If you’ve ever come across the term jojoba oil and wondered what it was, you’re in the right place. A lesser-known skincare ingredient, it can be a great addition for those looking to improve their overall hydration and retain that all-important moisture for plumper skin.

If you’re interested in adding jojoba oil into your skincare regimen, keep reading to find out everything about the ingredient – from the benefits to how to use it correctly.

What is jojoba oil?

“Jojoba oil is derived from the seeds of the Jojoba plant,” explains Dr Derrick Phillips, Consultant Dermatologist at OneWelbeck. “It is technically not an oil but a liquid wax ester that closely resembles the waxy components of our skin’s natural sebum.” Due to its similar texture, it sits very comfortably on the skin and helps to support hydration without feeling too heavy. “Which is why it’s such a popular ingredient in skincare formulations,” he adds.

Jojoba oil skincare benefits

An effective moisturiser due to its composition, the lightweight texture of jojoba oil is among some of its benefits in the skincare arena. “It helps to hydrate the skin and seal in moisture, supporting the skin barrier and reducing water loss, while remaining lightweight and generally well tolerated, including by acne-prone skin,” says Dr Derrick. As well as a hydrator, jojoba oil also contains a naturally occurring vitamin E and other antioxidant compounds, which Dr Derrick says “help protect the skin from everyday environmental stress and support your overall skin health.”

Jojoba oil side effects

Most skin types will find that they can use jojoba oil without issues, but as with any skincare ingredient, there will be a small number of people who find it causes irritation “characterised by redness, swelling and itching” Dr Derrick says. Those who have known allergies to plant oils should avoid jojoba oil as it is not suitable for them.

To make sure you can tolerate jojoba oil without any issues, the dermatologist suggests patch testing any new products before fully integrating them into your routine.

Is jojoba oil good for all skin types?

Due to its composition – structurally jojoba oil is similar to components of the skin’s natural sebum – the ingredient is generally suitable for most skin types. “It can work well for oily and combination skin as a lightweight emollient,” says Dr Derrick, “and for dry skin by helping to reduce moisture loss and support the skin barrier.” However, while it is lightweight, those with acne-prone skin might find jojoba oil – often found in facial oils – isn’t well-suited to their skin, although it can be found in moisturisers too.

How to use jojoba oil on skin

If you’re looking to reap the benefits of jojoba oil, knowing how to use it correctly is important. An ingredient that can be used daily, most people can tolerate using it once or twice a day. “It’s best applied to slightly damp skin or layered over a hydrating serum to help seal in moisture and keep the skin comfortable,” Dr Derrick advises. “You’ll often find it already incorporated into cleansers, moisturisers and makeup removers, but it can also be used on its own as the final step in a routine.”