Like evening primrose and jojoba oils, grapeseed oil has been used in skincare for many centuries, dating back over 6000 years. There’s even mention of this in the Bible, where a prophet was said to have eaten a dish containing it - specifically for its health properties.

But while grapeseed oil certainly isn’t the new kid on the block, it may well be a skincare ingredient you aren’t too familiar with. Today we’ll be uncovering the many benefits to using this ingredient, including how it could help your skin, and which products our team recommend.

What Is Grapeseed Oil?

When it comes to names, there are no secrets here. Grapeseed oil is the oil produced from crushing grape seeds, usually the common grape vine (Vitis vinifera) variety used in wine. Often discarded by vineyards, grape seeds are actually thought to be one of the most beneficial parts of the plant.

As a by-product of winemaking, grapeseed oil offers a more sustainable alternative to other natural oils. A multitude of suppliers produce it, not only in Europe but throughout the world.

Did you know? Grapeseed Oil is also known as: Vitis vinifera oil, grape seed extract.

How Does It Work?

One of the characteristics that makes this ingredient so well-loved in the beauty industry is that it has many uses. Who would have thought that the humble seeds from such a common fruit could boast benefits including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties?

Not only that, but the seeds also contain high levels of omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E which are retained in the oil-making process. Omega acids strengthen the skin’s surface layer, while vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant. The combined antioxidants may help protect your skin from UV damage and fight signs of ageing by neutralising free radicals.

Who Can Benefit From Using Grapeseed Oil?

Here is where grapeseed oil truly comes into its own… the vast majority of people who can benefit from using it! Gentle enough to use on sensitive skin, moisturising without the risk of clogging pores, with anti-ageing properties to boot, this beauty hero is a one-stop-shop for skincare.

In fact, the only reason you may want to avoid it is if you have a (relatively rare) allergy. To be on the safe side, always patch test first.

Using Grapeseed Oil For Oily, Combination or Blemish-Prone Skin

Moisturising is key to a good skincare routine, regardless of whether your skin is oily or dry. However, finding ingredients which hydrate without sitting heavily on the skin can be a difficult task. Unlike coconut and many other natural “essentials”, this beauty component is non-comedogenic so won’t clog pores, making it an excellent option for moisturising combination and naturally oily skin.

Not only that, but it cleanses pores and balances sebum production, reducing acne breakouts. With its antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, grapeseed oil can also benefit those who suffer from breakouts, as it attacks the microscopic nasties at the source, reducing flare-ups and contributing to clearer skin.

Using Grapeseed Oil For Dry, Dehydrated or Mature Skin

Research has shown that grapeseed oil improves many of the common issues associated with dry, dehydrated and mature skin, including:

• Moisture retention
• Skin softness
• Elasticity

Grapeseed oil also contains the antioxidant proanthocyanidin, which may even skin tone and reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation when used consistently.

What Products Contain Grapeseed Oil?

With so many benefits to dry, blemish-prone, pigmented and mature skin, it’s no surprise that this grapeseed derivative is a sought after ingredient in facial moisturisers and many other assorted skincare products. Although there are many cleansers and exfoliators that include grapeseed oil, for the most noticeable results, try using it at the moisturising stage to allow your product time to sink into your skin.

In particular, Caudalie is a great brand to consider when choosing skincare products that include grapeseed oil. With an ethos of bringing the French vineyard into the world of beauty, they enrich the majority of their products with grapeseed ingredients and are experts in all things vinotherapy. Their newest range, Vinoclean, uses 100% natural origin ingredients, no synthetic cleaning agents, and is vegan-approved.

Caudalie Sun & Tan Beautifying Suncare Oil SPF30

Say goodbye to the claggy, cloying sun protections of yesteryear, and hello to Caudalie Beautifying Suncare Oil. With nourishing grapeseed oil, a silky texture and SPF30, you’ll be doing good for your skin in more ways than one.

Emma Hardie Amazing Face

The Amazing Face range by Emma Hardie is rich in beneficial ingredients, including grapeseed oil. Try the Moisture Boost Vit+C Cream to brighten dull, sallow skin, or the Beauty Bible Gold Award-winning Brilliance Facial Oil to rebalance and condition.

Gatineau Perfection Ultime Miracle Eye Contour Cream

Bye-bye dark circles! With ingredients including grape seed extract, aloe vera, hyaluronic acid and green tea, the delicate skin around your eyes will feel nourished and look smooth and bright.

Dermalogica Daily Skin Health Intensive Eye Repair

Fight the early signs of ageing with Dermalogica Intensive Eye Repair. Using hydrating ingredients such as grape seed extract, Vitamin A and Pro-Vitamin B5, fine lines are reduced, and the skin is further protected from damage.