There’s a certain excitement that comes with finding something new that immediately earns a permanent spot in your routine. You try it once, notice the difference, and then wonder how it ever wasn’t part of your routine. That’s exactly how most people feel about Abyssinian oil.
So, what is Abyssinian oil? It’s not new, and it’s not experimental, but it’s only recently become a thing in the beauty world. Keep reading to learn where it comes from, how it works, what makes it different from other essential oils, and whether it’s worth adding to your beauty routine.
What Is Abyssinian Oil?
Abyssinian oil comes from the seeds of the Crambe abyssinica plant. This fast-growing oilseed plant belongs to the mustard family and is known for its ability to withstand dry, harsh conditions. It originally belongs to eastern Africa, specifically the Ethiopian Highlands, which were historically known as Abyssinia. That’s where the oil gets its name.
Over time, growers realized the plant does well in other regions as well. Today, it’s also cultivated in parts of southern Europe around the Mediterranean and in South Africa.
One reason this crop is so appealing is that it has a short growing cycle of about three months and doesn’t need large amounts of water. Once the seeds are harvested, the oil is cold-pressed to preserve its lightweight texture and nutrient profile.
What Makes Abyssinian Oil Different From Other Oils?
Abyssinian oil’s molecular composition is what sets it apart. While many carrier oils contain shorter fatty acids that mostly sit on the surface, Abyssinian oil is composed of a long-chain fatty acid called erucic acid. In fact, around 60% of the oil is erucic acid (a type of omega-9 fatty acid rarely found in such high amounts in cosmetic oils), especially in a pure option like this one.
This long-chain structure allows Abyssinian oil to penetrate deeply without leaving a greasy layer on top of the skin or hair. That’s why it feels so light when you apply it. It spreads easily and leaves behind a soft, silky finish that feels more like a serum than an oil.
The oil also contains vitamins A and E. All these elements work together to create a biomimetic effect. In simple terms, Abyssinian oil closely resembles the natural oils produced by the human body. That’s why your skin recognizes it right away and absorbs it without resistance. It’s also why it hydrates so well without clogging pores or causing irritation.
The benefits of Abyssinian oil are so impressive that more and more brands are now using it for skincare, haircare, and makeup products.
Benefits of Abyssinian Oil for Skin
Abyssinian oil is one of those few skincare oils that work for almost everyone. Vitamin A helps with skin renewal and regulates excess oil production, making it suitable for both dry and oily skin types. People with acne-prone skin can also use it since it’s non-comedogenic.
This oil also contains antioxidants and vitamin E to protect your skin from everyday stresses like pollution and dry air. They prevent dullness, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and reduce redness and inflammation. Over time, your skin will look smoother, calmer, and more radiant.
The high omega-9 content helps strengthen the skin’s natural barrier by allowing it to retain moisture better. Another thing people love and purchase Abyssinian oil for is that it sinks into the skin and leaves behind a smooth, non-sticky finish. You won’t feel like you need to blot your skin or wait forever before applying makeup.
Benefits of Abyssinian Oil for Hair
If your hair gets dry, frizzy, or hard to manage, Abyssinian oil can be a game-changer. It adds softness and shine without the flattening effect or greasiness. You only need a few drops to smooth the frizz and give your strands that healthy, glass-hair look.
Abyssinian oil works well on both fine and thick hair because it doesn’t build up easily. It also protects against environmental stress, strengthens the strands, and makes your hair more resistant to breakage and split ends.
Apart from this, this natural oil helps with heat styling. When applied before blow-drying or using hot tools, it forms a light protective layer that reduces moisture loss and heat damage. As a result, your hair styles better, holds its shape longer, and is easier to detangle afterward.
Many men also like it for beards because it conditions the hair and skin underneath. It also has anti-fungal properties that target the yeast causing beardruff.
What Is Abyssinian Oil? Conclusion
If you’ve ever felt frustrated by oils that feel greasy or take forever to absorb, Abyssinian oil is worth trying. It works well for men and women and is easy to use, no matter how basic or advanced your routine is.
Just make sure you patch test if your skin is sensitive, and give your skin or hair time to get used to it before deciding how often you want to use it.
