Jojoba oil is a liquid emollient that comes from the seeds of the jojoba plant. These plants are shrubs that are native the the southwestern United States and northern parts of Mexico. The key benefits of jojoba oil have to do with its ability to moisturize and soothe the skin.
This oil is actually a liquid wax, therefore it is a very potent moisturizer and even a small amount can treat a large area of skin. Jojoba oil can be used on its own, but it is also often used in moisturizers, face masks, body creams, soaps, shampoos, and shower gels. One of the best things about jojoba oil is that it can be used in products that clean and moisturize the skin at the same time.
One of the benefits of jojoba oil is that can be used to treat a dry scalp just as it can be used to treat dry skin. Some shampoos and conditioners that target scalp dryness include jojoba oil. Jojoba oil can be rubbed through the scalp after the hair has been washed. If this leaves the hair too oily, however, the scalp can be treated with jojoba oil prior to shampooing.
Many drugstores and health food stores carry jojoba oil in their beauty products aisle. In general, a small bottle of the oil can be purchased for around ten dollars. Some diet and nutrition stores even carry generic brands that are particularly affordable.
Because one of the key benefits of jojoba oil is the fact that it can moisturize and cleanse the skin at the same time, it is great for use in the bath. Simply draw a hot bath and add just a few spoonfuls of jojoba oil. The oil can be added to regular bubble bath or used alone. For a special treat, try adding a few drops of essential oil as well.
Humans are not the only mammals that can enjoy the benefits of jojoba oil. In fact, jojoba oil can be used to treat dry and cracked skin on domestic pets. It is especially soothing to dry and cracked pads on dogs’ feet. It can also be used as a coat conditioner. Jojoba oil is most commonly used for dogs and cats, but it can also be used on a variety of exotic pets such as chinchillas, who sometimes suffer from dry skin on their ears and the pads of their feet.