Living with psoriasis often means finding the right combination of treatments to manage symptoms while avoiding unwanted side effects. Some people explore natural remedies alongside their prescribed treatments to help soothe their skin. Grapeseed oil is one product that members of MyPsoriasisTeam have mentioned as a possible option for easing psoriasis symptoms.

Are you living with psoriasis and wondering, “Is grapeseed oil good for your skin?” It helps to know the pros and cons before giving it a try. Like any over-the-counter (OTC) remedy, it’s important to check with your dermatologist or healthcare provider first. Keep in mind that grapeseed oil is not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a treatment for psoriasis — and it hasn’t been proven in large studies to treat the condition.

What Is Grapeseed Oil?

Like canola or olive oil, grapeseed oil is a plant-based oil often used in cooking. It’s made as a byproduct of winemaking — when grapes are pressed to make wine, the seeds are collected and processed to extract grapeseed oil.

Grapeseed oil contains substances found in grapes and wine that may offer health benefits. These include plant-based antioxidants such as phenols and tannins called proanthocyanidins. In laboratory studies, these compounds have been shown to protect cells from damage and may help reduce the risk of certain health conditions, including cancer and diabetes. However, these benefits haven’t been confirmed in large studies in people.

Grapeseed oil is also used in skin and hair products because it’s rich in omega-6 fatty acids and contains a small amount of omega-3s. It’s often applied as a moisturizer to help soften the skin and scalp.

Grapeseed Oil vs. Grapeseed Extract

Grapeseed oil and grapeseed extract are sometimes confused, but they’re not the same. Grapeseed oil is a liquid pressed from the seeds of grapes, while grapeseed extract is made from ground-up grape seeds and is usually sold as a dry powder or in capsules.

The method used to extract grapeseed oil can affect the amount of natural compounds it contains — especially flavonoids, a type of plant pigment known for its antioxidant properties.

Benefits of Grapeseed Oil for Skin

Grapeseed oil may offer some health and skin benefits, although most of the evidence so far comes from studies in cells or animals. Researchers are exploring whether compounds in grapeseed oil might help reduce the risk of certain cancers, such as prostate and colorectal cancer — but more research in people is needed to confirm these effects.

What does grapeseed oil do for the skin? For skin health, grapeseed oil may help in several ways. It contains moisturizing fatty acids and also has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. These features may support skin barrier health, help calm irritation, and promote a more youthful appearance.

Fatty Acids May Fend Off Flare-Ups

Grapeseed oil contains a high amount of polyunsaturated fats, including omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids — especially linoleic acid, a type of omega-6. When consumed, these fatty acids may support skin health by helping maintain the skin’s structure and barrier function, which keeps moisture in and harmful substances out.

Fatty acids also have anti-inflammatory properties that may reduce skin sensitivity and irritation. These effects could be especially helpful for people living with psoriasis, a condition linked to inflammation and changes in the skin’s deeper layers. Although more research is needed, some evidence suggests that fatty acids might help ease psoriasis symptoms or reduce flare-ups.

Proanthocyanidins May Support Immune Health in Psoriasis

Proanthocyanidins are a type of flavonoid — natural plant compounds found in high levels in grapes and grape byproducts like grapeseed oil and extract. These compounds may offer several potential health benefits. Research suggests they have antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties — and they may even help protect the nervous system.

Proanthocyanidins may also play a role in regulating the immune system in ways that could benefit people with psoriasis. Since psoriasis is an autoimmune condition linked to immune system dysfunction, these compounds are of interest to researchers. In a 2022 study on mice, scientists found that proanthocyanidins similar to those in grapeseed reduced the release of inflammatory substances — such as interleukins and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha — that are involved in triggering psoriasis symptoms.

However, because this study was done in animals, more research is needed in humans to know whether these effects apply to people with psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis.

Hydration May Help With Flaky, Dry Skin

Dry, flaky skin is a common challenge for people living with psoriasis. Applying grapeseed oil to the skin may help lock in moisture and ease these symptoms. While grapeseed oil hasn’t been specifically studied for psoriasis, one small study found that grapeseed extract applied to surgical wounds helped speed up healing — suggesting potential skin benefits.

Grapeseed oil is just one of many moisturizers that might help relieve dryness. It may take some trial and error to find the one that works best for you.

Although moisturizing is important, overall skin health also depends on what you eat. A balanced, anti-inflammatory diet — rich in fruits, vegetables, fiber, and healthy fats — may support skin healing and reduce flare-ups from the inside out.

The Pros of Using Grapeseed Oil for Psoriasis

Some people living with psoriasis say grapeseed oil helps ease their symptoms. One MyPsoriasisTeam member shared, “I have been using grapeseed oil, and this has taken my scales to a point of none.”

Some people mix grapeseed oil with other ingredients. “I have found a mix of beeswax, olive oil, grapeseed oil, and a bit of coconut oil makes a nice balm for my spots,” said another member.

In combinations like these, grapeseed oil can act both as a carrier oil — helping other ingredients spread more easily — and as a moisturizer. If you’re thinking about trying a mixture, be sure to ask your dermatologist if it’s likely well tolerated by your skin.

While results vary from person to person, some find that grapeseed oil is a useful addition to their skin care routine. Its benefits include being:

• Readily available, perhaps even in your local supermarket
• Relatively inexpensive, especially compared with some other psoriasis treatments
• Simple to use and apply
• Easy to mix with other oils, creams, or moisturizers
• Mostly colorless and odorless

The Cons of Using Grapeseed Oil for Psoriasis

Grapeseed oil is generally considered safe for most people when used topically or consumed in moderate amounts. However, like any supplement or skin care product, it may carry some risks — especially for certain individuals.

Allergic reactions can happen, even with natural products. Signs of a serious allergic reaction include:

• Hives
• Trouble breathing
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat

You should stop using grapeseed oil and seek medical help right away if you notice these symptoms.

Some people may also experience milder side effects, such as:

• Diarrhea
• Upset stomach
• Dry mouth
• Sore throat
• Cough
• Headache
• Muscle aches

Little is known about the safety of grapeseed oil during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. It's best to avoid new supplements, skin care products, or medications during this time unless your doctor says they're safe.

Grapeseed oil may also interact with certain supplements, including vitamin C or lactobacillus (a common probiotic). Combining these with grapeseed oil could affect blood pressure or interfere with how your body processes healthy gut bacteria.

How To Use Grapeseed Oil for Psoriasis Safely

There are a few ways to try grapeseed oil for psoriasis, but it’s important to check with your dermatologist or healthcare provider first. They can help you decide whether this oil fits safely into your skin care routine — especially if you’re already using prescription treatments or have sensitive skin.

Applying Grapeseed Oil Topically

To use grapeseed oil on your skin, apply a small amount directly to the area affected by psoriasis — as well as the surrounding skin. You don’t need to rinse it off; the oil is meant to absorb into the skin. This may help ease dryness or discomfort.

If the oil doesn’t feel too greasy or irritating, you might consider making it part of your regular skin care routine.

Before using any new product more widely, it’s a good idea to do a patch test. Apply the oil to a small area of skin twice a day for seven to 10 days. If you don’t notice any discoloration, itching, swelling, or other irritation, it’s likely safe for your skin.

Consuming Grapeseed Oil

Ingesting grapeseed oil — either through cooking or as a supplement — may help your body absorb its beneficial fatty acids and antioxidant compounds, such as proanthocyanidins. Some MyPsoriasisTeam members say they take grapeseed oil in this way. One wrote, “I also… take Oregon grapeseed oil supplements and vitamin B in the morning.”

You can take grapeseed oil during a flare or as part of your regular routine. It may also be used alongside topical application. Grapeseed extract, which contains more concentrated compounds, is another option and may be available at health food stores.

If you're trying grapeseed oil or extract for the first time, start with a small dose — such as the lowest amount listed on the product label — and watch for side effects like stomach upset, headaches, or allergic reactions. Always follow package instructions, and check with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure it won’t interfere with any medications or supplements you already take.

Talk With Your Doctor First

Like all supplements, grapeseed oil isn’t regulated by the FDA in the same way as medications and isn’t considered a treatment for psoriasis. If you’re purchasing grapeseed oil, it’s not possible to be certain about its quality. If you’re considering adding grapeseed oil or extract to your routine, ask your doctor for guidance — including whether it’s safe for you and how to choose a reliable product.

Join the Conversation

On MyPsoriasisTeam, people share their experiences with psoriasis, get advice, and find support from others who understand.

Are you thinking about trying grapeseed oil for psoriasis, or do you use it now? Let others know in the comments below.