3 Reasons Jojoba Oil Is Your Skin-Care Superhero

Any beauty oil that lands itself on the shelves at Trader Joe’s has our attention, particularly when it’s the triple threat of beauty products. Need a new cleanser? A natural makeup remover? Or even help growing out those bangs you swore you wouldn’t regret? Jojoba oil’s got your back. Here’s how.

So, what is it?
Technically it’s an odorless wax extracted from the jojoba shrub, but it has an oil-like texture. It absorbs easily because it mimics the natural sebum your skin produces, but it also regulates it, resulting in always dewy, never greasy skin (and scalp).

And why is it so great?
A few reasons: It’s gentle enough for all skin types because of its similarities to your own sebum. It hydrates dry skin and hair, and also acts as a two-way barrier, sealing in moisture while fending off environmental stressors. Its anti-inflammatory properties even make it a great one-ingredient face wash for blemish-prone skin types.

How do you use it?
For hair growth: Massage a few drops into your scalp to nourish hair at the roots. Leave on for 20 minutes, then shampoo, condition and rinse per usual. Because jojoba oil actually hydrates hair from the inside out, you'll notice fuller, thicker strands.

For dry skin and lips: After cleansing and toning, apply a few drops to your fingers and smooth them over your face in upward and outward motions until absorbed (grab a jade roller if you want to turn it into a mini spa moment). And instead of reaching for your lip balm every two seconds, apply a drop or two of jojoba oil to your pout for lasting softness and protection.

As a makeup remover: Soak a cotton ball with the oil and rub it over face, eyes and lips. Then dampen another cotton ball with water and repeat to remove all the oil and makeup. For extra stubborn mascara, lightly press a jojoba oil-soaked cotton ball to each lid for ten seconds, then wipe away any leftover makeup.