Although some people are convinced soybean oil clogs pores, most people use it to improve their skin’s health. So, who should and who shouldn’t use it? In this article, we will go through the advantages of soybean oil for the skin, how to include it in your skin care regimen, and some safety concerns to keep in mind. Keep reading!
Soybean oil interacts easily with the skin surface as it is rich in vitamin E and essential fatty acids (2). It also helps enhance skin quality and appearance. Let us take a look at the skin benefits soybean oil offers. Keep reading.
Benefits Of Soybean Oil For Skin
1. Helps With Moisture Retention
Applying soybean oil topically helps hydrate the skin from within. It penetrates the skin’s top layers and seals moisture to prevent water loss. In a study, applying soybean oil was found to decrease the transepidermal water loss of forearm skin and promote moisture retention (3).
2. Helps Repair The Skin Barrier
The stratum corneum (the uppermost layer of the skin) acts as a protective barrier against environmental damage. Any disruption of this layer damages the skin. Applying soybean oil to skin is found to improve the skin barrier function due to its soy phytosterol content (3). Another study suggests that applying formulations with soy phytosterols (naturally occurring compounds) may also help in the recovery of skin barrier function (4).
3. Protects Against UV-B Rays
Soybean oil acts as a natural sunscreen with a UV-B filter that reduces skin photodamage. This benefit is attributed to the presence of polyunsaturated fatty acids and vitamin E (5). Its antioxidant properties fight free radicals that cause sun damage and protect the skin from inflammation (6). Soybean oil may help treat irritation and burns caused by sun damage. It protects the skin from UVB with SPF equivalent to 10.
4. May Reduce Signs Of Premature Aging
As per a study, the isoflavones in soybeans may prevent signs of premature skin aging in postmenopausal women (7). Topical application of the oil may reduce wrinkles and fine lines. However, more information is warranted in this regard. These are the ways soybean oil can benefit your skin. But how can you use it?
How To Use Soybean Oil On Skin?
1. As A Moisturizer
Pat 2 to 3 drops of the oil on your skin with your fingertips. No need to rinse it off later. Repeat once every day.
2. As A Sealant
Pat 2 to 3 drops of soybean oil on your face after applying your regular cleanser, serum, or moisturizer. It helps carry other essential oils/products deep into the skin.
Tip: Applying soybean oil to your skin should be the last step in your skincare routine. Any product with smaller molecules will not be able to penetrate the larger molecules of soybean oil.
Who Can Use It?
Using soybean oil benefits people with dry and combination skin. However, the oil is not recommended for those with oily skin as it may clog skin pores (8). Soybean oil is often considered safe and non-toxic. However, you have to follow safety precautions to prevent any adverse effects.
Safety Precautions To Follow While Using Soybean Oil For Skin
Do a patch test before using soybean oil on your skin if you are allergic to soybean derivatives. Avoid using the oil on infants as it may cause allergic reactions. Also, soybeans are often genetically modified. Hence, look for organic sources.Never apply it to acne-prone skin either on the face or the back. Is soybean oil better than olive oil? Both soybean and olive oils are nutritious. Soybean oil has a higher content of polyunsaturated fats and vitamin K. Olive oil has a higher content of monounsaturated fats and vitamin E. You should choose either oil as per your preference (2), (9). Which is better: coconut oil or soybean oil? Studies indicate that coconut oil may be healthier because soybean oil may have a detrimental effect on metabolic health (10), (11). Is soybean oil good for lips? Yes, soybean contains essential nutrients that may keep your lips hydrated and soft.
