on a daily basis, once or twice a day depending on your skin. It can be used as a part of your normal facial skincare routine. Cleanse the skin, apply any serums and moisturizer creams, then apply your oil afterwards. Jojoba oil does not need to be diluted and is safe to apply directly on the skin, hair, and nails.
Additional ways to use jojoba oil include applying to dry, cracked lips, applying to dry, frizzy hair, or using to cleanse makeup off the eyes and face. You can also add jojoba oil to DIY face masks.
Honey and Jojoba Oil Facemask
Mix together, apply for 30 minutes, then rinse with warm water.
Oats and Jojoba Oil Facemask
Mix together and apply. Allow to dry 20 minutes then rinse with warm water.
Jojoba Oil Sugar Scrub
Mix together and gently scrub the lips. Apply 2-3x per week and follow with lip balm or oil.
Deep Conditioning Hair Mask
Mix the oils, excepting the essential oil, together over a double boiler. Once the oils are warmed, remove from the heat, and add lavender oil. Mix well, then massage into the hair. Let sit for 30-45 minutes, then wash and condition your hair.