Why Is Jojoba Oil So Good For Skin?

September 1, 2022 Biome

Originally published 2022, updated 2026.

Jojoba oil is considered one of the most skin-compatible plant oils because its structure closely resembles the skin’s natural sebum. This helps it moisturise deeply without feeling overly heavy, which is why jojoba oil is commonly used for dry, sensitive, combination and acne-prone skin.

Naturally rich in wax esters, antioxidants and fatty acids, jojoba oil is often used to support the skin barrier, soften dryness and nourish the skin without the greasy feel associated with some heavier oils.

First gaining popularity in the 1970s — remember your mother or grandmother’s cosmetics cabinet? — the benefits of jojoba oil are being rediscovered again today for minimalist skincare and sensitive skin routines.

What is jojoba oil?

Pronounced ho-ho-ba, jojoba oil comes from the seeds of the plant Simmondsia Chinensis. Native to desert regions of Arizona, California and Mexico, the jojoba plant is as impressive as the benefits it brings to your hair and skin. It thrives in dry climates with very little water, making it remarkably hardy and well suited to harsh conditions that many other crops would struggle to tolerate.

Because jojoba requires relatively little water or agricultural input compared to many conventional crops, it is often considered a lower-impact option for natural skincare and is now widely grown in dry climates, including parts of Australia.

Indigenous people of North America traditionally used jojoba oil in cooking, cosmetics and as medicine. Burns, sores and wounds were regularly treated with jojoba oil, and it has long been valued as both a skin-softening oil and a base for massage oils and other cosmetics.

Technically, jojoba oil is not actually an oil at all. It is a liquid wax ester, which is part of what makes it so unique in skincare. Jojoba oil has long been known for its gentle, nourishing properties, but what makes it particularly unique is its ability to moisturise deeply without leaving skin feeling overly greasy or coated.

Why does jojoba oil work so well on skin?

Well, it is a matter of like attracting like. The jojoba plant is one of the only plants to produce a liquid wax ester with a structure remarkably similar to the oily layer naturally produced by our skin.

Our skin produces an oily, waxy substance known as sebum, which helps keep skin moisturised, plump and protected. Sebum also supports skin elasticity and helps prevent moisture loss. As we age, natural sebum production can slow down, which is one reason skin may begin to feel drier or less supple over time.

Part of our sebum is made up of wax esters — and it is these wax esters that closely resemble jojoba oil at a molecular level.

Because the structures are so similar, many people find jojoba oil absorbs easily and moisturises more deeply than heavier oils without leaving behind excessive residue or greasiness.

Why is jojoba oil so beneficial for skin?

What makes jojoba oil so loved in skincare is both the way it behaves on the skin and the naturally occurring nutrients it contains.

Omega 6 and Omega 9

Jojoba oil contains fatty acids including Omega 6 and Omega 9. Omega 6 helps support the skin barrier, keeping skin feeling smooth and moisturised, while Omega 9 helps skin feel soft and supple.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is one of jojoba oil’s most valued nutrients. It helps support the skin against everyday environmental stress while helping skin retain moisture.

Vitamins A and D

Jojoba oil also naturally contains vitamins A and D, which contribute to its reputation as a nourishing option for dry, mature or tired-looking skin.

Trace nutrients

Other naturally occurring nutrients found in jojoba oil may include chromium, copper and zinc.

Why do people use jojoba oil on their skin?

There are a few key reasons jojoba oil has remained such a popular natural skincare ingredient.

It is lightweight and generally considered non-comedogenic

Jojoba oil is unlikely to clog pores, which is one reason many people with oily, combination or acne-prone skin prefer it over heavier oils. Because it absorbs relatively easily, it helps moisturise without leaving behind excessive greasiness.

If you would like to learn more about this specifically, read our guide: Does jojoba oil clog pores?

It is gentle on sensitive or dry skin

Pure jojoba oil is fragrance free and generally considered gentle, making it a popular option for sensitive skin and minimalist skincare routines.

Jojoba oil is often used for dry or irritated skin, including rough patches, chapped or sun-exposed skin, and dry, scaly skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. It is also commonly used to help soften the appearance of scars and stretch marks, although results will vary from person to person.

It contains antioxidant and antimicrobial properties

Jojoba oil naturally contains vitamin E, giving it antioxidant properties that help support skin exposed to everyday environmental stress.

It has also been studied for its antimicrobial and antifungal properties, which is one reason it is commonly used in skincare routines for acne-prone or easily irritated skin.

Many people use it for dry or mature skin

Because jojoba oil is rich in fatty acids and vitamins, it is often used in skincare routines for dry, mature or dehydrated skin.

While jojoba oil will not reverse ageing, its nourishing fatty acids and vitamin E content make it a popular choice for helping mature skin feel softer, smoother and more comfortable as collagen production naturally slows with age.

If you are trying to work out whether jojoba oil suits your particular skin type, you can also read: Is jojoba oil the best facial oil for your skin type?

How is jojoba oil commonly used?

Many people use jojoba oil as part of simple skincare and body care routines because it feels lightweight while still helping skin feel moisturised and comfortable.

Jojoba oil is commonly used:

as a facial oil
under moisturiser
for oil cleansing
as a makeup remover
on dry hands, elbows and cuticles
to smooth dry hair ends or scalp dryness
as a massage or body oil

Because jojoba oil absorbs relatively easily, many people find it layers well underneath sunscreen or makeup compared to heavier oils.

For hair, a small amount can be applied to the ends of damp or dry hair, or massaged into the scalp before washing. Some people also use jojoba oil as a scalp treatment to help soften dry scalp buildup or reduce the feeling of dryness around the scalp and hairline.

Because jojoba oil is lightweight, a little usually goes a long way.