Canola oil is a lightweight, skin-conditioning oil that often flies under the radar in handcrafted skincare—but don’t let its simplicity fool you! Derived from the seeds of the canola plant (Brassica napus), this versatile oil is packed with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, vitamin E, and antioxidants, making it a fantastic choice for nourishing and softening the skin. It has been used for centuries in cooking and skincare, particularly in regions where rapeseed oil (its close relative) has long been valued for its emollient properties.
In soap making, canola oil helps create a creamy, conditioning lather while preventing bars from becoming too hard or brittle. It slows down trace, making it great for intricate swirl designs, and it contributes a mild, silky feel to soaps. While it doesn’t provide the same bubbly lather as coconut or castor oil, it pairs beautifully with those high-lathering oils to create a balanced, moisturizing bar. It’s an affordable, accessible alternative to olive oil, often used in recipes as a cost-effective way to maintain a gentle, skin-loving formula.
For skincare, canola oil is non-comedogenic (rating of 2), meaning it’s unlikely to clog pores but is best suited for dry to normal skin types. Its lightweight texture absorbs easily, making it a great addition to lotions, creams, and body oils. With a high oleic acid content, it deeply hydrates and helps maintain the skin’s moisture barrier. It’s also a popular ingredient in massage oils, as it provides excellent slip without feeling greasy.
Here are a few of our products featuring this ingredient:
