Jojoba (Simmondsia Chinensis) is a shrub native to the Mojave and Sonoran deserts in the United States and Mexico. The jojoba plant typically grows from 1 to 2 meters, with oval-shaped leaves and petal-less flowers. It bears a nut-like fruit that contains a single seed from which, jojoba oil is extracted from. Technically, the jojoba seed extract is actually wax esters and not oil. The wax ester is made of a mixture of beneficial fatty acids and fatty alcohols. According to experts, jojoba oil is almost similar to the oil naturally produced by the skin. When applied to the skin, jojoba oil reduces skin oil production by deceiving the skin that it is part of its natural production.
The many uses of jojoba oil were known to Native Americans and Mexicans long time ago. Long before jojoba products are commercially available, Natives used jojoba oil for skin disorders, especially for wound treatment and faster healing. Today, different products like jojoba shampoo, jojoba cream, jojoba lotion, and pure jojoba oil are advertised for their many cosmetic benefits.
Jojoba Oil Benefits
- Organic Jojoba oil is a wonderful skin moisturiser. It is easily absorbed by the skin and does not evaporate like water based moisturisers for longer lasting moisture. A well moisturised skin keeps it supple, toned, and intact for total skin health.
- Jojoba oil has anti-aging effects. Pure jojoba oil is rich in Vitamin E, one of the antioxidant vitamins with powerful anti-aging properties.
- Pure jojoba oil has antibacterial action for the skin. It can be used to treat cuts, bruises, burns, and cuts. It also promotes scar formation for faster healing.
- Jojoba oil is anti-acne and non-comedogenic. When applied, the skin perceives jojoba oil as human skin oil and the produces less oil. Less production of skin oil prevents acne and comedones.
- Jojoba oil for face is a natural make up remover and cleanser. It protects the face against damage from left-over make ups. Jojoba oil also cleanses dust and other harmful elements.
- Jojoba oil moisturises the scalp. The scalp is a modified skin that also needs continuous moisture. Use of jojoba oil helps prevent scalp dryness and itchy flaking.
- Jojoba oil for hair supports normal growth and restores from hair damage. It stimulates hair follicles to grow healthy and shiny hair. Jojoba shampoo and conditioners are also used to restore the hair’s natural glow, texture, and luster from hair damage due to styling.
- Jojoba oil moisturises the lips. It can be a natural alternative for lip balms.
- Jojoba oil is used for healthy nails. It helps to strengthen cuticles and make them look pinkish for total nail health. Additionally, it prevents the nails from being fragile.
Jojoba Oil Side Effects
There are no known jojoba oil side effects. All reported jojoba oil uses are external. It shouldn’t be taken orally or other internal use to prevent any untoward side effects.
