When it came to sourcing a natural, nourishing oil for Crawford Street Skin Care, I had exceptionally high standards. Unless it was worthy of royalty, it had no business in my formulations. My search led me to an ingredient that might surprise you—one you'd find in most kitchens!

Sesame seed oil comes from the seeds of the sesame plant, an herb native to East Africa and India. It is one of the oldest vegetable oils known to man.  

Revered for its exceptional healing and moisturizing properties both in ancient Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine, the history of sesame oil in skin care goes back centuries. Archeologists have discovered hieroglyphics in Ancient Egyptian burial sites that confirm that civilization was using sesame oil on the skin. It is said that Cleopatra prized the oil for its restorative and nourishing properties, hence its nickname “the Queen of Oils.”

Sesame oil is an excellent moisturizer, thanks to its high concentrations of linoleic acid and vitamin B. The fatty acids in sesame seed oil create a skin barrier locking in moisture and leaving skin silky soft and smooth. The polyphenols present in sesame oil can also naturally balance your skin's pH levels, which can stop it from becoming too oily or too dry throughout the day.

Sesame oil is packed with vitamin E, an antioxidant that has been proven to reduce the signs of aging and hyperpigmentation. Applying sesame oil frequently to the skin can help repair damaged skin cells as well as reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. 

Sesame oil is also bursting with antioxidants. Studies have shown that it effectively speeds up the healing process of wounds and burns. It has the added benefit of protecting the skin from the harsh UV rays of the sun. It has a built-in SPF! This is because the antioxidants neutralize oxidative stress caused by environmental factors like free radicals, pollutants and the sun. Despite this protection it is always a good idea to wear a sunscreen of at least 30 SPF.

Those that suffer from eczema and psoriasis can also benefit from sesame oil. The high concentrations of both vitamin B and C are very effective against severely dry and irritated skin. Add to that the anti-bacterial, wound healing qualities of this oil and you have a potent daily repair ritual. 

Find sesame seed oil in our Body Oil, Body Butter, Body Lotion, Hydrating Face Cream, and our Outdoor Body Spray.