Walnut Oil for Dry Skin: Rich Care for Elbows, Knees and Hands

Some skin needs more than a light lotion. Elbows that feel rough, shins that flake, knuckles that crack in winter: these spots need something richer. That's where walnut oil comes in.

What makes walnut oil different?

Walnut oil (Juglans regia) is pressed from the walnut kernel. Compared with almond or apricot oil, it's richer and more cushioning, with a deep amber colour and a warm, toasted scent. It stays on the skin's surface a little longer, which makes it a good choice where skin needs extra comfort and protection from dry air.

It's naturally high in polyunsaturated fatty acids, including linoleic acid and some alpha-linolenic acid, which are part of what gives it its rich, nourishing feel.

Why some areas get so dry

Elbows, knees, shins, hands and heels have fewer oil glands than your face or scalp, and they take more friction and exposure. They're often the first places to feel rough in winter or after lots of hand washing. These are the areas where a richer oil makes the most difference.

Where to use walnut oil

• Elbows and knees: massage in after a bath.
• Shins: often the driest part of the body, especially in winter.
• Hands and knuckles: as an evening hand treatment.
• Heels: see our cracked heels guide.
• Cuticles: a drop each night. See our cuticle oil guide.

An evening ritual for dry skin

1. Take a warm (not hot) shower with a gentle, non-foaming wash.
2. Pat skin lightly so it's still damp.
3. Warm a few drops of walnut oil between your palms.
4. Press into dry areas first, then smooth any remaining oil over the rest of your skin.
5. Massage in slow circles until it settles.
6. Wear soft cotton to bed.

A 10-minute weekly treatment

Once a week, give rough areas some extra attention. After a warm bath, gently buff elbows, knees and heels with a soft washcloth. Massage in a generous layer of walnut oil, then wrap with a warm, damp towel for ten minutes. Wipe away any excess. Skin will feel noticeably softer.

Can you use walnut oil on your face?

You can, but it's rich. If your facial skin is very dry, try one drop pressed over your moisturiser at night. For most people, a lighter oil like apricot is a better daily face oil. See how to choose a face oil.

Walnut oil vs body lotion

Lotions add water and a little oil; walnut oil adds a rich, protective layer. On very dry skin, many people like to use both: lotion first, then walnut oil on the driest spots to seal it in.

Storage

Walnut oil is more delicate than almond or apricot, so keep it tightly closed in a cool, dark place and use it within the time on the label. See how to store natural oils.

Safety

Walnut is a tree nut. Avoid it if you have a nut allergy, and patch test before first use. If your dry skin is cracked, bleeding, or very itchy, see a doctor, as it may be eczema or another condition.

Our Walnut Oil is single-ingredient and bottled in amber glass. It's the one to reach for when skin needs deep comfort. Read our winter skin care routine for the full seasonal approach.