Why I Love Grapeseed Oil (and Why You Should Too!)

I’m big on reducing waste. I compost my food scraps, I recycle my bottles and cans, and I take quick showers. So you can imagine how happy it makes me to use ingredients that derive from things that might otherwise be discarded. And if that ingredient also has amazing benefits for skin, hair, and overall health? Even better.

Meet Grapeseed Oil – One of the Ingredients I Love

Grapeseed oil is basically what it says on the label – oil that is derived from grape seeds. Grape seeds are usually discarded as part of the wine making process, but when they are saved and their oil is extracted, you end up with a light colored, faintly sweet smelling oil that carries great benefits for the skin and hair. Here are a few of my favorites:

1. Grapeseed Oil is Great for Oily Skin: I know many of us with oily skin prefer to stay away from anything remotely oil-like, but this oil is different. When applied to the face, this oil can help your body regulate its oil production without feeling heavy or greasy. Because it’s non-comedogenic, it won’t clog your pores, further enhancing its benefits for anyone with oily skin.

2. Grapeseed Oil Helps Fight Acne: If you have oily skin, you’re probably familiar with the frustrations of acne. Grapeseed oil contains compounds that make it a great choice for clearing acne and keeping new breakouts from occurring. Most notable is the oligomeric proanthocyanidins complex (say that five times fast). This antioxidant complex neutralizes free radicals, as well as reduces inflammation, both of which help to keep acne under control.

3. Grapeseed Oil Helps Tighten the Skin: This oil has mild astringent properties, which encourages skin tissues to tighten and draw together. The result? Naturally tighter, younger looking skin.

4. Grapeseed Oil Helps Reduce Wrinkles and Scars: Remember our friend OPC? This antioxidant doesn’t just treat acne – it also helps to boost collagen’s ability to repair itself. With regular use this may help to fade scars and keep your complexion looking younger. Grapeseed oil also contains linoleic acid, a fatty acid that helps encourage collagen growth.

5. Grapeseed Oil Provides Balanced Moisturization: It may sound counter-intuitive, but the last thing you want to do with oily skin is allow it to dry out. Oiliness can occur when the skin is too dry, which makes moisturization important for anyone with this skin type. Grapeseed oil gives your skin balance, moisturizing dry patches without bogging down oilier spots.

Grapeseed oil does not have any common side effects when used on the skin. However, if you are allergic to grapes it’s best to stay away from this ingredient. If you have sensitive skin, it’s always a good idea to test any new product on a small patch before use on a larger area.

I love this type of oil because it’s a light, lovely tool to help keep your skin’s oils in balance. Have you ever tried a product containing grapeseed oil? If so, did you notice any changes in your skin? Let me know about it in the comments below!