Jojoba oil is sometimes used to support the management of eczema (atopic dermatitis) due to its moisturizing and skin barrier-protective properties. Scientifically, jojoba oil is a liquid wax ester derived from the seeds of the Simmondsia chinensis plant. Its composition closely mimics human sebum, making it a popular emollient in skincare. Laboratory studies have shown that jojoba oil has anti-inflammatory properties and may help in wound healing and skin repair by modulating inflammatory responses and promoting collagen synthesis. These effects are generally attributed to the presence of wax esters, vitamin E, and other bioactive compounds in the oil.

However, direct clinical evidence supporting jojoba oil as a treatment for eczema is limited. Most of the support comes from its ability to reduce skin dryness and irritation, which are key components of eczema flare-ups. A few small studies and anecdotal reports describe improvement in symptoms when jojoba oil is used as part of a moisturizing routine, but large-scale, well-controlled clinical trials are lacking. Dermatological guidelines often recommend bland emollients for eczema, and jojoba oil fits this profile, but it is not specifically highlighted in most clinical protocols.

In summary, jojoba oil's use for eczema is partially justified by scientific understanding of its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties, but the direct clinical evidence is weak, meriting a modest evidence rating.