Jojoba oil comes from the seed of the jojoba plant, which grows wild in northwestern Mexico, southern Arizona and southern California. Native Americans have used jojoba for hundreds of years for its healing properties. It is unique among vegetable oils, in that it is chemically very similar to human sebum (the oil produced by the skin). In fact, it is more accurately a liquid wax, rather than an oil. Jojoba oil is an effective moisturizer and softener for the skin, helping to reduce wrinkles and stretch marks, and also to lighten and help heal scars. It has also been shown to be beneficial in treating acne and even more serious skin diseases such as psoriasis. Scientific studies show jojoba oil has a dual moisturizing effect on the skin. Firstly, it forms a non-greasy layer (preventing water-loss through the skin) and secondly it is quickly absorbed into the cells and thus softens the skin. Because it closely resembles human sebum, all skin types accept jojoba oil very well without threat of breakouts or reactions. Even if you have oily skin, you can rest easy, because jojoba oil actually helps to balance your skin's sebum, thus reducing oil production. Jojoba oil also contains high levels of tocopherols (vitamin E), which have an antioxidant effect on the skin.