Origin
California
Active Compounds
Wax Esters: Jojoba oil is unique among plant oils because it primarily consists of wax esters, which are long-chain fatty acids attached to a fatty alcohol. The predominant wax ester in jojoba oil is:
- Eicosenoic Acid (C20:1): This monounsaturated fatty acid makes up a significant portion of the wax esters in jojoba oil. Wax esters are structurally similar to human sebum, the skin’s natural oil, making jojoba oil well-suited for skincare applications.
Fatty Acids: In addition to wax esters, jojoba oil contains other fatty acids, including:
- Oleic Acid (Omega-9): This monounsaturated fatty acid has moisturizing and softening properties, helping to hydrate and nourish the skin.
- Palmitic Acid: This saturated fatty acid helps stabilize the oil and contributes to its texture and consistency.
- Linoleic Acid (Omega-6): This polyunsaturated fatty acid has anti-inflammatory properties and helps maintain the skin barrier, promoting hydration and elasticity.
Tocopherols (Vitamin E): Jojoba oil contains tocopherols, a form of vitamin E, which have antioxidant properties and help protect the skin from oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Vitamin E also helps moisturize and soothe the skin, promoting a healthy complexion.
Phytosterols: Jojoba oil contains phytosterols, plant compounds with anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and calm irritated skin. Phytosterols also help strengthen the skin barrier, reducing moisture loss and improving overall skin health.
Polyphenols: Jojoba oil contains polyphenolic compounds, including phenolic acids and flavonoids, which have antioxidant properties and help protect the skin from environmental damage. These compounds help neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress.
Minerals: Jojoba oil contains small amounts of minerals, including zinc, copper, and selenium, which play essential roles in skin health. These minerals help support various physiological functions in the skin and contribute to its overall well-being.
Triglycerides: Although present in smaller amounts compared to wax esters, jojoba oil also contains triglycerides, which are a type of fat composed of glycerol and fatty acids. Triglycerides help moisturize and soften the skin, improving its texture and appearance.
Squalene: Jojoba oil contains squalene, a natural compound found in human sebum that helps moisturize and protect the skin. Squalene has emollient properties and helps prevent moisture loss, keeping the skin hydrated and supple.
Benefits
Moisturizing: Jojoba oil is similar in structure to the natural oils (sebum) produced by the skin, making it an excellent moisturizer. It helps hydrate the skin without clogging pores, leaving it soft, smooth, and supple.
Balancing Sebum Production: Despite being an oil, jojoba oil can help regulate sebum production in oily or acne-prone skin. It mimics the skin’s natural oils, signaling to the skin that it has produced enough oil, which can help prevent excess oiliness and breakouts.
Soothing and Calming: Jojoba oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and calm irritated or inflamed skin. It may help reduce redness, itching, and inflammation associated with conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis.
Antibacterial and Antimicrobial: Jojoba oil contains compounds like vitamin E and phytosterols that have antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. It can help cleanse the skin and protect against bacteria, fungi, and other harmful microorganisms.
Non-Comedogenic: Jojoba oil is non-comedogenic, meaning it doesn’t clog pores. It’s suitable for all skin types, including acne-prone and sensitive skin. It can be used as a facial moisturizer, makeup remover, or as a carrier oil for essential oils.
Anti-aging: Jojoba oil is rich in antioxidants like vitamin E and phenolic compounds that help protect the skin from oxidative stress and premature aging. It may help reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots, promoting a more youthful complexion.
Wound Healing: Jojoba oil has wound-healing properties that can promote faster healing of cuts, scrapes, and minor burns. It forms a protective barrier over the skin, keeping the wound area clean and hydrated, which aids in the healing process.
Hair Care: Jojoba oil is beneficial for hair health and can be used as a natural conditioner and scalp treatment. It helps moisturize the scalp, reduce dandruff, and strengthen hair follicles, promoting healthier, shinier, and more manageable hair.
Makeup Removal: Jojoba oil is an effective and gentle makeup remover. Its oily texture helps dissolve makeup, dirt, and impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oils. It’s suitable for use on the face, eyes, and lips.
Nail and Cuticle Care: Jojoba oil can help moisturize and strengthen nails and cuticles. Massaging jojoba oil into the nails and cuticles can help prevent dryness, cracking, and hangnails, promoting healthier nails and hands.