Jojoba Carrier Oils

Jojoba is not an oil, it is a liquid waxy ester molecularly comparable to the esters we produce in our skin. The sebaceous glands in our skin produce sebum, which is composed primarily of esters like Jojoba. Since it does not contain triglycerides (which are a type of fat that break down in vegetable oils and turn rancid) it is extremely stable and will last for years with an indefinite shelf life. It is non-allergenic and non- comedogenic (non pore-clogging).

Jojoba will not stain and washes easily out of natural fabrics with just hot water and detergent. Contrary to the belief that Jojoba is too expensive to use as a massage oil, those who use it in their practice find it very affordable due to the small amount needed. A therapist giving 30-35 massages a week customarily uses three to four gallons per year. Hot stone modalities will use more. Note that unlike vegetable oils, Jojoba can withstand heating and reheat, making it ideal for hot stone therapy.

Jojoba softens and conditions skin and is used to relieve the symptoms of psoriasis. It is excellent used as a body moisturizer on slightly damp skin after showering. Jojoba is also beneficial for facial massage, removing makeup, and as an ingredient in facial masks to improve the flow of nutrients into the skin. As it only has an SPF of 2-4 it is not recommended as a sunscreen alternative, but it can be applied to the skin before applying sunscreen to maintain skin health while in the sun.

Jojoba contains a natural anti-inflammatory called myristic acid which is useful in formulations for arthritis and rheumatism. This makes it wonderful to use after sugaring or waxing to soothe and condition the skin. It can also be used to conditions the scalp and hair and relieve cradle cap.