Everything You Need to Know About Grapeseed Oil, the Hero Ingredient for Dry Skin

When a skincare ingredient is dubbed a “miracle worker,” as grapeseed oil has been, it’s hard not to feel instantly intrigued. This dry oil has gained quite a bit of attention in recent years and is celebrated for its ability to quench thirsty skin and infuse some serious nutrients—all without a greasy residue. So is grapeseed oil for skin something you should incorporate into your beauty routine? We spoke to two skincare pros for the rundown.

RELATED: The Surprising Benefits of Using Face Oil on Oily Skin

What Is Grapeseed Oil? 

True to its name, grapeseed oil is a type of oil extracted from the small seeds found inside grapes. It’s heralded for several unique properties, one of which is that it has a non-greasy feel despite being an oil. Unlike coconut oil or olive oil, which tend to feel heavy, sit on the skin’s surface and cause a slick feeling, grapeseed oil absorbs quickly. 

“Grapeseed oil has a dry finish, which makes it a popular choice in skincare products,” says Nadia Musavvir, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist. “The dry finish of grapeseed oil makes it ideal for those who prefer lightweight and non-greasy moisturization.” 

Grapeseed Oil Benefits for Skin 

Along with its dry finish, grapeseed oil packs a handful of other benefits when used in skincare regimens. Erica Marie Gatt, esthetician and founder of EM Skin in Los Angeles, says that “this is one of my all-time favorite oils because it’s an all-around miracle worker and there are so many benefits that you get just from one oil.” 

Here are some of the most notable benefits: 

• Supports a Healthy Skin Barrier: Grapeseed oil is rich in linoleic acid (omega-6 fatty acid), which Dr. Musavvir supports a healthy skin barrier while conditioning and moisturizing.
• Antioxidant-Rich: This dry oil is loaded with antioxidants, which help repair and protect the skin from free radical damage, notes Dr. Musavvir.
• Balances Skin: It helps balance oil production so your skin’s not too oily nor too dry, according to this study published in 2022 in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology.
• Soothes: Marie Gatt notes that grapeseed oil has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe skin and calm irritation.
• Promotes a Youthful Look: Dr. Musavvir says grapeseed oil plumps fine lines and wrinkles via its moisturizing and hydrating properties. 

Who Should Use Grapeseed Oil for Skin? 

Grapeseed oil is suitable for all skin types because of its drier finish, Dr. Musavvir says. Whether you have oily, dry, sensitive, or combination skin, grapeseed oil can be incorporated into your skincare routine. 

Does Grapeseed Oil Cause Acne? 

Grapeseed oil is non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t cause acne. In fact, Marie Gatt says it’s a recommended oil for acne since it can help balance sebum production and soothe irritation. Dr. Musavvir agrees, noting, “Its lightweight texture makes it particularly appealing for those with oily or acne-prone skin who want hydration without excess oiliness.” 

Best Grapeseed Skincare Products to Try

Want to add grapeseed oil to your skincare routine? Here are some of our favorite products that hero this ingredient. 

1. Face Reality Hydrabalance 

“Face Reality’s Hydrabalance is a fantastic product for those who are struggling with acne and/or inflamed skin,” Marie Gatt says. “It has a wonderful mixture of lavender oil, aloe, and other calming and anti-bacterial ingredients.”

2. Korres Santorini Grape Velvet Skin Drink

This multitasking skincare oil from Korres is formulated for all skin types. It helps hydrate, blurs imperfections, and lends a velvety look and feel. Along with grapeseed oil, it's also made with grape extract and resveratrol. 

3. Vintner’s Daughter Active Botanical Serum

Dr. Musavvir highly recommends Vintner’s Daughter Active Botanical Serum which includes a buffet of botanical ingredients including grapeseed oil. “It offers a wide range of skincare benefits,” she says. 

4. Fig.1 Micellar Oil Cleanser

You’ve heard of micellar water and oil cleansers, but what about a product that combines both? Fig.1’s Micellar Oil Cleanser has a silky-smooth feel that quickly breaks down oil, dirt, and makeup while hydrating and balancing your skin.

5. Retrouve Classique Intensive Replenishing Facial Moisturizer

Retrouve’s Intensive Replenishing Facial Moisturizer is a splurge-y, luxurious daily moisturizer that Marie Gatt swears by. It’s formulated with a blend of natural oils and botanical ingredients that help leave your skin feeling plump, dewy, and hydrated.