Jojoba Oil is the closest match of any plant oils to our skin's own sebum (oil).
Here we break down the various properties and include a few links to the research available.
Skincare Properties
Jojoba oil is a popular natural oil that is derived from the seeds of the jojoba plant, which is native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. It has a number of benefits for the skin, including:
Moisturizing: Jojoba oil is similar in composition to the natural oils produced by our skin, making it an excellent moisturizer. It is easily absorbed and does not leave a greasy residue.
Anti-inflammatory: Jojoba oil contains natural anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness and inflammation in the skin.
Non-comedogenic: Unlike many other oils, jojoba oil is non-comedogenic, meaning it does not clog pores or cause acne.
Anti-aging: Jojoba oil is rich in antioxidants, including vitamins E and A, which can help protect the skin from free radical damage that can lead to premature aging.
Gentle: Jojoba oil is gentle enough to be used on sensitive skin and can help soothe skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
It is a versatile and beneficial ingredient that can be used in a variety of skincare products or on its own as a natural moisturizer.
Fatty Acid Profile
Jojoba oil is unique among plant oils in that it is composed primarily of wax esters rather than triglycerides. Wax esters are made up of fatty acids and alcohols. Here is the fatty acid profile:
Eicosenoic acid (C20:1) - 70-75%
Docosenoic acid (C22:1) - 10-15%
Oleic acid (C18:1) - 5-15%
Palmitic acid (C16:0) - 0.1-1%
Stearic acid (C18:0) - 0.1-1%
These fatty acids are also responsible for the oil's stability, as they are highly resistant to oxidation. They also play an important role in its benefits for the skin. Here are some ways in which the fatty acids in jojoba oil can benefit the skin:
The wax esters in jojoba oil help to form a protective barrier on the skin, preventing moisture loss and keeping the skin hydrated.
Eicosenoic acid, the main fatty acid in jojoba oil, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce redness and inflammation in the skin.
Anti-aging: The antioxidants in jojoba oil, which include vitamins E and A, can help protect the skin from free radical damage that can lead to premature aging.
The wax esters in jojoba oil are similar in structure to the natural oils in our skin, and are easily absorbed without clogging pores.
Clinical Studies
There have been several clinical studies conducted on the effectiveness of jojoba oil on the skin. Here are a few examples:
In a study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences in 2018, researchers found that jojoba oil had significant moisturizing and anti-inflammatory effects on the skin. The study concluded that jojoba oil could be an effective ingredient in cosmetic formulations for dry or inflamed skin.
Another study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology in 2011 found that jojoba oil had antibacterial properties, making it effective against acne-causing bacteria. The study also noted that jojoba oil was well-tolerated by the skin and did not cause any irritation or dryness.
A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science in 2012 found that a cream containing jojoba oil improved skin hydration and reduced transepidermal water loss (TEWL) in subjects with dry skin. The study concluded that jojoba oil could be an effective natural ingredient for improving skin hydration and preventing dryness.
It has great wound healing potential, where the epidermis (skin barrier) has been damaged jojoba oil increased the wound healing rate, as well as stimulating collagen production ("Wound healing potential of Simmondsia chinensis seed oil" (2011) in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21211559/ )
It has been studied as an effective topical treatment for dermatitis and eczema (Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Barrier Repair Effects of Topical Application of Some Plant Oils https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5796020/).
Overall, while more research is needed to fully understand the effects of jojoba oil on the skin, these studies suggest that it may have a number of beneficial properties for skincare.
We use Organic Jojoba Oil in a few of our products, including:
Our Youthful Glow Face Serum - a blend of Organic Argan, Rosehip and Jojoba Oils, with powerful antioxidant actives Sea Buckthorn, Pumpkin Seed and nature's very own Retinol Bakuchiol Oil. Check it out here...
Comments