Baobab Oil Is The Dry Skin Savior That You Never Knew You Needed

Benefits of baobab oil for skin

Baobab oil is packed with antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, (including linoleic acid, oleic acid, and palmitic acid) and can assist in everything from hydration to aging. Here are some of the top benefits of baobab oil:

It’s majorly moisturizing:

Baobab oil is packed with moisture, making it a must-have for dry skin and hair. It works to restore hydration and also strengthens the skin barrier to ensure the moisture levels aren’t depleted by external aggressors. “Essential fatty acids, like Omega 6 and 9, assist in the skin barrier,” says Caceres. It can also provide soothing relief for a host of skin conditions, including eczema, dryness, and psoriasis. “It contains high levels of vitamins A, E and F, in addition, it contains essential fatty acids like Omega 6 and 9, Beta Carotene, vitamin C and linoleic acid,” says Caceres. These work together to minimize redness and inflammation in the skin (but more on that later).

It corrects hyperpigmentation:

If you suffer from dark spots or melasma or simply want to brighten a dull complexion, then this is the oil for you. “Because of its high levels of vitamin C it helps to control melanin production,” says Caceres. By doing so, it can help fade hyperpigmentation while also brightening the skin.

It’s an anti-aging multitasker:

Not only can baobab oil restore a youthful glow, but it can also boost collagen and elastin which naturally deplete as we age. “Baobab oil has high levels of vitamin C and fatty acids,” Caceres explains. “Vitamin C boosts collagen and elastin production while fatty acids help to repair skin barriers for a healthier, beautiful skin.” It’s also rich in antioxidants, which prevent free radical damage responsible for fine lines and wrinkles.

Soothes redness and inflammation:

Those with sensitive skin or dry skin who are looking for relief will be thrilled to discover the anti-inflammatory properties associated with this skincare savior. “It contains vitamin F,” says Caceres, which is known for its anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties, and also contains linoleic acid. “Linoleic acid helps with inflammation and redness on the skin,” says Caceres.

It provides nourishment to hair:

While we’re focusing on the bevy of skincare benefits associated with baobab oil, we would be doing the nourishing oil a disservice by not honing in on the benefits it can provide to your hair and scalp. Since baobab oil is rich in vitamin E and has a high fatty acid content it can also help dry scalps and damaged hair by smoothing over frizz and providing much-needed moisture. It also can help soothe itchiness caused by dandruff. In order to reap the benefits, you can mix a few drops in with your conditioner from root to tip to provide much-needed hydration.

Does baobab oil clog pores?

While baobab oil is an incredible hydrator, it also can soothe acne-prone skin, as it’s non-comedogenic, meaning “it doesn't clog the pores,” says Caceres. Since it’s lightweight you also won’t have to worry about it contributing to breakouts. “Its natural hydrating nature prevents excess oil production that leads to acne,” says Caceres. Not only is it safe for soothing acne-prone skin, but new research shows that it might actually stop acne flare-ups in their tracks. “There are clinical trials showing that the baobab oil may prevent acne,” says Caceres. It can provide soothing relief without clogging pores, making it a nourishing treatment for acne-prone skin.

How to use baobab oil

The beauty of baobab oil is that it’s gentle enough to use on a daily basis. “Baobab oil can be used alone, or in conjunction with your facial moisturizer or masque, daily or night,” says Caceres. Since it contains high antioxidant levels, using it during the day will provide extra environmental protection against free radical damage, (which are responsible for premature signs of aging). While baobab oil is suitable for normal, dry, and sensitive skin, it’s always best to consult your dermatologist before incorporating a new skincare product into your routine. Doing a patch test can also ensure your skin won’t react.

Skincare products with baobab we love

The easiest way to incorporate baobab oil in your skincare routine is to reach for a product that already contains the moisturizing multitasker—and we’ve rounded up our favorite beauty products below to get you started.

DRUNK ELEPHANT Slaai™ Makeup-Melting Butter Cleanser

The star ingredient in this multitasking cleanser is baobab seed oil, which softens skin while dissolving makeup. It’s gentle enough to use around the eye area but tough enough to remove makeup, dirt, and sunscreen. It’s also ideal for anyone with dry skin who’s hoping to remove makeup without stripping their complexion. Simply add water to watch the oil transform to a milk as you lather and wash away the day.

FENTY SKIN Instant Reset Overnight Recovery Gel-Cream

Treat your complexion to a spa-like experience when you sleep after you apply this moisturizing night cream that’s like an instant refresher for tired skin. We all have those days when our skin can use a little TLC, and this lotion is the perfect addition to your evening routine. It serves up hyaluronic acid, Baobab oil, and Kalahari melon oil to plump your complexion and deliver an 8-hour surge of hydration. In just one week, pores look smaller, dark spots fade, and lines and wrinkles are less noticeable.

AKAR SKIN Soothe Face Oil

Baobab oil deeply penetrates the skin’s surface and works with your skin’s natural lipids to hydrate from the outside in. If you have normal, dry, or sensitive skin, reach for this quick-absorbing, lightweight formula that’s packed with oleic acid, an Omega-9 fatty acid, for healthier, younger-looking skin.

SHEAMOISTURE 100% Pure Baobab Oil Head To Toe Nourishment

This multitasking oil lives up to its name and delivers nourishing, head-to-toe hydration for hair and skin. Omegas 3, 6, and 9 go to work in this potent formula to provide much-needed hydration while also strengthening skin elasticity. The result? A plumper, glowing complexion and stronger strands. What more could you ask for?

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