The jojoba plant, native to the North American deserts, is a force to be reckoned with. Not only is it able to survive in conditions most other organisms would die in, but it also produces seeds with endless healing properties. This seed looks similar to a coffee bean, however I can guarantee you it reaps far more rewards.
Jojoba oil is extracted from the seed of the jojoba plant. Rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin E, B-complex vitamins, iodine and zinc, it may be your new best friend for keeping your hair and skin fresh, fierce and fabulous.
Jojoba for your skin
Jojoba oil resembles the natural sebum produced by human skin, thus making it versatile and effective for all skin types. It is safe to use around your eyes and does not need to be diluted, unlike other essential oils. You can therefore apply it directly anywhere on your skin.
1. It is extremely moisturising
As it so closely resembles the natural skin, jojoba oil adds a layer of moisture and protection without feeling thick or overbearing. It acts by moving water from below the skins surface towards the epidermis, thereby keeping the top layer of the skin hydrated and healthy. Lighter than other face oils and even leaving the skin with a warm glow, jojoba oil acts as a fantastic facial moisturiser.
2. It reduces acne
Although one would logically assume that oils block pores and increase acne, jojoba oil does quite the opposite. Its similarity to natural sebum allows it to trick the skin into thinking that it has produced enough sebum. The skin responds by slowing the production of more sebum down. This, in turn, helps regulate the skin’s production of oil, preventing clogged pores and reducing the occurrence of acne. Furthermore, the anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties of jojoba oil further assist in calming acne-prone skin and even reducing the appearance of acne scarring.
3. It heals wounds and scars
As a result of its ability to stimulate collagen synthesis, jojoba oil accelerates wound healing and can even reduce the appearance of scars and stretch marks. Moreover, it is rich in vitamin E. Vitamin E has been recommended by professionals to help with skin scarring. If you are looking to reduce the appearance of these, jojoba oil is just the product for you!
4. It prevents premature aging
The antioxidants contained in jojoba oil help to improve skin elasticity, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and promote a youthful glow. This function is further enhanced with the ample vitamin E the product contains, as well as thorugh its ability to stimulate collagen production. Its moiturising properties also help to keep the skin supple and elastic, slowing the overall appearance of aging.
5. It has antibacterial and antioxidant properties
As jojoba oil is antibacterial, it is suitable for a range of different skin types and conditions. Moreover, this property makes it effective in treating minor skin infections and preventing conditions such ecsema, rashes and even athlete’s foot​. Its antioxidant properties help your skin to fight oxidative stress caused by pollutants and other toxins within the envrionment.
Jojoba for your hair
Sebum is also the oil produced naturally by your scalp. By mimicking this sebum, jojoba oil is a highly effective treatment for all hair types. It is a safe and gentle product and can be applied directly to the roots and worked through to the ends. Doing so regularly provides nourishment and promotes healthy hair growth.
1. It moisturises and strengthens the hair
Jojoba oil provides deep moisture to the hair, preventing dryness and brittleness. It contains long-chain fatty acids that help to retain moisture, making hair strands appear thicker and healthier​. As it is super lightweight, jojoba oil is effective for individuals with fine and thin hair as it is not as heavy as regular conditioners. Either add a few drops to your go-to conditioner and use the two together, or apply the oil directly to your hair strands and/or scalp. For very dry hair, massage the oil into the scalp and comb it through to the ends of the hair. Leave this in overnight and wake up to a lucious, deeply moitsurised result.
2. It promotes and accelerates hair growth
Jojoba oil acts by unclogging hair follicles and regulating sebum production. In this way, it can help prevent hair loss and even promote healthy hair growth. The vitamins and minerals contained in jojoba oil also allow for hair to remain protected and noursihed, allowing it to grow thicker. Finally, its ability to stimulate collagen production also benefits the healthy growth of the hair. By adding a few drops to the scalp regularly, professionals advise that jojoba oil strengthens and moisturises the hair follicles enough to greatly reduce hair loss.
3. It protects hair from damage
As a result of its antioxidant properties, jojoba oil provides a protective barrier against environmental damage such as UV rays and pollution. This helps the hair to maintain its overall health and condition. For those who dye their hair, using jojoba oil can also help to extend the appearance of their colour. Finally, as it contains fatty acids, jojoba oil can protect hair when using styling tools and heated products.
4. It prevents frizz and reduces dandruff
Jojoba oil smooths and conditions hair, reducing frizz and giving it a shiny, healthy bounce. In addition, the moisturising, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties of jojoba oil help to soothe and hydrate the scalp, reducing dandruff and preventing flakiness. Professionals advise individuals suffering from excess dandruff to apply some jojoba oil to the scalp in conjunction with their conditioner after using shampoo. This combination will not only calm a flaky and irritated scalp, but also provide the hair with a glowy, healthy appearance.
Jojoba oil is a magical natural ingredient with the power to heal, protect and nourish your skin and your hair. While it is commonly found in existing skin and hair products on the market, it is most effectively used in its raw form when applied directly to the area of concern.
Incoming: the fresh, fierce, and fabulous you!