What Is Emu Oil (And How Can It Bring Your Skin Back To Life)?

Oils are a big part of current beauty routines. Whether you are looking for healthier hair or hoping to clear up your skin, adding in the right oils can completely transform your beauty routine. Lately, TikTok has been raving about face oils, recommending everything from Marula oil to Rosehip oil.

With so many different oil types out there, it can be hard to figure out what's best for your skin. You've likely heard of argan oil and coconut oil in beauty products, but there is another oil on the market that you may not have heard of before. Emu oil comes from the emu, a big, flightless bird. And while they may not be able to fly, their fat contains some pretty good stuff that has a number of beneficial properties. Farmers who raise emus use their fat to create an oil that has been praised as transforming skin — but does it actually work?

Emu oil works similarly to a mineral oil by moisturizing the skin, per WebMD. But unlike so many oils that promise hydration and moisture, emu oil may be a step above due to its fast-acting absorption properties. In fact, emu oil contains smaller particles than other oils, which allows the oil to absorb deeper and faster into the skin, per Healthline. When produced organically, emu oil can work really well, but it is important to note that emu oil is not cruelty-free, and you want to make sure the manufacturer uses the emu only for the fat and not for other things, like the meat and skin.

The best part about emu oil is that it can fix a multitude of skin issues. According to Dr. Hadley King, MD, FAAD, a New York City-based dermatologist (via Byrdie), emu oil is great for dry skin as it keeps it hydrated, but it also works to lower inflammation, prevent wrinkles, and skin aging.

Emu oil has a lot of benefits — other than helping with the skin, it can also help with arthritis and heal wounds, per Byrdie. But if you are hoping to bring your skin back to life, you'll want to use emu oil topically rather than orally. Some products contain emu oil already, but if you purchase straight emu oil, you can either mix it with your moisturizer and apply it to your skin that way, or apply it directly to your skin as an added step in your routine.

Dr. Hadley King recommends using a pure emu oil, such as those offered by Platinum Skincare or by Leven Rose. Another popular option is the InstaNatural Emu Facial & Body Oil, which can help with your skin, but can also help strengthen your nails, alleviate joint pain, and lessen the appearance of scars and stretch marks. While emu oil may not be a lifesaver for everyone (it can be known to clog pores), it can be a great solution if you are struggling with your skin.