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Organic Unrefined Jojoba Oil
Quick Reference
INCI Name: Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil
Common Names: Jojoba oil, golden jojoba oil, jojoba wax
Category: Liquid wax ester, emollient, carrier oil
Source: Natural - cold-pressed from the seeds of the jojoba shrub (Simmondsia chinensis) Origin: Organic certified, product of Israel or North America
Nubeean Products: Available as a standalone oil (50ml, 100ml, 200ml) and as an ingredient in multiple formulations
Skin Types: All skin types, including oily and acne-prone
Cautions: Very rare sensitivity. Patch test if you have known plant allergies.
What It Is
Jojoba "oil" isn't actually an oil at all - it's a liquid wax ester. This distinction matters because it fundamentally changes how the ingredient behaves on skin. True oils are triglycerides (fatty acids attached to a glycerol backbone), but jojoba is composed of long-chain fatty acids and fatty alcohols joined by ester bonds. This structure is remarkably similar to human sebum - the waxy substance your skin produces naturally to maintain moisture and protection.
The jojoba shrub is native to the Sonoran Desert spanning southern California, Arizona and northwestern Mexico. It evolved to survive extreme conditions, and the wax it produces serves as a protective coating for the seeds. Native American peoples have used jojoba for centuries to treat wounds and condition skin and hair.
We use organic, unrefined jojoba oil - sometimes called "golden jojoba" because of its natural yellow colour. Unrefined jojoba retains its full complement of vitamins (A, D, E and B complex), antioxidants and beneficial compounds that are stripped out during the refining process. The trade-off is a faint nutty aroma, but for skincare purposes, the additional nutrients are worth it.
How It Works
Sebum mimicry. Jojoba's wax ester structure closely matches human sebum, which comprises about 25% wax esters. This molecular similarity means skin "recognises" jojoba and accepts it readily - it absorbs without leaving a greasy residue and integrates into the skin's natural lipid barrier rather than sitting on top.
Barrier support. The stratum corneum (skin's outer layer) relies on a lipid matrix to maintain its barrier function. Jojoba contributes to this matrix, helping prevent transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and keeping skin hydrated. Because it's a wax rather than an oil, it provides lasting occlusion without the heaviness of true occlusive agents.
Sebum regulation. Here's something counterintuitive: applying jojoba can help regulate your skin's own oil production. The theory is that because jojoba is so similar to sebum, skin cells detect adequate "sebum" levels and reduce their own production. People with oily skin often find jojoba helps balance their complexion rather than making it greasier.
Oxidative stability. Unlike most plant oils that go rancid within months, jojoba is extraordinarily stable. Its wax ester structure resists oxidation, giving it a shelf life of years rather than months. This stability also means jojoba helps preserve other oils and actives it's combined with, making it valuable in formulations.
Carrier function. Jojoba's skin-compatible structure makes it an excellent carrier for other actives. Fat-soluble vitamins, antioxidants and lipophilic compounds dissolve well in jojoba and are delivered effectively into skin.
Benefits
Primary Benefits
Jojoba provides deep, lasting hydration that doesn't feel heavy or greasy. Because it integrates into the skin's lipid barrier rather than just coating the surface, it helps maintain moisture from within. The sebum-mimicking structure means it's absorbed readily and works with your skin's natural processes rather than against them.
Secondary Benefits
The exceptional oxidative stability of jojoba makes it shelf-stable for years and helps preserve other ingredients in formulations. Its non-comedogenic nature means it won't clog pores, making it suitable even for acne-prone skin. Unrefined jojoba also delivers antioxidants including vitamin E compounds that provide additional protection against environmental damage.
Skin Concerns Addressed
Jojoba helps with dry skin by restoring barrier function and preventing moisture loss. It can assist oily skin by helping regulate sebum production. The anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties (though mild) make it supportive for acne-prone skin. It's also excellent for sensitive skin as it rarely causes reactions and actually helps soothe irritation.
Formulation Matters
Refined vs Unrefined
We use unrefined (golden) jojoba oil because it retains the natural compounds that make jojoba valuable beyond simple moisturisation.
Unrefined jojoba has a golden yellow colour and faint nutty aroma. It contains the full spectrum of vitamins, antioxidants and beneficial compounds present in the raw seed oil. The colour can vary slightly between batches because nature doesn't produce identical results every time.
Refined jojoba is colourless and odourless. The refining process removes the colour, scent and some of the beneficial compounds to create a more standardised product. It's preferred when a formulator needs a neutral base that won't affect the final product's colour or smell.
For skincare, we believe unrefined is superior. The natural nutrients are worth the slight colour and scent.
Organic Certification
Our jojoba is certified organic, meaning it's grown without synthetic pesticides, herbicides or fertilisers. The plants are cultivated using methods that maintain soil health and biodiversity. For an ingredient you're applying directly to your skin and absorbing, organic sourcing matters.
Who Benefits Most
Dry skin. Jojoba's barrier-supporting properties make it excellent for skin that struggles to retain moisture. It doesn't just sit on top providing temporary relief - it integrates into the lipid matrix and helps restore barrier function.
Oily and combination skin. This seems counterintuitive, but jojoba can help regulate excess oil production. The sebum-mimicking structure signals to skin that adequate "sebum" is present, potentially reducing overproduction. Many people with oily skin find jojoba balances their complexion without causing breakouts.
Acne-prone skin. Jojoba is non-comedogenic (won't clog pores) and has mild antibacterial properties. It can help dissolve sebum plugs when used as a cleansing oil and provides moisture without the heaviness that can trigger breakouts.
Sensitive skin. Jojoba is one of the most well-tolerated plant oils available. Its similarity to human sebum means it rarely triggers reactions, and it can actually help soothe inflammation and irritation.
Mature skin. The antioxidant content of unrefined jojoba (particularly vitamin E) provides protection against oxidative damage that contributes to aging. The deep moisturisation supports skin suppleness and elasticity.
Anyone wanting a multi-purpose oil. Jojoba works on face, body, hair, lips and cuticles. It's genuinely versatile and can simplify your routine.
How We Use It
Standalone Product
Organic Jojoba Oil Available in: 50ml, 100ml, 200ml refill Key characteristics: Cold-pressed, unrefined, organic certified Use: Face moisturiser, body oil, hair treatment, massage oil, makeup remover, carrier for essential oils
Products Containing Organic Jojoba Oil
Moisturising Body Oil Key Ingredients: Olive squalane, organic jojoba oil, organic fractionated coconut oil, mixed tocopherols (4%) Use: Lightweight body moisturiser
Moisturising Balm for Extra Dry Skin Key Ingredients: Organic jojoba oil, olive squalane, beeswax, mixed tocopherols (8%) Use: Rich balm for very dry skin, hands, feet, elbows
Centella Serum Ingredients: Noosa Hinterland Centella/Gotu kola (Centella asiatica) infused in organic Jojoba Oil
Blue Tansy Balm Key Ingredients: Olive squalane, blueberry seed oil, organic jojoba oil, jojoba esters, beeswax, THD-C (5%), mixed tocopherols, blue tansy essential oil Use: Nourishing facial balm with vitamin C
Jojoba Sensitive Skin Barrier Balm Ingredients: Organic Jojoba Oil, Beeswax, Mixed Tocopherols (natural vitamin D), Vitamin D
SPF15+ | Daily Moisturising Sunscreen Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide (jojoba ester coated), olive squalane, organic jojoba oil, beeswax, jojoba esters, silica, vitamin E Use: Daily mineral sunscreen with moisturising benefits
Using Jojoba Oil
As a standalone moisturiser: Apply 3-5 drops to clean, slightly damp skin. Jojoba absorbs well and won't leave a greasy finish.
As a cleansing oil: Massage into dry skin to dissolve makeup, sunscreen and sebum. Add water to emulsify, then rinse or wipe clean.
As a carrier oil: Dilute essential oils in jojoba before applying to skin. It's one of the most shelf-stable carriers available.
For hair: Apply a few drops to ends of damp or dry hair to add shine and reduce frizz. For scalp treatments, massage into scalp before washing.
For lips: Apply directly or mix with beeswax for a simple lip balm.
A Note on Scent
Unrefined jojoba has a faint, natural nutty aroma. This isn't added fragrance - it's the natural scent of the cold-pressed oil. Most people find it pleasant and subtle, and it doesn't linger on skin.
If you prefer completely scentless products, refined jojoba would be an alternative, though we don't currently offer it as we prioritise the nutrient retention of unrefined.
Usage Guidelines
Daily Use
Jojoba is gentle enough for twice-daily use on face and body. In the morning, apply after water-based serums and before sunscreen. In the evening, use as a final moisturising step or as a cleansing oil.
Application Amount
A little goes a long way. Start with 3-5 drops for face, more for body. You can always add more if needed.
Layering
Jojoba can be applied over water-based serums and under sunscreen. It plays well with virtually all other skincare ingredients.
Storage
Store in a cool, dark place. Jojoba is exceptionally stable and doesn't require refrigeration. Shelf life is 2-3 years from production date.
Contraindications and Cautions
Very rare sensitivity. Jojoba is one of the best-tolerated plant oils, but rare allergies do exist. Patch test if you have known sensitivities to plant-derived ingredients.
Not for internal use. Jojoba contains erucic acid and should not be ingested. Keep away from children and pets.
May vary in colour. Unrefined jojoba can range from pale gold to deeper yellow depending on the batch. This is natural variation and doesn't indicate quality issues.
Research and Evidence
Jojoba's similarity to human sebum has been confirmed by compositional analysis — both are primarily composed of wax esters. Studies demonstrate that jojoba can enhance skin barrier function and reduce transepidermal water loss.
The anti-inflammatory properties of jojoba have been documented, supporting its use for sensitive and irritated skin. Antimicrobial activity, while mild, has been observed against certain bacteria and fungi.
Long-term stability studies confirm that jojoba resists oxidation far better than most plant oils, maintaining its beneficial properties for years when stored properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will jojoba oil clog my pores? No. Jojoba is non-comedogenic and its wax ester structure is similar to your skin's natural sebum, so it integrates rather than blocking pores. Many people with oily and acne-prone skin find jojoba works well for them.
What's the difference between refined and unrefined jojoba? Unrefined (golden) jojoba retains its natural colour, scent and full nutrient content including vitamins and antioxidants. Refined jojoba is colourless and odourless but loses some beneficial compounds. We use unrefined for maximum skincare benefit.
Can I use jojoba if I have oily skin? Yes, and you might be surprised by the results. Jojoba can help regulate oil production because it so closely resembles your skin's natural sebum. Many people find it actually balances oily skin rather than making it greasier.
Is jojoba oil actually an oil? Technically no — it's a liquid wax ester. This distinction matters because wax esters behave differently from true oils (triglycerides). Jojoba is more stable, more skin-compatible and more similar to human sebum than true plant oils.
How long does jojoba last? Jojoba has exceptional shelf stability — 2-3 years when stored properly in a cool, dark place. Its wax ester structure resists the oxidation that causes most oils to go rancid.
Can I use jojoba on my hair? Absolutely. Jojoba is excellent for adding shine, reducing frizz and conditioning hair and scalp. Apply a few drops to damp or dry hair, focusing on ends, or massage into scalp before washing.
Related Reading
→ LINK TO: Understanding Carrier Oils: Which One Is Right for You?
→ LINK TO: Oil Cleansing for Clear Skin
Olive Squalane Ingredient Guide
Shop Jojoba Products
Australian made | Small batch | Clean formulation | Fragrance-free