Quick answer: Despite its name, jojoba oil is not technically an oil at all. It is a liquid wax ester. This unusual structure helps explain why jojoba oil has an exceptionally long shelf life, why it is highly resistant to oxidation and why it feels different from many traditional plant oils.
Wait... jojoba oil isn't actually an oil?
It sounds surprising, but jojoba oil is not technically an oil at all.
Jojoba is commonly called an oil because it is extracted and used in a similar way to other plant oils. However, technically speaking, jojoba is a liquid wax ester rather than a traditional oil.
Most plant oils — including olive, sunflower and coconut oil — are made up primarily of compounds called triglycerides.
Jojoba is different.
Around 97% of pure jojoba is made up of liquid wax esters, making it one of the only commonly used skincare ingredients with this composition.
This unique molecular structure is what makes jojoba different from almost every other plant oil used in skincare.
What is a liquid wax ester?
A liquid wax ester is a naturally occurring molecule made from long-chain fatty acids and long-chain fatty alcohols joined together by an ester bond.
While the chemistry sounds complex, this unique structure is what makes jojoba so unusual in the plant world and helps explain why it behaves differently from most plant oils.
The liquid wax esters found in jojoba are remarkably similar to some of the wax esters found in human sebum, the protective substance naturally produced by our skin.
We'll explore this connection in more detail in our guide to Why Jojoba Oil Mimics Human Sebum Better Than Other Oils.
Why does this make jojoba different?
Exceptional stability
Unlike most plant oils, jojoba's liquid wax ester structure is naturally resistant to oxidation.
This gives jojoba exceptional stability, a naturally long shelf life and greater resistance to going rancid than many traditional plant oils.
Jojoba is also less sensitive to heat-related degradation than many traditional plant oils, helping preserve its properties over time.
This stability is one reason pure jojoba oil has remained popular for decades.
A liquid wax, not a solid wax
Although jojoba is technically a wax, it remains liquid at room temperature because its wax esters are composed primarily of long-chain monounsaturated fatty acids and alcohols.
This unusual characteristic gives jojoba its distinctive lightweight texture and helps explain why it feels different from many traditional plant oils.
A distinctive skin feel
Jojoba's unique molecular structure contributes to the silky, lightweight feel it is known for.
Rather than feeling thick or heavily coated, jojoba tends to absorb comfortably into the skin.
Jojoba vs traditional plant oils
| Feature | Jojoba oil | Most plant oils |
| Technical classification | Liquid wax ester | Triglyceride oil |
| Resistance to oxidation | High | Generally lower |
| Shelf stability | Excellent | Varies by oil |
| Prone to going rancid | Less prone | More prone |
| Feel on skin | Lightweight and silky | Varies by oil |
Our favourite Australian jojoba oil
Biome Be.UNITY 100% Australian Jojoba Oil
Best for: minimalist skincare, sensitive skin and multi-purpose everyday use.
Why it stands out:
- 100% pure cold-pressed jojoba oil
- Australian grown in Queensland
- No synthetic fragrance or fillers
- Reusable glass bottle
- Suitable for face, body, hair and scalp
- Vegan, cruelty free and palm oil free
★★★★★
“I've tried other jojoba oils and came back to this one. There really is a difference.”
Unlike traditional plant oils, pure jojoba oil is naturally rich in liquid wax esters, helping give it its exceptional stability and versatility across face, body, scalp and hair care.
Frequently asked questions
Is jojoba oil actually an oil?
Technically, no. Jojoba oil is primarily made up of liquid wax esters rather than traditional plant oil triglycerides.
Why is jojoba called an oil if it is actually a wax?
Jojoba is commonly called an oil because it is extracted and used in a similar way to other plant oils. However, technically speaking, jojoba is a liquid wax ester rather than a traditional oil.
What are liquid wax esters?
Liquid wax esters are naturally occurring compounds made from long-chain fatty acids and long-chain fatty alcohols joined together by an ester bond. They are responsible for many of jojoba oil's unique properties.
Why does jojoba oil last so long?
Jojoba oil is naturally resistant to oxidation compared with many traditional plant oils, helping give it a longer shelf life and making it less prone to going rancid.
Is jojoba wax ester the same as jojoba oil?
Yes. When people talk about jojoba oil, they are usually referring to the liquid wax ester extracted from jojoba seeds.
Do jojoba esters clog pores?
Jojoba esters are generally considered non-comedogenic and unlikely to clog pores. Read more in our guide to Does Jojoba Oil Clog Pores?.
What are jojoba esters used for?
Jojoba esters are widely used in skincare, haircare and cosmetic products because they provide lightweight moisture, excellent stability and a silky skin feel. They are commonly found in facial oils, moisturisers, cleansers, lip care products and hair treatments.
Related reads
Why Jojoba Oil Mimics Human Sebum Better Than Other Oils.
Why Is Jojoba Oil So Good for Skin?
What Makes the Best Jojoba Oil and How to Choose One in Australia?
Jojoba Oil vs Rosehip Oil: Which Facial Oil Is Best for Your Skin?
