If you’re looking for the best sesame oil for skin, you’re in the right place. The reviews below go in-depth about which sesame oil brand is best and how to use sesame oil for glowing skin. Let’s begin by discussing the benefits of sesame oil.
Here’s why it’s time to try sesame oil on your face
Although celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow are using sesame for oil pulling, that’s not the only benefit. Sure, oil pulling might help your teeth and gums because sesame oil is antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory. But it’s also rich in antioxidants and vitamin E, so it’s perfect for treating wrinkles and protecting against sun damage.
Sesame oil guards against environmental pollution and UV rays which can prematurely age the skin. Moreover, it could help treat acne as it calms inflammation. It’s right in the middle on the comedogenic scale, which means it doesn’t present a high risk for clogging pores (1).
We’ve also seen studies done on sesame oil for treating burns and other types of trauma. Therefore, it’s not surprising that it’s used for massage, too. After all, it keeps the skin supple.
Which is the best kind of sesame oil for skin?
We prefer cold-pressed sesame oil for the skin as it retains the maximum amount of nutrients. However, refined sesame oil is also a good choice because it’s lower on the comedogenic scale and less likely to clog pores.
Now, there are different types of sesame oil including dark and light. The dark, toasted seed oil is a favorite seasoning for Asian foods because of its strong nutty flavor. Meanwhile, the light-colored oil is best for cooking and has a milder flavor and aroma.
How to use sesame oil on skin
Any time you use a natural oil to moisturize your skin, there is a trick you need to know. It works best if you use it right after you wash. Apply it to damp skin.
That’s because plant oil by itself doesn’t hydrate. It doesn’t add water or attract moisture into the skin like glycerin or hyaluronic acid.
Don’t waste a lot of time with your towel. Instead, a thin layer of the oil and give it a minute or two to absorb.
The same is true if you want to deep condition your hair. Make a homemade mask with sesame oil and apply it to the ends of your hair when it’s damp.
Which sesame oil brand is best?
If you’re not sure which brand to get, we recommend choosing organic oil from a reputable manufacturer. If it’s food-grade, then it’s perfectly safe for skincare, too. Scroll down to see our top picks of the best organic sesame oils.
FYI, much of the worldwide supply of sesame oil comes from the flowering Sesamum indicum plant in Tanzania, Africa, but the crop is also grown in other places like Turkey, India, and other parts of Asia.