Here, everything you need to know about using pomegranate oil in skin care. The oil is often cold-pressed from the seeds and then used in oils, serums, or creams. You may also look for pomegranate skin oil, which is oil made from the skin of the fruit, pomegranate extract, which takes certain components (like specific antioxidants) from the pomegranate, or pomegranate essential oil, which should always be mixed with a carrier oil. It’s been hailed as a super fruit and beloved in skin care for its potent fatty acid, polyphenol, and other antioxidant properties—which can account for its many benefits. So let’s get into them, shall we? Here’s what you may expect according to research and the professionals: “Traditionally, pomegranate seed oil compounds have been touted for their anti-aging effects,” says board-certified dermatologist Raechele Cochran Gathers, M.D. “Pomegranate seed oil has both strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may make it useful in helping decrease signs of aging such as wrinkles and dark spots. “And, in one study, a compound with pomegranate seed oil was shown to improve the growth of skin cells and improve skin hydration and elasticity.” Aesthetician and Alpha-H Facialist Taylor Worden agrees: “Pomegranate seed oil is rich in fatty acids, which helps your skin look more hydrated, plumper. The oil can also nourish and soften dry, cracked skin—and also help redness and flakiness. Additionally, pomegranate seed oil works great as an emollient for the skin and helps with eczema and psoriasis—but it can also moisturize acne or oily skin without clogging the pores.” Essentially it’s a hydrating ingredient that benefits all skin types! “Because it’s rich in many antioxidants and contains a high amount of vitamin C, it works as an anti-inflammatory to decrease inflammation, fight the free radicals, and will lighten, tighten, and brighten the skin,” says Worden. Cochran Gathers agrees: “There have also been some studies that suggest that components of pomegranate seed oil may have a photoprotective effect against some types of UV1 light skin damage. Keep in mind, though, using pomegranate oil is not a replacement for sunscreen!” Not to mention, acne is itself an inflammatory condition, so it’s vital that you also alleviate inflammation while controlling sebum. “Use it in the hair,” notes Worden. “It nourishes the hair, stimulates blood circulation, which promotes hair growth and balances scalp pH.” If you need help narrowing down your selects, here are our clean, organic, and natural favorites. The Face Oil, Augustinus Bader ($230) Antioxidant Face Oil, Mad Hippie ($24.99) The Youth Dew Balancing Face Serum, May Lindstrom ($140) “It contains hydrolyzable tannins, flavonols, anthocyanins, and phenolic and organic acids,” registered dietitian Ella Davar, R.D., CDN, tells mindbodygreen about eating pomegranates. “One of the most important health-related functions of the pomegranate is their effect on gut microbiota and their potential use as antimicrobial agents. Fiber from the seeds contributes to gut health by serving as a prebiotic (food for probiotic, live gut-friendly bacteria) and providing the necessary bulk to keep the bowel movement regular and optimize digestive health.” The latter point is helpful as we know how intimately gut health and your skin are connected. You can also simply drink the juice to amp up your skin-healthy benefits. “According to research studies3, the antioxidant potential of pomegranate juice is more than that of red wine and green tea,” says Davar. But once you’ve done this, and you’d like to give DIY a go, here’s an easy recipe to follow:
