Jojoba oil's many benefits: why the facial oil should be top of your to-try list.

When I discovered rosehip oil, I thought I’d found the ultimate skincare product. I called it “life-saving” and I wasn’t exaggerating – my previously dry and scaly skin suddenly found itself hydrated and healthy looking.

I was convinced nothing could top it… then I tried jojoba oil.

The benefits of jojoba oil are endless – it’s great for your face, nails and hair.

What is jojoba oil?

Pronounced “ho-ho-ba”, the oil is made from the seeds of the jojoba plant (and technically speaking, is really closer to a wax than an oil). In its purest form, it’s a yellow-golden colour with a slightly nutty smell but refined it becomes colourless and odourless.

Suitable for all skin types (especially sensitive skin), jojoba oil is renowned for it’s revitalising and moisturising properties.

What are jojoba oil’s benefits?

Because its structure is similar to that of the sebum healthy skin naturally produces, your skin “recognises” it as its own and opens up your pores allowing it to easily and quickly absorb into your skin. As a result, you don’t get that greasy after feeling.

It’s also fantastic at softening hard and rough skin and treating skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis, as well as scarring, stretch marks and even nappy rash.

What are jojoba oil’s other uses?

You don’t need to have a specific skin condition to reap the benefits. My skin is dehydrated and my complexion uneven, meaning I often wake up with red, splotchy patches on my face. I applied jojoba oil to my face after taking off my makeup (when skin is at its reddest) and within two minutes there was a noticeable difference.

My skin looked fresh (almost dewy without being shiny) and felt incredibly soft, smooth and hydrated without being oily.

I typically apply to my face at night (recommended use is two to three drops applied on a damp face) but it would also work well in the morning, as a base before makeup or even as a way to smooth and even out the skin and wear nothing on days when you'd typically use a tinted moisturiser or BB cream.

Jojoba oil is great for nails and hair

The uses don't stop at your neck though.

You can even use it as makeup remover by itself, rub into your cuticles or even use it as a conditioning treatment for dry hair and scalp.

To make the most jojoba, go for the pure base or carrier oil which can be used in a multitude of ways.

Add it to your existing moisturiser as a booster, use it as a massage oil or try using it on your hair  - it's reputed to stimulate hair growth as a treatment and works great as a frizz tamer after styling (just use sparingly).

Do you use jojoba oil? Which is your go-to face oil?