What jojoba oil is
Jojoba oil is pressed from the seeds of the jojoba shrub (Simmondsia chinensis). Chemically it is a liquid wax ester rather than a true triglyceride oil like olive or coconut. That is why it behaves a little differently in soap and why some recipes treat it as an additive rather than a base oil. It is often described as similar to the skin’s own sebum, though you should treat that as a general description rather than a promise of results.
Why soap makers use it
- Conditioning feel. Makers often include it for a smooth, skin-friendly feel.
- Stability. It is known for being slow to go rancid compared with many plant oils, and is usually described as having a long shelf life.
- Possible bar quality benefits. Some makers report a firmer, longer-lasting bar; others find results are modest.
How much to use
Many suppliers and makers suggest somewhere around 5-10% of the total oil weight, with some going higher. Because the oil is relatively expensive, a small percentage is a common choice. Start low and compare bars before committing to a larger share.
When to add it
Jojoba has a very low saponification value, meaning most of it does not react with lye. Many makers therefore add it at trace, after mixing the lye and oils, so that it stays in the bar as a conditioning component rather than being treated as a base oil. It is not a replacement for planning your superfat. See what superfat is in soap making for how lye is calculated, and always check your recipe in a lye calculator.
Cold process vs. melt and pour
Jojoba is mainly discussed for cold process and hot process soap. It is generally not added to melt-and-pour bases in significant amounts, though jojoba beads are sometimes used as a gentle exfoliant there. Follow your base manufacturer’s guidance.
Golden vs. clear jojoba
Golden (unrefined) jojoba retains more color and a mild nutty scent, while clear (refined) jojoba is lighter. In soap the difference is usually small, so choose by budget and the look you want.
Downsides
- It costs more than staple soap oils.
- Using too much may make a bar softer or reduce lather.
- Some makers save it for leave-on products like lotions and balms (see homemade lotion with olive oil for a lotion method), where it stays on the skin longer.
Storage
Keep it in a cool, dark place with the lid closed. Even though it is stable, it is wise to check the supplier’s best-before date. For a broader look at pairing it with other ingredients, see our guide to oils used for soap making.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if I use jojoba oil every day? Jojoba is commonly used on skin, but reactions vary. If you have sensitive skin or allergies, patch test first and stop if irritation develops.
Is jojoba oil safe on eyelids? Jojoba is often used near the eye area in cosmetics, but soap should be kept out of the eyes. If you have concerns, ask a healthcare professional.
How do I make soap with jojoba oil? Prepare a standard cold process recipe from a trusted source, calculate lye with a calculator, and stir jojoba in at trace at a modest percentage.
Which hard oils are best for soapmaking? Coconut, palm, tallow, lard, shea and cocoa butter are common. Jojoba is liquid and not a hard oil.