What is Grapeseed Oil

Grapeseed oil is a lightweight, mild cold-pressed oil extracted from the seeds of grapes using a hydraulic steel press. This method is said to retain the goodness and purity of the ingredients. Grapeseed oil has flavonoids, vitamin E, Procyanidin Oligomers, Proanthocyanidins (condensed tannins), Linoleic acid, many mighty antioxidants and several plant compounds to help fight free radicals and health benefits.

Grapeseed oil can range in colours from bright green to translucent and may have a weak sweet smell.

How grapeseed oil may benefit the hair

In 1998 an animal study shows that proanthocyanidins stimulate hair growth and these results could create a similar growth in humans. Other tests have shown (mostly in animals) that the procyanidin oligomers is contained in grapeseed oil can also induce hair growth in humans. These rich antioxidants found in grapeseed oil are believed to help treat hair androgenetic alopecia. Also, other researchers have shown if grapeseed oil is used as a carrier with essential oils such as Rosemary, Lavender, Thyme, and Cedarwood it may benefit people who suffer from alopecia areata (when the immune system attacks hair follicles) as it helps to grow stronger hair than just using grapeseed oil on its own.

Grapes have been used for medicinal purpose in Asia for thousands of years and in places like India, grapeseed oil is used to nourish and revitalised the hair as it contains oleic acid as well as linoleic acid and other fatty acids. Linoleic acid is an omega 6 fatty acid that helps stimulate hair growth.

Just like many other oils, grapeseed oil helps to seal in the moisture (water) on the hair strands and scalp and therefore keeps the hair hydrated for longer and helping the hair strands keep its elasticity and flexibility. Since this is a lightweight oil, it will not weigh down the hair like other oils such as castor oils, jojoba oils, etc.

Grapeseed oil contains leucoanthocyanins; these composites help to fight free radicals. Researchers believe that free radicals cause the hair to go grey and therefore this oil helps fight premature greyness as well as soothes inflamed scalp and reduces dandruff. Also, grapeseed oil contains a very high boiling point and have some anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties, making it a great heat protection for the hair (and skin).

How grapeseed oil may the skin

A 2002 study shows that the anti-inflammatory properties of grapeseed oil help to reduce swelling and redness of the skin. The oil also helps to lock in the moisture on the skin and leaves the skin soft, hydrated, supple and elasticated. Proanthocyanidin found in grapeseed oil is believed to even out the skin tone.

It is great a massage oil as it contains linolenic acid and vitamin E; these nourish the skin and absorbed easily by the body. Due to the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties, grapeseed oil is believed to protect the skin from UV sun rays.

Disadvantages of Grapeseed Oil

At the moment there are very few risks associated with grapeseed oil.

When consumed (cooking) it is believed that grapeseed oil may be unsuitable for people who suffer from blood conditions; using blood-thinning medications such as Warfarin and those who are about to have surgery.

Even though there aren’t any risk factors associated with grapeseed oil for cosmetic use, it will be wise to do a spot test for any allergies to the oil.

Reference

Watson, K (2019); Grapeseed Oil for Skin: Benefits and Uses; Healthline; https://www.healthline.com/health/grapeseed-oil-for-skin

The North American Essential Oil and Aromatherapy Expers (08/03/2020); Grapeseed Oil Benefits and Uses for Hair, Skin, Face, & Where to Buy; Essential Oil Experts; https://essentialoilexperts.com/grapeseed-oil/

Curejoy Editorial (2018); 7 Benefits Of Grapeseed Oil For Hair Growth; CureJoy; https://www.curejoy.com/content/benefits-of-grapeseed-oil-for-hair/

Naturally Daily Team (2019); 10 Amazing Benefits of Grapeseed Oil for Hair; Naturally Daily; https://naturallydaily.com/benefits-of-grapeseed-oil-for-hair/

Chockyfoodie (2011); What Are The Advantages & Disadvantages of Grapeseed oil; Ifood.tv; https://ifood.tv/ingredients/283380-what-are-the-advantages-disadvantages-of-grapeseed-oil

Photo by Nacho Domínguez Argenta on Unsplash