Ever since I got serious about wellness (about 7 years ago), I’ve had chia seeds everyday. I either have it with hot water and lemon, in overnight oats, or in some type of healthy baked good I’ve cooked up. The thing I love about chia seeds is the subtle sweet taste they give to dishes. It’s been especially rewarding the weeks I eliminate sugars. Chia seeds are one of the best foods to help restore electrolytes to your body. But, did you know chia seed, more specifically, chia seed oil is incredible in skincare products?

What is chia seed oil?

Chia seeds are rich in antioxidants and emollients (read: moisturizer). People enjoy them for the fiber, fatty acids, vitamins, and proteins they have. Chia seed oil on the other hand, more scientifically known as hispanica seed oil, is a non-fragrant oil extracted from chia plants. This oil is commonly found in moisturizers, eye creams and haircare products.

What are the benefits of chia seed oil?

The incredible benefits of chia seed oil are endless. Some of our favorite and most effective are below.

1. Increases skin hydration: Chia seed oil will stop water loss and replenish the moisture in your skin.
2. Protects from free-radical damage: As an antioxidant, chia seed oil helps protect the skin from free radicals (like pollution and UV rays) that can cause premature aging.
3. Moisturizes skin: Rich in emollients, it will soften the skin and improve the skin barrier function.
4. Improves dryness and itchiness: Chia seed oil will make your skin no longer itchy or dry.
5. Rich in fatty acids: Made with linoleic acid (omega-6 fatty acid).

How often can you use chia seed oil?

Chia seed oil is a safe and effective ingredient to use in beauty products for any type of formula and skin area. Chia seed oil is easily tolerated, and certified dermatologist Dr. Russak even says the ingredient could be used on irritated, inflamed, and oil-prone skin. “I would only recommend avoid using if someone has an allergy to chia seeds,” Russak says.

How to use it

Dr. Russak recommends applying the oil on clean skin after cleansing the face as the next step in your skincare routine, so it absorbs and does not get diluted by the other products. Allow a few minutes for the product to soak in before applying your moisturizer and sunscreen. Dr. Russak adds that due to its antioxidant properties, chia seed oil is best used in the morning to decrease the effects of exogenous stressors on the skin.

Topical chia seed oil vs. Edible chia seeds

Chia seeds are great for your health, but you already knew that. The benefits of chia seed consumption are well documented, and chia seeds are considered to be one of the most nutrient-rich foods in the world. High in protein, fiber, and linolenic acid (omega-3 fatty acid), chia seeds are a heart-healthy food, but doctors say that studies that correlate the ingestion of chia seeds with skin health and skin benefits are limited.

For other beneficial oils, check out:

Argan oil for your hair and skin
Why cypress oil is the essential oil of all oils
Algae oil for your hair
Eucalyptus oil for your scalp
Jojoba oil for your hair

Photo via The Ordinary