5 Amazing Benefits of Chia Seed Oil for Your Skin and Hair

Chia (Salvia hispanica) is a plant belonging to the mint family. One of its “closest relatives” is sage; actually, the name Salvia hispanica can be translated from Latin as “Spanish sage”. Chia is native to central and southern Mexico and Guatemala, where its seeds are commonly used as food. Although chia is considered a novel food in the Old World, the Aztecs consumed it as early as the 16th century.

The common name of the plant is derived from the Nahuatl word chian, which means oily. It was named so because chia seeds yield about 30% extractable oil, consisting mainly of unsaturated fatty acids (linoleic acid and linolenic acid). Chia oil has a very light consistency, reminding of grapeseed oil, which makes it a great personal care product. Here are some of the amazing beauty benefits of chia seed oil.

It’s a Great Moisturizer

Most carrier oils increase skin hydration due to their ability to reduce trans-epidermal water loss. In other words, chia oil locks moisture in the skin by reinforcing its natural lipid barrier. If you have oily or combination skin, chia seed oil will be better for you than, say, coconut oil because it is less greasy than most oils. This ultra light oil absorbs easily without clogging pores and doesn’t leave your skin looking shiny. Thanks to its lightweight consistency, chia oil can be used to moisturize and tighten the delicate skin around your eyes.

It Has Anti-Age Properties

One of the main factors that contribute to skin aging is free radicals. Chia oil is rich in antioxidants that help neutralize the harmful effects of free radicals and therefore slow down the aging process. In addition, the oil’s high levels of omega-3 fatty acids stimulate collagen synthesis in the epidermis. Collagen is an important protein that supports skin structure and helps keep the skin looking youthful. When used regularly, chia seed oil reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

It Is an Anti-Inflammatory Agent

One of the most valuable benefits of chia seed oil is its ability to combat inflammation. If you have acne, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, or other inflammatory skin conditions, chia oil will soothe inflammation, reduce redness, and speed up skin healing. In addition, this amazing oil helps clear up blemishes, prevents acne scars, combats age spots and other kinds of pigmentation, and evens skin tone.

It Makes the Hair Stronger and Shinier

Thanks to its hydrating and nourishing properties, chia oil improves hair structure, reduces hair loss, boosts hair growth, prevents dry and brittle hair, restores the hair’s natural healthy shine, and relieves dry and itchy scalp. You can apply it directly to your hair (alone or in a combination with other carrier oils) or mix a little bit of oil into any hair mask or conditioner your already own.

It Has a Long Shelf Life

Normally, carrier oils that consists mainly of unsaturated fatty acids have a shorter shelf life than oils rich in saturated fats. However, chia seed oil is one of the few exceptions. While some other oils might go rancid after half a year, chia oil typically lasts longer because of its high antioxidant content. Some brands claim that their products have a shelf life of two years even though they don’t contain any additional preservatives.