6 Powerful Watermelon Seed Oil Benefits for the Skin

Facial oils are having a well-deserved moment in the skincare world, and we're here for it. For those with sensitive or acne-prone skin, we only recommend non-comedogenic oils (meaning they don't clog pores), such as argan, hemp, squalane, and watermelon seed.

Why watermelon? Watermelon seed oil benefits go beyond preventing congested pores and moisturizing dry skin. As with CLEARSTEM's GOLDENHOUR Watermelon Barrier Oil, this lightweight yet highly nourishing substance helps prevent breakouts while delivering numerous anti-aging benefits.

Keep scrolling for a detailed breakdown of this skin-friendly oil, including what it does for the skin, why it's good for multiple skin types, and how to use this facial oil in your skincare routine.

What is Watermelon Seed Oil?

Watermelon seed oil is a plant oil derived from the seeds of watermelon (Citrullus vulgaris). Sometimes called ootanga oil or kalahari oil, it's often sourced from wild watermelons native to the Kalahari Desert.

This all-star skincare ingredient is chock full of nutrients that play well with skin. This includes:

• Unsaturated fatty acids like oleic acid and linoleic acid
• Saturated fatty acids like stearic acid and palmitic acid
• Powerful antioxidants, such as vitamin E

Watermelon seed oil is created by first extracting the seeds from their casings, and then drying them. Once the watermelon seeds are dry, they're pressed to release the nutrient-dense oil within.

The Hydrating Benefits of Watermelon Seed Oil

As a lightweight, fast-absorbing oil, one of the main perks of watermelon seed oil is that it provides intense hydration without clogging pores or leaving the skin feeling greasy. This is ideal for oily skin and people prone to breakouts.

How Watermelon Seed Oil Works for Oily and Acne-Prone Skin

Watermelon seed is an especially beneficial oil for acne-prone skin. Those wanting to prevent pimples might reach for watermelon oil because it:

• Balances oil production. By helping balance your skin's oil production, lightweight facial oils like watermelon seed oil can minimize sebum (the greasy, waxy substance within your pores), prevent a greasy T-zone, and keep blackheads at bay.
• Prevents clogged pores. When you apply skincare products containing non-comedogenic oils like this one, you won't have to worry about them clogging your pores or creating a congested complexion.
• Helps reduce acne breakouts. Since watermelon oil absorbs quickly and doesn't sit on top of your skin, it's unlikely to lead to breakouts as a result of blocked pores and might contribute to fewer blemishes overall.

Anti-Aging Properties of Watermelon Seed Oil

Watermelon oil benefits go far beyond moisturizing the skin. Rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids, this hard-working ingredient prevents water loss, fights oxidative stress, replenishes a healthy skin barrier, addresses uneven texture, and offers a plumping effect for smoother, healthier-looking skin.

How Watermelon Seed Oil Supports Skin Elasticity

Watermelon seed oil skin benefits can do wonders for mature skin. This skincare hero supports skin elasticity by:

• Boosting collagen production. Watermelon fruit is a natural source of amino acids, which make up the main proteins in skin, including collagen and elastin. The result? A strengthened skin barrier and a youthful complexion.
• Improving skin firmness. Watermelon seed oil is rich in tocopherol (vitamin E). This antioxidant fights free radicals and addresses multiple signs of photoaging (sun damage), such as crepiness, saggy skin, and loss of elasticity.
• Softening the appearance of wrinkles. By plumping the skin, healing the skin barrier, and preventing water loss, this facial oil can soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Read our blog to explore the skin benefits of collagen serum.

Why Non-Comedogenic Products Matter for Your Skin

When buying skincare products, whether it's a face oil or serum, non-comedogenic formulas are crucial. Non-comedogenic products won't clog your pores, which can help reduce and prevent breakouts while offering non-greasy hydration.

Since it's unlikely to cause irritation or pimples, this type of product is generally suitable for all skin types, including acne-prone, oily, combination, mature, and sensitive skin.

With a non-comedogenic oil like our GOLDENHOUR Watermelon Barrier Oil, you can rest assured it won't lead to blemishes, block your pores, or feel heavy on your skin. Instead, it helps balance your skin's natural oil production so your complexion looks healthy and hydrated with a radiant glow.

How to Use Watermelon Seed Oil in Your Skincare Routine

It depends on the specific formula, but generally speaking, you can apply watermelon seed facial oil after your daily moisturizer. The idea is to support the acid mantle (the outermost layer of skin) while boosting moisture and locking in hydration.

Watermelon oil can be used alongside other non-comedogenic formulas to maximize hydration, reduce acne flare-ups, and reap all the anti-aging benefits. 

This product can be the final step of your skincare routine—but if you're applying it in the morning, be sure to follow with sunscreen. If you're using it as a serum, you can apply this product before face lotion or cream.

Best Practices for Applying Watermelon Face Oil

Here's what we recommend when using GOLDENHOUR Watermelon Barrier Oil:

• Use a few drops. A little goes a long way—trust us. A few drops of this face oil are plenty for each application, and more won't give you better results.
• Pat gently into the skin for better absorption. After cleansing, toning, and moisturizing your skin, gently pat a few drops of Watermelon Face Oil over your face, neck, and chest.
• Apply in both morning and night routines. This product is gentle enough to be applied twice a day. You can use it as the last step of your a.m. and p.m. skincare routines, but as noted, don't skip the sunscreen in the morning.

Embrace the Power of Watermelon Seed Oil for Healthy, Radiant Skin

Our GOLDENHOUR Watermelon Barrier Oil is a multi-action product. This quick-absorbing, ultra-light oil provides ample hydration while preventing breakouts and combating the signs of skin aging.

This product makes an excellent addition to your skincare routine, along with CLEARSTEM's other non-comedogenic skincare products. When you browse the collection, you'll find non-comedogenic cleansers, serums, moisturizers, and SPF products formulated to help you achieve glowing, healthy skin.

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