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How Effective Is Grapeseed Oil for Acne?

Marlene de Wilde
Marlene de Wilde

Grapeseed oil is an effective treatment for acne and acne scars. The use of grapeseed oil for acne is beneficial principally because it does not clog the pores of the skin and is a source of vitamin E and linoleic acid, both of which benefit the skin. It is a light odorless oil with mild astringent and emollient properties.

This oil is extracted from the seeds found in the solid leftover of the grapes after the liquid has been expressed for the making of wine. Grape seeds are small and hard and this makes the process of extracting the oil a difficult one. Because they are so hard, however, they are resistant to the chemicals and additives involved in the grape growing and winemaking processes.

An omega 6 deficiency may result in dry hair and hair loss.
An omega 6 deficiency may result in dry hair and hair loss.

There is a high concentration of vitamin E in the oil, which is one of the reasons using grapeseed oil for acne is so effective. Vitamin E is an antioxidant which helps in the maintenance of healthy skin eliminating harmful free radicals. It has also been found to help reduce scarring from acne.

It is also a highly concentrated source of linoleic acid, otherwise known as omega 6. This is an essential fatty acid with powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Many modern diets lack sources of linoleic acid and so skin problems such as acne may result. A deficiency in omega 6 can also result in dry hair, hair loss and poor healing of wounds.

Grapeseed oil may be used as an ingredient in face creams.
Grapeseed oil may be used as an ingredient in face creams.

Another reason for the effectiveness of grapeseed oil for acne is that it is a source of oligomeric proanthocyanidin, a powerful antioxidant that can help in neutralizing the free radicals that promote most diseases and conditions such as acne. It is many times more powerful than vitamin E. Oligomeric proanthocyanidin improves and stabilizes the skin protein collagen and resist inflammation and skin damage.

A boy with acne.
A boy with acne.

Grapeseed oil for acne can be used on its own or as an ingredient in face creams, bath oils, soaps and cosmetics. As the oil is mildly astringent and rich in vitamin E and other antioxidants, it is often used in products designed for acne-prone or oily skins. The fact that it also moisturizes and nourishes makes it popular in anti-aging products. The use of grapeseed oil for acne is becoming more and more popular as most acne sufferers find it is beneficial. It does not suit everyone, however, which means that it will be effective for some but not for others.

Discussion Comments

Heavanet

That is sound advice Rundocuri. I tried grapeseed oil for acne when I was in college, and I had minimal results. Now I think that the fact that it was a form of oil may have been the reason it didn't work well for me.

Rundocuri

If you are looking for the best acne treatment for you, always check with your doctor or dermatologist first. Some people with acne do not respond well to treatments with any type of oil, so it's best to be on the safe side before you attempt a cure on your own.

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    • An omega 6 deficiency may result in dry hair and hair loss.
      By: vladimirfloyd
      An omega 6 deficiency may result in dry hair and hair loss.
    • Grapeseed oil may be used as an ingredient in face creams.
      By: Konstantin Yuganov
      Grapeseed oil may be used as an ingredient in face creams.
    • A boy with acne.
      By: Jörg Hackemann
      A boy with acne.
    • Grapeseed oil.
      By: Anson
      Grapeseed oil.
    • Grapeseed oil can help reduce acne scarring.
      By: Budimir Jevtic
      Grapeseed oil can help reduce acne scarring.