Commonly referred to as an oil, Jojoba (ho-HO-ba) is actually a liquid wax that comes from the beans of a shrub native to southern Arizona, California, and northwestern Mexico. Unlike other traditional oils used on the skin, Jojoba is very similar to our skin’s natural oil, or sebum, as it is mostly comprised of mono wax esters.
Healing Properties
The following vitamins and fatty acids found in Jojoba oil help give it its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal properties:
Gadoleic Acid: Closely resembles human sebum and is great for the scalp and penetrating deep into the skin.
Oleic Acid: Moisturizing, anti-aging and soothing fatty acid that helps keep skin soft while also repairing damaged cells present in conditions like eczema.
Linoleic Acid: Although only present in a small amount, when converted by the body, this omega-6 fatty acid is helpful in reducing inflammation.
Rich in Vitamin E: Powerful antioxidant that heals and soothes irritated skin, helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and rejuvenates and moisturizes the skin.
Vitamin B Complex: Antioxidant properties that help ward cell damage.
Rich in Iodine: Gives Jojoba its healing antibacterial and antifungal powers.
Uses
Eye-Makeup Remover: Dab a small amount onto a round cotton pad and gently rub over your eyelids to remove mascara, eyeliner, and eyeshadow.
Tip: A little goes a long way so start with just a drop or two! Wipe excess oil off with a tissue or simply rub it into your skin for extra moisturization.
Lightweight Summer Moisturizer: Jojoba most closely resembles our skin’s natural oils or sebum, and therefore it absorbs deeply into the skin making it an excellent lightweight moisturizer. It’s also noncomedogenic so it won’t clog pores! This is my go-to moisturizer when I’m traveling in tropical, hot and humid climates because it absorbs quickly and keeps me feeling soft all day. It also helps reduce the effects of sunburn, and has mild astringent (drying) properties, so it keeps my skin from being oily on those hot, humid days ;)
Tip: This works best when applied after bathing while your skin is still moist. For those of you with dry skin like me, I only recommend this for hot, summer days, as Jojoba oil alone can be drying in the winter.
Oily Skin Balancer: Jojoba works wonders in helping to balance out our skin’s natural oils, especially for those with oily skin. Because Jojoba closely resembles sebum, it tricks our body into producing less oil while also removing dirt and buildup from our skin.
Tip: Use the oil cleansing method for best results. Massage your face with a small amount of Jojoba oil, working it in around your nose, t-zone and other build-up prone areas. Allow the oil to work it’s magic for 5-10 minutes, then take a soft washcloth and run it under warm-hot water. Place the washcloth over your face and gently wipe (don’t rub!). Rinse the washcloth and repeat once or twice. The steam and warm water will be enough to remove the excess oil, leaving your face feeling soft and fresh!
Acne-Control: Jojoba oil penetrates deep into the skin, unclogging blocked pores and removing built-up bacteria that causes acne. It’s natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties are perfect for healing acne-prone skin. Simply do a spot treatment with organic, unrefined Jojoba oil 2-3x/day. Note that it’s natural for your skin to get drier at first, but eventually your skin’s natural oils will balance themselves out as you continue the spot treatment.
Carrier Oil: After coconut oil, Jojoba is my favorite carrier oil for homemade skincare recipes because of its long shelf life, lightweight quality, and quick absorption into the skin.
Tip: Add a few drops to your soaps and body washes, shampoos and even conditioners for an extra moisture kick ;)
Scalp + Hair Moisturizer: Because Jojoba absorbs deep into the skin, it works well as a scalp and hair moisturizer, hydrating hair follicles from the inside out. It will also naturally soften dry hair without making it too shiny or oily. It’s natural emollient properties help seal moisture into dry, split-ends (perfect for my thirsty curls!), and it’s also great for treating dry scalp and dandruff. Simply massage directly into scalp and hair and leave on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing out.
Tip: Wear a shower cap in the shower until you’re ready to wash your hair to allow for extra absorption and to prevent damage from any hard minerals that might be present in your water. I feel the steam buildup helps the oil sink in even deeper.
Aftershave: To soothe skin after shaving, gently massage a few drops onto shaven skin to condition and soften.
Tip: Mix in a few drops of pure aloe vera gel to help cool and soothe razor burn.
Frizz-Control + Curl-Definer: For a quick frizz fix, rub a small amount into your fingertips and lightly apply to frizzy areas. Works best when applied to damp hair after washing.
Tip: Remove excess water from freshly washed hair. Rub a nickel size amount lightly into your hands, finger through wet hair from the nape down and then scrunch. Twirl your finger around the bottom of your curls to add a little extra oil and definition to any dry ends.
Where to Buy
My go-to place for organic, consciously sourced ingredients is Mountain Rose Herbs. Not only do they provide an array of high-quality organic products, they are also dedicated to environmental sustainability and fair trade.
But if you want to save on the shipping costs, my next favorite is Aura Cacia’s Organic Jojoba Oil, which can be found at Fresh Thyme, Whole Foods, and other natural food stores.
Recipes
Antiseptic Hand Spray: Looking for an alcohol-free hand sanitizer that you can whip up in minutes? This is the perfect recipe for you!
- Ingredients
- Vinegar
- 5-10 drops of organic lavender essential oil
- 3 tsp Jojoba Oil
- 4 oz spray bottle
- Method
- Place 3 tsp of Jojoba Oil into the spray bottle then fill with vinegar.
- Add the lavender essential oil, shake and use!
- Tip: Shake before using. Any vinegar scent you experience will fade a few moments after applying.
Bug Repellent Oil: This is a great lightweight bug oil for everyday use. I wouldn’t recommend it for camping but it should do the trick for regular outdoor use ;)
- Ingredients
- 6 tbsp Organic Jojoba Oil
- 12-15 drops Organic Lavender Essential Oil
- 3-5 drops Organic Eucalyptus Oil
- Method
- Mix all ingredients together and store in a reusable jar.
- Tip: I like to use a small glass jar with a dropper for easy use.