An increasing number of personal skincare products are incorporating grapeseed oil, which is a byproduct of winemaking, is becoming more popular topical in skincare products. Because of the benefits offered by grapeseed, the lightweight oil is becoming more popular as an ingredient in skincare products. Antioxidants like vitamin E, omega fatty acids, and amino acids all pack a punch when it comes to skincare, which addresses a variety of skincare concerns.

What is Grapeseed Oil?

During the winemaking process, the grapes are pressed leaving behind seeds from which the grapeseed oil is extracted. Wine manufacturers previously had tons of wasted byproducts but due to technological advances, the oil can now be taken from the seeds.  The seeds are first crushed and cold-pressed or expeller-pressed with a solvent. The cold-compressed extraction method is best because it allows the oil to remain as nutrient-rich and effective as possible.

What is Grapeseed Oil Comprised Of?

Grapeseed oil, also known as vitis vinifera oil, has a few components that make for healthy skin. The seeds have lipids, protein, carbohydrates, and between 5 percent to 8 percent of polyphenols.  The polyphenols are flavonoids like gallic acids and phenols. Studies have indicated that the antioxidant power of proanthocyanidins, the phenol found in the oil is 20 times great than vitamin E and 50 times greater than vitamin C. The studies also suggest that it bonds with collagen to increase cell elasticity and flexibility.

Grapeseed oil is high in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) omega-6 fatty acids. There are heart health benefits like lower cholesterol and a lower risk of heart disease but can also be beneficial in a beauty routine. Fatty acids improve skin hydration by decreasing transepidermal water loss.

It also contains vitamin E, even more than the amount found in olive oil. Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that helps protect cells from damaging free radicals that come from the environment. It maintains a protective barrier for the skin so it holds onto moisture.

The Benefits of Grapeseed Oil for Healthy Skin

Some beauty brands have capitalized on the use of this oil in their skincare and hair care products. Because grapeseed oil is rich in vitamin E, they reduce free radicals like UV radiation and pollution, which can increase the signs of aging and cause dry skin. The benefits apply when it is applied directly to the skin.

Omega-6 fatty acids are important to both skin function and appearance. The main omega-6 in grapeseed oil is linoleic acid, which can reduce inflammation in the skin’s middle and outer layers. Linoleic acid is also found in coconut oil, but the difference is grapeseed oil is non-comedogenic so it does not clog pores. It integrates into the cell membranes to fortify the skin barrier and soften the skin.

Products that contain grapeseed oil can also:

• Heal Acne. Acne is a problematic skin condition that affects many people. The anti-microbial properties in the oil penetrate and clean the skin. It is a mild astringent that purifies the skin. The linoleic acid in grapeseed oil is anti-inflammatory, which reduces the redness that comes with acne breakouts.
• Hydrates Skin. As skin ages, it retains less moisture. The fatty acids found in grapeseed oil moisturize the skin, which can soften the skin and give it a more youthful appearance.
• Even Skin Tone. Proanthocyanidin, the antioxidant that is contained in the oil, may even out skin tone when used consistently.
• Tighten Pores. Applied topically, this oil can help diminish the appearance of pores.
• Reduces Hyperpigmentation. Hyperpigmentation due to sun damage can be reduced with this oil. The powerful antioxidants in the oil may also prevent the skin from fully absorbing the harmful UV rays from the sun.
• Reduce the Appearance of Scars. The antioxidants, vitamins, and fatty acids work together to fade dark spots and scars.
• Remove Makeup. This oil can even be used as a makeup user.

Another benefit of grapeseed oil for the user is that it is easy to use as it absorbs quickly and does not leave the skin oily. This multitude of benefits are part of the reason that products that contain the oil are sought after by consumers.

How to Use Grapeseed Oil?

Grapeseed oil can be used as a standalone ingredient or incorporated into a skincare product. This oil can be massaged into the skin before bedtime, and it can be used again in the morning as well, depending on the user’s preference. Grapeseed oil should be applied to clean, dry skin. As with other oils, it works best when applied as the last step to a skincare routine to seal in other products and moisture underneath it.

Who Can Use Grapeseed Oil?

Since it is non-comedogenic, it can be used on all skin types including oily and sensitive skin. It should not be used with any harsh or drying products such as retinol or salicylic acid, which can work against the oil’s emollient properties. According to dermatologist Michele Green, MD, all skin types can use an oil, but not all oils are beneficial for every skin.  Grapeseed oil, however, is a lightweight oil that can be used for acne-prone or oily skin. Unlike other oils that only suit certain skin types, this oil can be used on most skin types. There are no known side effects of using grapeseed oil topically in a skincare routine but a patch test on an area other than the face might be advisable for those with sensitive skin.

Grapeseed oil is a multifaceted beauty ingredient that can benefit the skin in many ways. Personal product manufacturers that are not already using it may want to consider adding it to their brand. If you are looking to incorporate grapeseed oil into one of your products, Evora can assist every step of the way.