It’s hard to believe that so much goodness can come from such a little seed. Grape seeds have been used in home remedies for centuries, and several decades of research has found that they may help us avoid disease and live longer, more healthier lives.
Even more exciting is the recent studies on the effects of grapeseed oil on the skin. Scientists have found that the linoleic acid naturally present in the oil may be beneficial for oily and sensitive skin.
A little bit about the ingredient itself
Grapeseed oil is extracted from the seeds of grapes, usually wine grapes. These seeds are discarded during the winemaking process, and then used to produce the oil, which is light in color and flavor. In cooking, it has a high smoking point, so it can be a good oil for frying. Chefs use it in dressings and sauces, and in flavoring herbs and peppers.
Internal health benefits of grapeseed
Grapeseed extract became a household name when researchers discovered the flavonoids naturally present, and found that these flavonoids were powerful antioxidants capable of preventing and repairing damage to blood vessels and arteries—critical to cardiovascular health.
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, standardized grape seed extract may be used for a range of health problems related to free radical damage, including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. It’s also been shown to protect against bacterial infections.
Several high quality scientific studies have found that the beneficial compounds in grape seed extract can reduce the symptoms of venous insufficiency and edema. Some studies have also shown promising results in the extract reducing high cholesterol and high blood pressure.
Grapeseed oil’s benefits to the skin
The first and most obvious benefit of grapeseed oil is its moisturizing properties. The light texture penetrates easily into the skin, hydrating without leaving behind a greasy feel. If you have oily skin, don’t worry, as the oil does not clog pores, and has a natural cleansing properties that minimize the look of pores.
This oil also has a great reputation as being perfect for sensitive skin, as it rarely produces any allergic reactions. Even people who may be allergic to other oils commonly used on the skin can typically tolerate grapeseed.
Of course, grapeseed is full of antioxidants, so that makes the oil a perfect addition to anti-aging formulas. Not only can it protect your skin from environmental stressors, but can help tighten and firm.
Grapeseed oil is full of vitamin C and vitamin E, both natural antioxidants, while vitamin C helps brighten and tone skin, reducing the appearance of dark spots. Instead of paying out the nose for pricey vitamin C serums, grapeseed gives you the brightening effects and the antioxidant protection and the moisturization, all in one!
Try it!
I love the light, penetrating action of grapeseed oil, and have included it in four of my products so far to help protect, hydrate and refresh. Try it for yourself and let me know what you think.
- Coconut Body & Face Oil
- Herbal Facial Oil for Normal and Combination Skin
- Herbal Facial Oil for Oily Skin
- Radiant Skin Silk Body Lotion
Do you use grapeseed oil in cooking or in your cosmetics? Please share your experience.
I have been doing my research on grapeseed oil for a long time. It has innumerable benefits. In addition to her hair, there are many benefits for the skin. Your blog has helped me a lot. You continue your work with my best wishes. If I don’t appreciate your excellent work, it will be my abuse of your hard work. No doubt you have done a great job. You deserve appreciation. Al last, thank you a lot. you really doing good job.
I found some in TK MAxx and thought I’d give it a go for cooking and for my skin (with rose petal infusion). With your help I now know how good it is for me and am looking forward to slathering it on. It absorbs well I’ve noticed.