Jojoba oil – effects, benefits & use in skincare

What is jojoba oil?

Jojoba oil is a liquid wax extracted from the seeds of Simmondsia chinensis . It consists predominantly of long-chain wax esters and is therefore exceptionally oxidation-stable – one reason why it is valued in dermocosmetics as a robust conditioning lipid. ^¹

Why is jojoba oil skin-friendly?

The wax ester-based composition is functionally similar to the skin's sebum film. As a result, jojoba oil supports the hydrolipid barrier, reduces transepidermal water loss, and leaves a silky-dry finish instead of a heavy oily ^film .

Effects in skincare

• Barrier care: supports the lipid film, reduces feelings of tightness and roughness. ³
• Formulation stability: suitable as a lipid phase in emulsions, exhibits good stability and co-emulsifier properties. ²
• Broad skin type spectrum: used in pharmacy practice as a conditioning lipid for sensitive, dry, and oily skin. ^{4 , 5}

Application & Skin Types

• Dry/sensitive skin: Apply 2–3 drops to slightly damp skin or use as the lipid phase in a rich cream (water-in-oil emulsion). ⁴
• Combination/oily skin: use sparingly as a finishing touch over a serum ; the dry finish is less occlusive.
• Mature skin: usable as a carrier lipid in antioxidant formulations (e.g., vitamin E). ⁶

In modern formulations

Jojoba oil is an ingredient in high-quality oils and emulsions. In the NATURFACTOR product range, it fits into nourishing yet light textures – for example, as a lipid component in Blue Crystal Drops or as a complement to the Porcelain Skin Serum for increased suppleness.

Safety & Compatibility

In pharmaceutical/dermopharmaceutical practice, jojoba oil is widely used due to its stability and good skin tolerance; it is considered an excellent skin care lipid – even in sensitive indications. ^{3 , 5}

Conclusion

As a liquid wax with high oxidative stability, jojoba oil combines sensory elegance with functional barrier support. It is versatile – from light serum finishes to rich emulsions – and suitable for a wide range of skin types.

Sources

1. Wikipedia (DE): Jojoba – section “Jojoba oil”. https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jojoba
2. German Pharmacists' Journal: Except for castor oil and jojoba oil – special features of jojoba wax esters. https://www.deutsche-apotheker-zeitung.de/.../außer-jojobaoel
3. Pharmaceutical Journal: Dermopharmacy – the right formulation for diseased skin (use of jojoba oil in emulsions). https://www.pharmazeutische-zeitung.de/.../die-richtige-galenik-fuer-kranke-haut/
4. Pharmaceutical Journal: Diabetes is also a matter of skin – W/O emulsions with jojoba oil for dry skin. https://www.pharmazeutische-zeitung.de/diabetes-ist-auch-hautsache-117733/seite/2/
5. German Pharmacists' Journal (various articles, 2024): Jojoba oil as a skincare lipid in pharmacy products (examples/recommendations). https://www.deutsche-apotheker-zeitung.de/.../hautpflege-ist-ein-wichtiger-teil
6. German Pharmacists' Journal (Archive): Sensory/Formulation Examples with Jojoba Oil in Water-in-O Systems. https://www.deutsche-apotheker-zeitung.de/.../fortschritt-fuer-die-haut