Table Of Contents:
What is Abyssinian Oil and How is it Extracted?
What’s Inside Abyssinian Oil?
Abyssinian Oil Benefits for Skin
Abyssinian Oil vs. Argan Oil
Does Abyssinian Oil Clog Pores? Is It Good for Acne?
Our Top Picks
Abyssinian oil stands out as an excellent choice for facial oils, particularly for those with oily skin. Keep scrolling to discover why the benefits of Crambe abyssinica seed oil make it a facial oil worth trying.
What is Abyssinian Oil and How is it Extracted?
Abyssinian oil is derived from the seeds of Crambe abyssinica, commonly known as Abyssinian Mustard. Originally native to the Ethiopian highlands and parts of the Mediterranean, this hardy plant can also thrive in other regions. Belonging to the Brassicaceae family, it can reach heights of over 150 cm.
The plant produces small, delicate white flowers that yield tiny, round seeds approximately 1/8 inch in diameter. These seeds are rich in oil, around 35% which is carefully extracted through cold pressing to retain their natural nutrients.
Renowned for its antioxidant properties, Abyssinian oil not only nourishes the skin but also helps extend the shelf life of skincare formulations. It’s lightweight, non-greasy, and usually has a soft yellow hue with a subtle woody scent, making it a versatile and elegant addition to any beauty routine.
What’s Inside Abyssinian Oil?
Abyssinian oil is packed with skin-loving nutrients, including high levels of vitamins A and E. It’s particularly rich in unsaturated C22 omega-9 fatty acids, giving it a thicker, more luxurious feel than oils like Argan, while closely mimicking your skin’s natural oils. These essential fatty acids help maintain the skin’s structure and act as a protective barrier.
One of its standout components is Erucic acid, which makes up over 50% of the oil, the highest concentration among vegetable oils. This monounsaturated, long-chain fatty acid supports cell growth and repair and helps reduce water loss from the skin.
The oil also contains Linoleic acid and Linolenic acid, which hydrate, renew, and protect the skin. These fatty acids work as natural antioxidants and anti-inflammatories, making Abyssinian oil a powerhouse for smooth, healthy, and resilient skin.
Abyssinian Oil Benefits for Skin
Abyssinian oil is incredibly lightweight and absorbs quickly, leaving skin feeling soft, smooth, and radiant.
Its long-chain unsaturated fatty acids help strengthen and protect the skin, forming a barrier that locks in moisture and prevents dehydration. Combined with Vitamin E, these nutrients support skin repair, renewal and provide soothing anti-inflammatory benefits.
Often compared to Argan oil, Abyssinian oil is also popular in hair care for its ability to enhance shine and conditioning without weighing hair down. Its light texture even makes it suitable for use in spray formulations.
Abyssinian Oil vs. Argan Oil
Abyssinian and Argan oils are often compared, especially in the haircare world, but it’s not entirely clear why these two oils are constantly pitted against each other. Both have remarkable properties and work well for skin and hair.
While neither oil is likely to clog pores, Abyssinian oil stands out for oily or acne-prone skin because it contains significantly less oleic acid (around 18% vs. up to 50% in Argan).
Another key difference is Erucic acid: Argan oil has none, while Abyssinian oil is rich in it. This unique fatty acid contributes to cell repair, moisture retention, and overall skin health, making Abyssinian oil our top pick when compared to Argan.
Does Abyssinian Oil Clog Pores? Is It Good for Acne?
Abyssinian oil has a comedogenic rating of 0, which means it’s very unlikely to clog pores. Its lightweight texture allows it to absorb quickly, leaving skin soft without any greasy residue, making it ideal for all skin types, particularly oily and acne-prone skin.
Because its composition closely resembles our natural skin lipids. Abyssinian oil helps regulate sebum production, reducing the risk of clogged pores and acne flare-ups. These qualities make it one of the best plant-based oils to include in a natural skincare routine.
Our Top Picks
1. MODEL OFF DUTY BEAUTY
Model Off Duty Beauty Midnight Zen Sleeping Face Oil ($44) size: 1 oz
Transform your nighttime skincare routine with Midnight Zen Sleeping Face Oil, a luxurious blend designed to rejuvenate your skin as you sleep. This potent oil targets signs of aging by visibly reducing wrinkles, redness, and pores, unveiling a smoother, more youthful complexion with each use.
2. OBAGI MEDICAL
Obagi Medical Daily Hydro-Drops Facial Serum ($110) size: 1 oz
This face serum is formulated with an innovative, moisture-preserving formula that utilizes Isoplentix™ Technology to provide vitamin B3, Abyssinian oil, and hibiscus oil in their purest forms to help soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and support the skin’s barrier.
3. EYE OF HORUS
Eye of Horus Seven Seed Sacred Oil ($59) size: 1.01
The unique, ancient oil infusion combines Moringa, Abyssinian, Marula, and Nigella with Hemp, Pomegranate, and Baobab oil to boost collagen production and fight against fine lines, dark spots, dryness, and inflammation. Enriched with essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants, this soothing remedy will nurture, plump, and enrich the skin back to health.
4. MARA
MARA Evening Primrose + Green Tea Algae Retinol Face Oil ($120) size: 1 oz
This luxurious formula soaks your skin with powerful Algae Extracts, 1.2% clean Retinol, and natural sources of Vitamin A. Supercharge cellular turnover to reveal healthy-looking new cells and soften the signs of aging. The vitamin-rich superhero treatment serum boosts the hydration barrier and visibly improves wrinkles, pores, and uneven texture. It drenches your complexion with all 20 known amino acids and free radical-fighting antioxidants from Fermented Green Tea.
5. ELEMIS
Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Oil ($90) size: 1 oz
This replenishing facial oil helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Formulated with a trio of seaweeds: Padina Pavonica, Golden Seaweed, and Roaring Water Kelp. Your skin will feel renewed and plumped with moisture.
