Grapeseed Oil for Skin Vs. Cooking: Is There a Difference?

In both cooking and skincare, oil plays an essential role. In cooking, oil is fundamental to hundreds of thousands of dishes. Where would we be without cooking oils? Our taste buds certainly wouldn’t be pleased.

In skincare, oil serves an entirely different purpose. On the one hand, the word “oil” might conjure up negative thoughts. Too much oil causes breakouts, right? Cleansers and moisturizers should always be oil-free, no?

Honestly, for a long time, we thought so too. However, in recent years, oil’s reputation in the skincare world has received a full-on revitalization. Instead of shying away from anything that even suggests it might contain oil, skincare experts and beauty gurus are now flocking towards the stuff. These days, we’re using oil to cleanse, moisturize, and much more.

Of all the most popular oils on the market, it’s rare to find one that is equally powerful in both the culinary world and the skincare world. And yet, they exist, and that is why we’re here today—to discuss one such oil. That would be grapeseed oil.

Here at Gleamin, we’re big fans of this special oil. If you’re curious about all the ways that grapeseed oil will up your game in both cooking and skincare, continue reading.

What Is Grapeseed Oil? 

Unlike olive oil or vegetable oil, grapeseed oil probably isn’t one that you’ll come across in any given kitchen. It’s a bit more unusual, but that’s what makes it special. 

Here’s the tea: grapeseed oil is exactly what you’d expect it to be—a lightweight oil made from the seeds of grapes. Do you see how it got its name now?!

Grapeseed oil is a byproduct of the winemaking process. Similar to wine, it’s full of antioxidants. As such, this oil has antioxidant, anti-microbial, and anti-inflammatory properties. And as if that weren’t enough, it’s also high in omega fatty acids and vitamin E.

We have grapeseed oil’s unique molecular structure to thank for these powerful properties. It contains polyphenol compounds, like proanthocyanidins, that make the oil so special. 

You could describe the texture of grapeseed oil as lightweight, thin, and silky. These luxurious characteristics make grapeseed oil excellent for skincare—it’s easily absorbable, and it feels smooth and opulent when you apply it directly to your face. 

Grapeseed oil is also ideal for cooking, albeit for very different reasons. So, read on as we delve into the differences between using this oil in cooking versus skincare.

Grapeseed Oil in Cooking: Everything You Should Know 

Most of us have classic staples like olive oil and vegetable oil on hand at all times. These oils play a key part in so many dishes, and we wouldn’t want to live in a world without them. However, sometimes you want to change things up. Grapeseed oil is an excellent option for all those times you’re looking to try something new in the kitchen.

What makes grapeseed oil so great? Well, first of all, it presents a very clean, uncomplicated flavor. Unlike certain cooking oils, grapeseed really allows the flavor of whatever food you’re preparing to shine through. For this reason, many culinary experts like to use grapeseed oil in vinaigrettes that feature herbs or specialty oils.

Another draw of grapeseed oil is its high smoke point. This means that it can get pretty hot—up to 425 degrees—without burning. As such, grapeseed oil is perfect for making extra crispy food. 

In terms of health value, grapeseed oil is generally considered one of the healthier oils. It’s comparable to olive oil with regards to calories and fat. As long as you consume it in moderation, grapeseed oil is excellent .

In general, grapeseed oil is suitable for a wide range of kitchen activities, like sauteing, stir-frying, baking, and more. It’s an ideal olive oil substitute, and it tastes great in sauces, vinaigrettes, soups, and dressings. If you’re in the market for a new oil to add to the rotation, we’d highly recommend grapeseed!

Grapeseed Oil in Skincare 

If you think grapeseed oil is versatile in the kitchen, just wait until you hear how much it brings to the table for skincare. Honestly, we don’t even know where to begin. 

So, take a look at our list of the biggest benefits of grapeseed oil:

Grapeseed oil may help treat acne. As we may have already mentioned, grapeseed oil has anti-microbial properties. This means that it may have the ability to fight the bacteria that gets in our pores and causes those annoying breakouts.

Likewise, as a non-comedogenic ingredient, grapeseed oil is safe to use on all skin types. It won’t clog your pores, even if your skin is prone to pimples.

This oil is ideal for moisturizing because it’s full of vitamin E and fatty acids. Applying grapeseed oil to the skin may improve moisture levels and softness, all while giving your face a youthful glow.

Since it’s full of antioxidants, grapeseed oil is perfect for improving the complexion. It contains a particular antioxidant called proanthocyanidin that’s known to even out the skin and help cultivate a flawless complexion.

Grapeseed oil may help fade dark spots. Again, because this oil contains many  nutrients, vitamins, and antioxidants, it makes an excellent healer. When applied regularly, it may gradually heal the skin and eliminate those pesky spots.

Finally, grapeseed oil adds a layer of protection against the damaging UV rays of the sun. Although it doesn’t serve as an SPF substitute, it may help the skin absorb the full impact of the sun’s rays, ultimately reducing sun damage.

Clearly, grapeseed oil is not messing around. That’s why so many skincare brands have begun using this powerful oil in their products. Read on for a rundown on how to use this oil in your everyday routine.

Using Grapeseed Oil on Your Skin

So, you’re thinking it’s about time to try grapeseed oil, right? Well, there are two main methods of using grapeseed oil on the skin: applying it directly or mixing it into your moisturizer.

When you apply pure grapeseed oil to your face, all you need to do is add a few drops to your palm and pat it onto your skin. This step should come at the end of your skincare routine. Of course, if you mix it into moisturizer, just add a few drops and apply your moisturizer as usual. Voila!

On the other hand, if you prefer a pre-made product that will bring you all of these wonderful benefits, why not try a face mask like our Vitamin C Clay Mask? Our mask uses grapeseed oil as one of its central ingredients, along with tons of other powerful, nutrient-packed superfoods. Ingredients like turmeric, desert lime, Kakadu plum, and more will help leave your skin feeling refreshed and flawless.

 

In Conclusion 

Whether you love to cook or love a good self-care moment, grapeseed oil is here to help. This multifaceted, versatile oil brings so much to the table, and it’s completely safe and affordable. Why not try it out today?

Sources:

Grapeseed Oil for Skin: The Complete Guide | Byrdie

Is Grapeseed Oil Healthy? All About This Versatile Cooking Oil | Martha Stewart

Grapeseed Oil for Skin: Benefits, Uses, and Risks | Healthline