Vegetable oils in cosmetics are widely used and thanks to the functional substances and principles contained, with just a few gestures, they are essential for the well-being of the skin of the body, face but also of the hair and nails.
Vegetable oils are precious allies for our beauty and for feeling good and in harmony with our body. Not only do they favor thephysiological balance but they increase the salutogenetic resources (the positive approach to health) of each individual. They are among the oldest plant preparations and can be used for food, cosmetic and healing purposes. The use in cosmetics not only is it very specific and targeted at different personal needs but it is extended to the whole body. But what are the characteristics of these oils? How to best use them?
Vegetable oils: what they are
Vegetable oil is an extract composed mainly of combined fatty acids (saturated, monounsaturated or polyunsaturated) and quantities of unsaponifiable lipids (which cannot undergo hydrolysis). If on the one hand fatty acids influence skin cells, on the other hand unsaponifiables perform various functions: protection as antioxidants, of rebalancing as draining and of stimulation.
Vegetable oils can be mixed with each other or with essential oils or aromatic essences which, in addition to being pleasant on the skin, activate the mood and provide equally pleasant relaxation.
Vegetable oils applied to skin tissue, skin, hair and even nails penetrate easily and are able to carry deep all components and the beneficial substances. This is why they are considered oils with great cosmetic or pharmacological properties.
Cold pressing of vegetable oils
The best method to obtain a vegetable oil in cosmetics is cold pressing. This, in fact, keeps all the valuable constituents and the beneficial properties of the fruit or plant from which the oil comes. The more preparation there is handcrafted and follows the natural cycle and more properties are carefully preserved.
Once purchased, it is always advisable to store the oil in a cool, dry place away from light and heat sources. Some vegetable oils tend to solidify or form sediments at low temperatures but this does not affect their quality.
Beauty in natural cosmetics
There are numerous vegetable oils and each has specific characteristics and peculiarities.
Among the most complete stands out thesweet almond oil with important emollient, soothing and velvety properties. Very useful for fragile, irritated or sensitive skin, it can be easily diluted with other vegetable oils and essences or with honey for even more delicate use.
L'jojoba oil, equally well known, is not very greasy and is suitable for all skin types. It is mainly used for massages combined with essential oils and to laugh shine and volume to the hair.
Particularly delicate is therosehip oil. This oil is rich in essential fatty acids (such as omega 3) which nourish and regenerate the mature skins, devitalized and turned off. Can be used by all skin types; it is an important restructuring anti-aging agent and is also suitable for nails and scalp.
Use on body and face
All these oils bring many benefits to the skin of the face and body. First of all, if used continuously and thanks to the characteristics and properties that distinguish them, they reduce water loss and prevent skin dehydration. This allows the skin to remain better oxygenated and elastic. They are sebum regulators and therefore facilitate the balance of the skin making it healthier. Furthermore, they are absorbed easily and nourish deeply.
Use on hair
The characteristics of vegetable oils are also essential for the well-being of the hair. First, they are able to integrate and regulate lipid components of sebaceous origin. They modify the molecular interactions of keratin which is one of the main components of the hair fibre, favoring a molecular bond which translates in strength and elasticity of hair. And finally they regulate inflammatory processes by promoting cell turnover for decidedly younger hair.
Vegetable oils for well-being
Vegetable oils are also very easy to use. They are recommended regardless of skin type and are very often interchangeable with each other. Despite the individual peculiarities, each oil manages to satisfy multiple skin types and is suitable for multiple uses. One of the tips, in fact, is to alternate them or combine them together. They are also suitable for skin care of very elderly people or children. They can be combined with another oil or diluted with creams for use on the spot, for face or hair masks, for example. Finally, they are ideal for relaxation and aromatherapy massages.
Find out more about scented vegetable oils
