While some oils (coconut, for example) have enjoyed their time in the skincare and hair care spotlight since forever, jojoba oil still remains a lesser known secret. Pronounced ho-ho-bah, this oil mattifies skin instead of rendering it sticky and leaves it looking pore-less and more balanced. It also comes with hydrating, anti-ageing and anti-acne properties, which make it an ingredient to reckon with. Scroll ahead to know more about the beauty component that defies all regular skincare rules.
Jojoba oil is more of a wax than an oil
Cold pressed jojoba oil is made by pressing jojoba nuts between two plates and swapping heat for pressure to remove oil. The end result is a crystalline wax that's liquid at room temperature. Derived from the hearty, perennial jojoba plant that grows in North America, this oil is non-comedogenic and also dries down easily, meaning it doesn't leave any residue on the skin.
Jojoba oil is a powerful ingredient for oily and acne-prone skin types
While those with oily skin are told to stay as far as they can from oil-based formulas, this one might be the exception to the rule—it actually allows you to fight oil with oil. The benefit of this type of oil, and the reason it has an edge over some others, is that its structure closely mirrors the building blocks of skin—specifically human sebum (the oily, waxy substance that lubricates and coats skin)—so the skin recognises it as its own. Because it so closely resembles the skin's natural oil, its application signals that a healthy oil balance has been reached and the skin can now stop producing more oil.
Moreover, jojoba oil also has super small molecules (way smaller than argan or coconut oil's), which makes it less likely to build up on your skin and clog your pores, leading to fewer breakouts and less severe acne. When included as an ingredient in makeup products, jojoba oil fights acne and prevents makeup from clogging pores.
Jojoba oil is great for hydrating dry skin too
For dryer skin types, this ingredient can regulate oil production and act as an emollient and a barrier to seal in hydration. By softening and making skin more pliable and less flaky (emollient property) and sealing in hydration from humectants (occlusive property), jojoba oil applies a two-pronged approach to stop any moisture from leaving the building. This makes it a great remedy for dry or irritated cuticles too. Jojoba oil contains compounds called tocopherols, which are forms of Vitamin E that are effective in eliminating free radicals and thus, slowing the ageing process in the epidermis. Due to this, it helps to strengthen and bolster the skin matrix and can help prevent the formation of fine lines and wrinkles too. Jojoba oil is also an effective remedy for chapped lips because the waxy texture provides a barrier that prevents moisture loss. For best results, use it as the last step after applying a skin hydrator like hyaluronic acid.
The best jojoba oil-infused products to add to your skincare and makeup routine
If you're a purist, the jojoba oil from Ras Luxury Oils can be used both by itself or as a carrier oil (to mix with essential oils). Apply it as a last step in your skincare routine to seal in hydration through the night. Don't want to add another step? Swap your moisturiser with the Ohria Ayurveda Rose & Pomegranate Cream, which combines jojoba and almond oils to deeply hydrate skin, improve elasticity and promote tissue strength. For a boost of moisture and antioxidants in your pre-makeup application, the RMS Beauty Beauty Oil contains jojoba, buriti, tamanu and rosehip oil to prep the skin by hydrating and mattifying it. The Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Oil works in a similar manner—add a few drops to your foundation or apply pre-base for a nourishing and protective veil on the skin. Alternatively, you can also opt for the Kjaer Weis Foundation—the cream base is infused with jojoba oil for a velvety, smooth finish. Want to take the benefits to your lips? The Christian Louboutin Rouge Louboutin Loubibelle lip oil is essentially scarlet-tinted jojoba oil, and can lend a powerful red lip that feels comfortable and lasts long. Tap the feather-light formula onto your pout to impart a just-bitten stain.
Our gallery below lists out all the jojoba oil-infused beauty products that need to make a feature on your vanity. Scroll through to take a look.
