Why We Love Avocado Oil for the Skin

While many of us grew up learning that oils were either something to use in moderation (when moisturizing and cooking) or no-no’s (especially when it came to too much on our skin), a new assortment of information suggests otherwise. From essential oils to those we add to our bath for an extra dose of moisture, it’s becoming clear that it’s less “an oil is an oil is an oil” … and more, which oil should I get into next?

Today’s pick? Multi-tasking (and downright delicious) avocado oil which is very beneficial for your skin! Here’s the scoop.

So… What’s Avocado Oil?

There’s so much more to the tough-skinned tropical fruit than a delicious helping of guacamole. While most edible oils are derived from plant seeds, avocado oil is pressed and extracted directly from its bright, smooth pulp. Despite its green-hued origins, avocado oil is golden in color and has a super mild taste that tends to take on the quality of whatever it’s blended with. (This, combined with its super-high smoke point, have made it a rising cooking fave, too.)

Health Benefits of Avocado Oil

There’s a reason it’s often referred to as a “superfood.” Pound for pound, avocados and their oils are packed with a few dozen nutrients — including Vitamin C, E, and B6, Potassium, Folate, and about 15 grams of “healthy” fats.

Avocado Oil Fun Facts

Avocado trees are known to have originated in Mexico and date back as far as 5,000 BC (Talk about a blast from the past!). The name avocado is derived from the Aztec word “āhuacatl” (we’ll let you read up on what that means, here), while a popular modern nickname is “alligator pear.”

Like olive oil, avocado oil is high in monounsaturated fats (aka “healthy fats”) that are known to support cell development and reduce the occurrence of clogged arteries, heart disease, and stroke.