By now, most of us are familiar with the concept of “drinking to your health” thanks to the antioxidant benefits attributed to an occasional glass of wine. However, if you’ve been looking for a way to enjoy similar effects for your skin, the answer might be as simple as one of our favorite botanical oils derived directly from the source.

Grapeseed oil is a popular additive in many of today's skin and beauty products, and with good reason. Here’s what you need to know:

Where does grapeseed oil come from?

As sustainable ingredients go, grapeseed is a great one because it’s actually a byproduct of winemaking. Rather than ending up as waste, seeds discarded during the process are repurposed and their precious oils can be extracted for use as a cosmetic ingredient. The most popular method of extraction is cold-press, which works to preserve the oil’s active potential and potency.

What benefits does grapeseed oil have for the skin?

In general, we love botanical oils because they’re nutrient-rich, and plenty effective for supporting the skin. If you’re someone who prefers to avoid synthetically-derived actives, or doesn’t tolerate them well for any reason, a plant-based oil like grapeseed provides the perfect alternative. Or you can also use it to compliment other skincare staples like Vitamin C.

In particular, grapeseed oil is known for being naturally anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antibacterial. It’s also high in antioxidants, aminos, and omega fatty acids, including linoleic acid. All put together, these components make it a powerful skin ally, protecting your skin against moisture loss, barrier imbalance, free radical stress, UV damage, and more.

Which skin concerns and conditions is grapeseed oil best for?

Given all we know about the prowess of grapeseed oil, we’d be hard-pressed to pick just one skin type that aligns with it as an ingredient. It’s an amazing option for acne prone skin, due to the fact that it helps prevent buildup of bacteria and supports balanced oil production. However, it’s also equally beneficial for infusing dry, depleted, or aging skin with much needed moisture. Additionally, its ability to calm inflammation is something just about all of us can utilize to reduce redness, while maintaining a calm and collected, glowing complexion.

What’s the best way to incorporate grapeseed oil in your beauty routine?

Not unlike your favorite – in moderation, of course – pinot noir, grapeseed oil can be a healthy addition to any daily routine. In fact, a best practice for incorporating antioxidants in your skincare is to use them consistently in the morning for protection against free radicals in the environment, as well as in the evening for supporting overnight repair.

Because it blends well with other ingredients and products, you’ll find grapeseed oil in some of Eossi’s favorite formulas including our Facial Glow Oil and Athena Brightening Body Oil. It’s non-greasy, lightweight texture layers well under moisturizer or makeup, and works best when applied to freshly cleansed skin for maximum absorption.

References:

Grape Seed Oil Compounds: Biological and Chemical Actions for Health By Juliano Garavaglia, Melissa M. Markoski, Aline Oliveira, Aline Marcadenti

https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.4137/NMI.S32910

Grapeseed Oil for Skin: Benefits and Uses By Kathryn Watson, Medically reviewed by Cynthia Cobb, DNP, APRN, WHNP-BC, FAANP

https://www.healthline.com/health/grapeseed-oil-for-skin