Anyone with oily or acne-prone skin has probably spent most of their days avoiding any oil-based product like the plague. For a long time, using any form of oil on our skin was frowned upon. However, times are changing—oil is rapidly gaining popularity in the skincare world, and we’re totally on board.

One of the reasons we’re so pumped about the popularization of oil in skincare is because natural oils have so much to offer. They’re full of nutrients, vitamins, acids, and so much more good stuff. Certain oils are practically built to serve our skincare goals. We’re sure you already know about olive oil, sunflower oil, and vegetable oil, but you might not choose to slather those on your skin. They seem more at home when making herb-filled salad dressing or baking a summery olive oil cake. 

Of all these amazing oils, our favorite has to be grapeseed oil. 

You shouldn’t be shocked to learn that grapeseed oil comes from the seeds of grapes (Vitis vinifera L.). It’s actually a by-product of the winemaking process. Grapes are really giving two for the price of one.

Grapeseed oil is truly amazing. It’s one of the most powerful skincare oils out there. In this article, we take a deep dive into the world of grapeseed oil. By the time you finish reading, there’s no doubt you’ll be a grapeseed superfan.

The Basics of Grapeseed Oil 

As we’ve already noted, grapeseed oil is just one of the many wonderful products that come from the winemaking process. And, just like wine, this oil contains an abundance of antioxidants. It’s generally considered good for high-heat cooking, thanks to its high smoke point and neutral flavor. 

Beyond just that, grapeseed oil has both anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s high in omega-6 fatty acids (linoleic acid) and monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, as well as vitamin E. It’s rich in phenolic compounds, oleic acid, polyphenols, and many vitamins as well. If you’re eating grapeseed oil, it’s known for potentially reducing your cholesterol and risk of heart disease, thanks to its specific fatty acid composition. 

This lightweight, silky oil is perfect for a facial massage. Being so thin, grapeseed oil is incredibly absorbable. Applying it directly to your face is a luxurious sensation.

We could go on and on about the benefits of grapeseed oil—and we will. So, read on as we explore all the ways that grapeseed oil can benefit your skin.

Grapeseed Oil Fights Free Radicals 

As we’ve already noted above, grapeseed oil has lots of beneficial properties. One of those properties is its high levels of vitamin E.

Vitamin E is ideal for fighting free radicals, unstable molecules that may damage skin cells. Free radicals can to cause some serious damage, so any ingredient that lessens their impact is welcome in our book.

Both consuming grapeseed oil and applying it directly to your skin should allow you to reap this benefit. 

Grapeseed Oil Is Anti-Inflammatory 

Yes, the rumors are true—grapeseed oil may have the ability to reduce inflammation and redness. This is due to its high content of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. 

These fatty acids play an important role in skin barrier functioning. They also contain linolenic acid, which is known to reduce inflammation in the skin’s middle and outer layers.

As an anti-inflammatory, grapeseed oil may greatly reduce redness caused by inflammation. Whether you’re recovering from acne breakouts or a flare-up of another skin issue, grapeseed oil would be a great choice.

It’s Ideal for Fighting Acne

When you see a new blemish appear, you likely try to get rid of that pimple as fast as possible. If none of your old tricks are getting the job done, you may want to turn to grapeseed oil. This is because the oil has anti-microbial properties. 

Anti-microbials are notorious for helping to clear up acne by eliminating the harmful bacteria that cause acne in the first place. As an anti-microbial, it’s fairly safe to assume that grapeseed oil would have this effect. Although more research is still needed to substantiate this claim, the theory looks quite promising.

Moreover, grapeseed oil is well known to be non-comedogenic. In other words, it’s not likely to clog your pores and worsen your acne. So, it’s really perfect for any skin type.

Grapeseed Oil Helps With Hydration and Moisturization

Both hydration and moisturization are essential to skin health. Skin that lacks these two elements will face a whole array of issues. That is why it’s so important to find ingredients that guarantee maximum levels of moisture and hydration.

Well, grapeseed oil is one such ingredient. Again, we have the vitamin E and fatty acids of this oil to thank for this fact. These two components help the skin lock in water molecules and stay hydrated as ever. Moreover, they might even give the face a tighter, more youthful appearance.

It Helps Even Out the Skin

If you struggle with an uneven complexion, we would highly recommend grapeseed oil. In addition to vitamin E and fatty acids, this oil contains another powerful ingredient. It’s called proanthocyanidin. This is an antioxidant that’s known to even out the skin tone when used regularly. 

Interestingly, consuming grapeseed oil may benefit your skin tone, as well. Grapeseed oil extract has actually been shown to improve symptoms of melasma (a type of hyperpigmentation).

Grapeseed Oil Protects Against the Sun 

At this point, we all know that sun damage is incredibly harmful to the skin. It may lead to any number of issues, from sunburns to premature wrinkles to dark sunspots. Even worse, sun exposure can eventually cause serious diseases down the road. That is why protecting our skin from the sun is essential.

By adding grapeseed oil to your daily routine, you can actually take your sun protection skills one step further. Indeed, this oil may have the ability to prevent the skin from absorbing the full extent of the sun’s rays. In other words, it may lessen the impact of sun damage on your skin.

We should note here that grapeseed oil is not a suitable substitute for your regular SPF. However, it may provide an extra boost of protection, and every little bit counts.

How You Can Try Grapeseed Oil Today

So, you’ve decided to try grapeseed oil on your skin. Where should you begin?!

All you need is a bottle of pure grapeseed oil from your local grocery store. If you so desire, you can apply this oil directly to your skin. 

First things first, run through your whole skincare routine. Then, after moisturizing, place a few drops of grapeseed oil in the palm of your hands. Gently pat the oil all over your face, and you’re done.

Another application method involves just one varying step. Instead of applying the oil directly to your face, add a few drops to your normal moisturizer, and apply it as normal. Voila!

Finally, if you’re in the market for a store-bought grapeseed oil product, we just have to plug our Vitamin C Clay Mask. With grapeseed oil as one of its main ingredients, our mask will leave your skin looking smooth, even, and radiant. We can’t recommend it enough.

 

The Verdict on Grapeseed Oil

It’s no secret that we love this stuff. We’re grateful that the oil-based skincare trend took off because that means grapeseed oil is finally getting a moment to shine, both for its nutrition value and its skincare potential. It’s got a neutral taste that rivals canola, avocado, and peanut oil with its versatility. With so many skin benefits to offer, this oil definitely deserves a moment in the limelight.

Sources:

Grapeseed oil: Health and beauty benefits | Medical News Today

Grapeseed Oil for Skin: The Complete Guide | Byrdie

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