Jojoba Oil vs Coconut Oil: The Ultimate Verdict 

Jojoba and coconut oil are two of the most popular oils for skincare and haircare – and with good reason.Both are great options to keep your skin hydrated without relying on artificial components that can irritate your skin.

Yet there are key differences that are important to understand before you commit to one or the other for your self-care routine. (For example, each works better with certain skin types.)

In this article, we’ll go over everything related to jojoba oil and coconut oil to provide you with the ultimate verdict. 

Similarities and Differences Between Jojoba and Coconut Oil

The following table compares the properties of jojoba and coconut oil to help determine the best option. (As you can see, it depends on what exactly you’re using each for.)

Feature	Jojoba Oil	Coconut Oil
Moisturizes and hydrates skin	Yes	Yes
Antimicrobial properties	Yes	Yes
Contains antioxidants	Yes	Yes
Anti-inflammatory properties	Yes	Yes
Skin type compatibility	Redness, skin irritation, eczema, rosacea	Sensitive or dry skin
Natural SPF	4	4-5
Potential problems	Might cause a rash or allergic reactions	Might block pores
Easy to make from scratch at home	Yes	Yes

Jojoba oil and coconut oil are very similar. They both can help keep the skin hydrated. Additionally, they have antimicrobial properties, meaning they can help fight acne. 

With that said, ask your dermatologist if you can use coconut oil if you have acne. Remember that they can both clog the pores, which can make it easier to have breakouts if you are not careful. 

While they both have a minimal amount of SPF, neither can take the place of full-strength sunscreen. (If you’re looking to keep all the extra chemicals off your skin, here’s a simple 3-ingredient coconut oil sunscreen recipe you can make at home.)

As you can see, jojoba oil is better for skin conditions such as redness, eczema, and rosacea. On the other hand, coconut oil is better used to keep the skin hydrated.  

Can I Use Jojoba Oil or Coconut Oil On My Face?

Yes, you can use jojoba oil and coconut oil on your face (and on the rest of your skin too). Thanks to their anti-microbial properties, both can help reduce harmful bacteria in the skin. 

However, as mentioned before, be careful with how much you apply since both can clog your pores, increasing the risk of acne.

To prevent or minimize this, my recommendation would be to start by only applying a small dose to your skin the first time. After a couple of minutes, thoroughly remove every trace of it. 

Other Uses For Jojoba Oil and Coconut Oil

Jojoba or coconut oil are not only suitable for hydrating the skin. There are other uses you might want to try out.

Here are some ways you can take advantage of jojoba oil. 

• Cleanser. You can use jojoba oil as a cleanser. If you have oil-based makeup, jojoba can make sure you can take it all out. Afterward, wash your face with a suitable soap. 
• Shaving oil. As you know, razor burn is a real issue, and razors are generally just irritating to skin. Apply some jojoba oil and leave it there for 10-15 minutes before you shave for a smooth surface. 
• Hair treatment. Due to its anti-microbial properties, jojoba oil can help reduce hair loss and dandruff. 
• Cooking oil. Jojoba oil is high in healthy fats, which can help reduce inflammation. 

On the other hand, here are some skincare applications for coconut oil:

• Lip scrub. Coconut oil mixed with some brown sugar and honey can be a great way to create perfect-looking lips. (Here’s a simple and effective coconut oil lip scrub recipe I swear by!)
• Whitening teeth. Oil pulling is when you take a couple of tablespoons of coconut oil and swish it around the mouth. Thanks to its antimicrobial properties, it can help whiten teeth and reduce bad breath. 
• Hair treatment. Coconut oil can also be an excellent way to add shine to your hair. 
• Cooking oil. Coconut oil has medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which some studies indicate can help promote weight loss. 

Can I Use Jojoba Oil Instead of Coconut Oil?

Yes, you can use jojoba oil instead of coconut oil in a 1:1 ratio for skincare or for cooking. However, keep their properties in mind whenever you are making any changes. One option might be better than the other. 

How To Make Jojoba Oil

Jojoba oil might be more challenging than coconut milk since it might be harder to find jojoba seeds. But, if you can find them, the process is very simple. 

1. Get some dry jojoba seeds. 
2. Put the seeds in an oil press. 
3. Purify the oil by running it through a cloth. 

(To be honest, jojoba seeds aren’t easy to find. Generally your best bet is probably to just buy jojoba oil directly.)

How To Make Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is fairly easy to make. The benefit is that you only need a coconut and a food processor. 

Here are the steps to make homemade coconut oil. 

1. Open the coconut to gather the meat. 
2. Place the coconut meat in a food processor. 
3. Add some water and blend for 2-4 minutes until you make coconut milk. 
4. Pour the coconut milk into a pan and cook it on medium heat until the oil separates. 
5. Strain the milk, and now you have coconut oil. 

If you want a more in-depth explainer, here’s a full step-by-step guide to making coconut oil, complete with pictures and video. (You can also buy from this list of trusted coconut oil brands.)

Jojoba Oil and Coconut Oil Storage

Jojoba and coconut oil need to be stored somewhere dark and dry, like a pantry. Storing it where the light might hit it can increase the risk of spoilage. 

You don’t need to store either one in the fridge. 

Remember that coconut oil can become solid at room temperature. So, if you need it liquid, place it in the microwave for a couple of seconds. 

Jojoba Oil Vs. Coconut Oil: The Final Verdict

So, in the end, which is better?

In my opinion, coconut oil is generally a better option if you want to keep your body moisturized. It is easier to make than jojoba oil, and it can help you get shiny hair and beautiful lips. 

However, for those that have skin problems (particularly acne prone), jojoba oil might be a better option. 

And if you’re looking for a great way to incorporate coconut oil into your skincare routine, I’d recommend this easy-to-make DIY coconut oil-based whipped body butter recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions

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