Although avocado oil is best known for its culinary uses, it also provides numerous benefits for skincare. Avocado oil is a prominent ingredient in many moisturizers and sunscreens.

Let’s explore the benefits of avocado oil for the skin and the best ways to apply it effectively.

8 Amazing Benefits for Your Skin

Avocado oil is known to contain omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins A, D, and E, which are beneficial for the skin. Additionally, avocado oil has the following uses:

1. Moisturizes and Nourishes

In addition to vitamin E, avocado oil contains potassium, lecithin, and other nutrients that help nourish and moisturize the skin. The outermost layer of the skin, known as the epidermis, can easily absorb these nutrients, aiding in the formation of new skin.

2. Reduces Dry Skin, Psoriasis, and Eczema

The antioxidants and vitamins in avocado oil can help heal dry, irritated, and flaky skin caused by eczema and psoriasis. To ensure it doesn’t cause irritation, test a small amount of avocado oil on an affected area before full application.

3. Prevents and Treats Acne

Applying avocado oil to the face for a short period before rinsing it off with warm water can help keep the skin hydrated while reducing oiliness and sebum production. This can lower the risk of acne breakouts. Avocado oil also has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce redness and swelling associated with acne.

4. Speeds Up Wound Healing

Avocado oil can accelerate wound healing. A 2013 study found that the essential fatty acids and oleic acid in avocado oil can promote collagen synthesis, which is crucial for forming new connective tissue. These fatty acids also help reduce inflammation during the healing process.

However, more clinical studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness of avocado oil in wound treatment.

5. Treats Sunburned Skin

The antioxidants in avocado oil may help alleviate sunburn symptoms. A 2011 review suggests that vitamin E, beta carotene, vitamin D, protein, lecithin, and essential fatty acids in avocado oil contribute to skin healing and soothing effects. Moreover, other studies indicate that consuming avocados may help protect the skin from harmful UV radiation.

6. Reduces Signs of Aging

The first signs of aging often appear on the skin. Some research suggests that consuming healthy fats, such as those found in avocados, may help maintain skin elasticity.

However, researchers have yet to determine whether applying avocado oil topically provides the same anti-aging benefits.

7. Strengthens Nails

Some people use avocado oil to treat dry, brittle nails, though there is limited scientific evidence to support this claim. However, using natural oil can help keep nails and cuticles soft, reducing breakage.

8. Improves Scalp Health

Applying avocado oil to the scalp as a hot oil treatment can help reduce dandruff and other issues associated with a dry, flaky scalp.

Other Health Benefits of Avocado Oil

Research indicates that avocado oil may help prevent certain health conditions, including diabetes and high cholesterol. A 2014 study found that avocado oil offers similar health benefits to olive oil.

A 2017 study concluded that avocado oil may reduce oxidative stress, which can cause kidney damage in people with type 2 diabetes. This benefit is attributed to avocado oil’s high content of oleic acid, a "healthy fat" known for its positive health effects. However, more clinical studies are needed to validate its use in human treatments.

Beyond protecting kidney health, oleic acid is also known for reducing the risk of certain cancers, preventing autoimmune disease flare-ups, accelerating cell regeneration for wound healing, eliminating bacterial infections, and reducing inflammation in the body.

How to Use Avocado Oil

Avocado oil can be used for massages, as a face mask, or mixed with lotions, shower gels, or bath oils. The advantage is that it can be used daily without adverse effects.

Facial Moisturizer

To use avocado as a facial moisturizer, mash fresh avocado and apply it to your face. Leave it on for about 15 minutes, then rinse with warm water.

Bottled avocado oil can also be used as a nighttime facial moisturizer. Like an overnight mask, gently massage avocado oil into the skin before bed and wash it off in the morning.

Bath Soak

Add a few tablespoons of avocado oil to your bathwater and soak in it to help soften your skin and prevent dryness. You can also mix avocado oil with your favorite body wash for a more relaxing experience.

Body Moisturizer

Mix avocado oil with other essential oils and massage the blend onto your skin after a shower. Pat your skin dry with a towel before applying the oil. Avocado oil can be used all over the body to help keep the skin soft and hydrated.

Scalp Treatment

If you have a dry scalp, using avocado oil as a hot oil treatment can be beneficial. Warm the oil by placing two tablespoons in a small glass jar and submerging it in a pot of hot water. Check the oil’s temperature frequently to avoid overheating. Once warm, remove the jar and gently massage the oil into your scalp. You can leave it overnight and wash it off in the morning. This method may help reduce dandruff and scalp dryness.

Treating Dry, Flaky Skin

To heal and soften rough, dry skin, mix equal parts avocado oil and olive oil, then apply the mixture to the skin once or twice daily for the best results.

Potential Risks and Precautions

Avocado oil is highly concentrated and may cause skin irritation. While side effects are rare, some individuals may have allergies to avocados or avocado oil.

To avoid allergic reactions, conduct a patch test before use. Apply a small amount of avocado oil to your arm and wait 24 hours. If no irritation occurs, it is safe to use on other areas of your skin. However, exercise caution when applying avocado oil to your face, as facial skin is more sensitive and prone to irritation than the skin on your arms.