Meadowfoam Seed Oil Is the New Rosehip Oil. Here’s How to Use It for Your Best Skin Ever

• Dr. Camille Howard is a board-certified dermatologist in NYC. 

Meadowfoam seed oil is derived from the meadowfoam flower (limanthes alba) and contains about 95 percent fatty acids. The oil is odor-free and lightweight on the skin. In a skincare context, the ingredient can be found in bodycare, haircare and facial care products.

Meadowfoam seed oil has a host of benefits that make it an ingredient everyone is trying these days. There haven’t been a ton of studies into the efficacy of meadowfoam seed oil, but preliminary research—and Dr. Howard’s professional opinion—have convinced us it’s definitely worth a shot. 

• It has anti-inflammatory properties. One 2020 study out of Poland found that, alongside other oils, including grapeseed oil and evening primrose oil, meadowfoam seed oil provides anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anticancer properties. 
• It hydrates without feeling greasy. Dr. Howard tells us meadowfoam seed oil is an emollient, meaning it softens and soothes the skin without feeling too oily. “As an emollient, it prevents the loss of water from your skin and keeps the surface hydrated and soft without feeling greasy.” Instead, it leaves your skin smooth, soft and glowy.
• It treats stretch marks. According to a 2015 study, when meadowfoam seed oil is mixed with other oils and butters (shea butter, coconut oil and olive oil), it might increase collagen production and reduce the appearance of stretch marks. 
• It prevents sun damage. In a 2018 study, researchers found that two chemicals in meadowfoam seed oil (3-methoxyphenyl acetonitrile and 3-methoxyphenyl isothiocyanate) are adept at protecting your skin against UV/UVB rays. The ingredient also includes vitamin E which can prevent sun damage and reduce hyperpigmentation. On that note, Dr. Howard tells us you shouldn’t use this in place of your sunscreen. 
• It hydrates your hair. Similar to your skin, meadowfoam seed oil promises to hydrate your dry, dull locks. If you’re dealing with frizz, tangles or brittleness, a few drops of the ingredient can lock in that much needed moisture. Plus, people with color-treated hair can minimize their color from fading and improve shine. 
• It has a long shelf life. The high percentage of fatty acids in meadowfoam seed oil means that it will rarely spoil or lose its quality for up to three years. 

Yes. In fact, Dr. Howard tells us it’s one of the few oils that work for all skin types, especially for sensitive skin. “Meadowfoam seed oil acts similar to the sebum that our skin naturally produces,” she explains. “[It] can help balance our skin’s natural oil production to help foster a more even complexion.” 

Plus, people with oily and/or acne-prone skin (who might try to avoid oils in their skincare) will find that meadowfoam seed oil absorbs quickly without feeling heavy on the skin. Its non-comedogenic properties also help control oil production (and it doesn’t clog pores), so it’s a win-win for everyone.

Meadowfoam seed oil is genuinely safe to use on the skin. However, Dr. Howard recommends a patch test when trying out new ingredients and products for the first time. She suggests applying a pea-size amount to the fold of your elbow twice a day for a week. If you experience any reaction to the ingredient, stop using it immediately and consult with a medical professional.

Whether you use meadowfoam seed oil alone or blend it with other ingredients, there are so many ways you can use it. From skincare to haircare, here are a few to get you started. 

• Add it to your conditioner. You can buy a conditioner that already contains meadowfoam seed oil or you can add a teaspoon to your favorite one. 
• Do a scalp treatment. Just apply a few drops directly to the scalp before starting your wash routine. Give yourself a nice head massage, then let it sit for ten to 15 minutes before rinsing and applying shampoo as usual. A helpful tip: Leave it overnight for softer and shiner locks in the morning. 
• Add it to your moisturizer. Apply a few drops to your daily moisturizer and work the mixture on dry areas. Dr. Howard recommends using meadowfoam seed oil as a final step in your skincare routine to really seal in all the products. 
• Add it to your bodycare. Whether that’s a lotion, body scrub or massage oil, meadowfoam seed oil is a great addition for soft, supple skin. 
• Try some lipcare. Chapped lips? Use meadowfoam seed oil on your lips (or mix it with another emollient like coconut oil, shea butter or beeswax) to keep them moisturized throughout the day. 

Meadowfoam seed oil can be a great addition to your beauty routine. Regardless of your skin type, if you’re looking to hydrate (which…aren’t we all), it’s worth a go, whether you mix it in with your products or apply it directly to your face, body or hair.