Is Quinoa Oil Your Skin’s New Best Friend?

by

Quinoa is a rich source of protein for vegetarians and vegans while quinoa oil is a nutritious oil that’s ideal for hair and skin. 

Quinoa is considered a complete source of plant protein and a super grain. The oil contains all of these nutrients as well. 

Read on for all the deets on quinoa oil, its benefits and best uses, and how you can incorporate it into your hair and skin care regimen. 

Quinoa-Oil-Benefits-and-Best-Uses-for-Hair-and-Skin

What is Quinoa Oil? 

Quinoa (pronounced keen-wah) oil is a rich oil derived from the germ of the Chenopodium quinoa; a grain that’s being cultivated for thousands of years in South America.

The oil is derived by cold pressing the quinoa seeds. Quinoa oil is a light yellow-orange color, with a neutral smell and taste.

The amount of oil that can be derived from quinoa is relatively higher than other cereal grains (corn and wheat).

Quinoa oil is similar to corn oil but contains more essential fatty acids. So does quinoa oil do it all?

6 Quinoa Oil Benefits

1. Quinoa Oil is Stable

Quinoa contains a high amount of natural antioxidants, especially tocopherol (vitamin E) which makes it a stable oil with a long shelf life. 

Antioxidants help our skin fight free radicals that damage the skin and cause premature wrinkles and inflammation. 

2. Rich in Essential Fatty Acids

Quinoa oil is rich in essential fatty acids omega 3, 6, and 9. The human body already produces omega 9.

By applying quinoa oil to your skin, you’re boosting your skin’s supply of these nutritious acids.

This study delves into how omegas support healthy skin and aid in reducing inflammation.

There’s a reason NativaSPA’s entire collection is fuelled by quinoa oil.

3. Quinoa Oil Hydrates Skin

Quinoa oil is occlusive. This means it will prevent transepidermal water loss and keep skin soft and supple.

Ideal for protecting all skin types in harsh conditions like winter and desert areas.

4. Rich in Essential Amino Acids

Quinoa oil is a rich source of essential amino acids including lysine, which enhance skin texture and promote collagen and elastin production.

Additionally, frequent application of quinoa oil will lead to brighter and glowing skin. 

5. Improves Appearance of Stretch Marks

The rich antioxidants and tocopherols in quinoa oil help add a layer of protection to the skin and improve the appearance of stretch marks after only a few weeks of use. 

6. More Nutrients Than Common Plant Oils

Quinoa oil contains 30 times more essential fatty acids than coconut oil, 4 times more than avocado oil, and twice more than argan oil and almond oil.

May sound like too much but it’s actually a good thing!

How To Use Quinoa Oil

  • Quinoa oil is used in many anti-aging and hair care products (more below).
  • Quinoa oil can be used as a substitute for other oils in cooking and frying. It can also be used as a salad dressing. 
  • Apply quinoa oil to your skin within a few minutes of getting out of the shower. It works so much better when the skin is damp. 

Quinoa Beauty Products – Hair 

Biotop Professional has an entire quinoa hair care line that caters to dry and damaged hair. The line includes:-

911 Quinoa Hair Mask
911 Quinoa Shampoo
911 Quinoa Conditioner

Quinoa Oil Beauty Products – Skin 

OBoticario originated in Brazil and brings all the goodness of 100% pure quinoa oil and other nutritious extracts to their nativa SPA skin care line. The line includes:-

You can view the entire nativa SPA body care line HERE.

Nativa SPA Quinoa Hydrating Body Oil
Nativa SPA Shea Moisturizing Body Lotion
Nativa SPA Rosé Moisturizing Body Lotion

Where To Buy Quinoa Oil? 

Pure quinoa oil is hard to find outside of South America. However, you can enjoy the goodness of quinoa oil in the hair and beauty products recommended above.

FAQs About Quinoa Oil

Is Quinoa Oil Healthy?

Quinoa oil is a rich source of healthy fats and vitamin E, and is a stable oil with significant antioxidant properties. It’s indeed a healthy oil for hair, skin, and health.

What Is Quinoa Oil in Skin Care?

In skin care, quinoa oil is used as a softening, hydrating, and anti-aging ingredient in formulations. 

It is also used for its antioxidant abilities which prevent free radical damage in the skin. 

Is Quinoa Good With Olive Oil?

Quinoa is good with olive oil depending on what you want to use it for. For skin care, I wouldn’t recommend mixing them together.

For hair care, you can always experiment in incremental quantities to see how your hair responds to it.

Where is Quinoa From?

Quinoa comes from the Andean region of South America and can be found especially in Bolivia, Ecuador, Chile, and Peru.

Quinoa is available in black, red, yellow, and white. White and yellow quinoa has a mild taste while black and red have a stronger, earthier flavor.

For more on adding quinoa to your diet, head over to A Breakdown of The Superfood Quinoa.

Quinoa Oil Shelf Life

Stored away from moisture and sunlight, quinoa oil has a shelf life of up to 2 years.

References 

Abi is a curly hair expert who delved into the world of natural oils after severe hair loss issues. Through her research, study, and testing, she was able to regrow her bald spots & a healthy head of hair. She is the founder of Healthy Natural Hair Products & Ade Ori Hair Care, and the author of the highly-rated Healthy Hair Care Series. She continues to study hair science, Ayurveda, and natural and healthy solutions for hair and skin. Learn more about our Editorial Guidelines…

This post contains affiliate links which means I will make a small commission if you purchase through those links. Read full disclosure HERE.

Leave a Comment