Chia seeds - the latest buzz in beauty

Until recently, this tiny seed was relatively unknown and now there isn't a cafe in town that doesn't offer a breakfast bowl brimming with these tiny powerhouses of goodness. Sarah Simpson discovers why it's now cropping up in skincare.

Chia seeds originate from a desert plant Salvia hispanica (a type of sage in the mint family) in North America where it's said Mayans and Aztecs of ancient times used them as part of their staple diet thanks to their high energy and endurance-promoting qualities. Fast forward to today and skin and hair care brands are harnessing the properties of these miniature black and white seeds which are bursting with Omega-3 fatty acids, fibre, and protein and adding them into their formulations.

The benefits of adding chia seed oil to your skin and hair care regime lie in the powerful antioxidant complex that these seeds offer. It's the perfect choice for those who are seeking a natural alternative in their beauty regime. Expect to see fine lines softened, your skin's moisture barrier improved as well as a luminosity thanks to the silkiness of the oil.  Hair will feel more nourished with increased volume as well as stronger and shinier thanks to the Omega-3.

Here are six to tempt the taste buds:

Sunday Riley Luna Sleeping Oil, $185. Nude Skincare ProGenius Omega Treatment Milk, $102. Antipodes Chia & Kiwi Seed Superfruit Serum, $54.50. Hask Chia Seed Oil Volumizing Shampoo, $15. Sukin Super Greens Nourishing Chia Seed Oil +, $24.50. Goodness Certified Organic Chia Seed Oil, $24.