Avocado oil is celebrated as a healthy oil for both internal consumption and topical skincare, thanks to its unique nutritional profile. It is derived from the pulp of the avocado fruit, rather than the seed, which sets it apart from many other vegetable oils.

Why Avocado Oil is Considered an Excellent Healthy Oil

Avocado oil’s health benefits are largely attributed to its high concentration of monounsaturated fats, particularly oleic acid.

Heart-Healthy Fats: Approximately 70% of the fatty acids in avocado oil are monounsaturated, which are known to help lower “bad” LDL cholesterol and increase “good” HDL cholesterol. This can help reduce the risk of heart disease.
High in Antioxidants: Avocado oil is a rich source of antioxidants like Vitamin E, carotenoids (including lutein and beta-carotene), and other plant sterols. These compounds help to fight free radicals in the body, protecting against cellular damage and reducing oxidative stress.
Enhances Nutrient Absorption: Many vitamins (A, D, E, and K) and antioxidants (like carotenoids) are fat-soluble, meaning they require fat to be properly absorbed by the body. Using avocado oil in meals can significantly increase the absorption of these essential nutrients from other foods.
High Smoke Point: Unrefined, cold-pressed avocado oil has a medium smoke point, making it suitable for low-to-medium heat cooking. However, refined avocado oil has a very high smoke point, making it an excellent choice for high-heat cooking methods like frying, grilling, and roasting without the oil breaking down and losing its beneficial properties.

Avocado Oil’s Great Effectiveness for Skincare

When applied to the skin, avocado oil’s unique composition works to moisturize, protect, and heal.

Deeply Moisturizing: The oil contains potassium, lecithin, and essential fatty acids that penetrate the skin’s outer layer, providing deep and lasting hydration. This makes it particularly effective for treating dry, flaky, or chapped skin.
Soothes and Heals: Its anti-inflammatory properties, combined with vitamins and antioxidants, can help to soothe and heal skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis by reducing redness, itching, and irritation.
Boosts Collagen Production: Avocado oil’s oleic acid and essential fatty acids promote collagen synthesis, which is crucial for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness. This can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Protects Against Damage: The antioxidants in avocado oil, such as Vitamin E and lutein, help protect the skin from environmental stressors and UV radiation. While it should not be used as a substitute for sunscreen, it can offer an additional layer of protection.
Fights Acne: Despite being an oil, avocado oil is non-comedogenic and has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help prevent and treat acne without clogging pores.

Various Uses and Dosage

Edible Uses (As a Healthy Oil)

Avocado oil is highly versatile in the kitchen. The dosage is typically based on a standard serving size for oils.

Cooking: Use it as a healthy alternative to other cooking oils for pan-frying, sautéing, or roasting. Its neutral flavor makes it suitable for a wide range of dishes.
Salad Dressing: It can be used as a base for salad dressings, marinades, and dips. A common recommendation is to use about 1-2 tablespoons per serving.
Baking: It can be used to replace butter or other fats in baking recipes.
Dosage: A typical daily intake is about 1-2 tablespoons as part of a balanced diet.

Skincare Uses (As a Skincare Oil)

Avocado oil can be applied directly to the skin or used as an ingredient in homemade beauty products.

Facial Moisturizer: Apply a few drops of pure, cold-pressed avocado oil to your face and neck after cleansing, both morning and night.
Body Oil: Massage a generous amount into your skin after a shower to lock in moisture and soothe dry areas.
Hair and Scalp Treatment: Use it as a deep conditioner or a hot oil treatment to moisturize the scalp, reduce dandruff, and add shine to hair.
Carrier Oil: Like apricot oil, avocado oil is an excellent carrier oil for essential oils. Dilute essential oils in avocado oil before applying to the skin.
Dosage: For topical use, there is no strict “dosage.” Apply a small amount to the desired area and massage it in until it’s absorbed. It is always recommended to perform a patch test on a small area of skin before using it all over to ensure there is no allergic reaction.