All you need to know about Avocado Oil

Avocado oil is a widely used ingredient in many skincare products due to its various benefits for the skin.

To obtain avocado oil, the fruit of the avocado tree is harvested when fully ripe. The oil is then extracted from the fruit by cold-pressing its flesh. This process involves using mechanical pressure to squeeze out the oil without the use of heat or chemicals, preserving the oil's nutrients and natural properties.

Constituents of Avocado Oil

Avocado oil contains numerous beneficial compounds for the skin, including:

1. Oleic Acid: This monounsaturated fatty acid is the primary component of avocado oil, making up around 70% of its fatty acid content. Oleic acid is an excellent emollient and is known for its ability to deeply penetrate the skin, making it an effective moisturiser.
2. Vitamins A, D, and E: Avocado oil is rich in these essential vitamins, all of which are crucial for healthy skin. Vitamin A helps to stimulate cell growth, while vitamins D and E protect the skin from damage caused by environmental stressors.
3. Sterolin: This compound helps to reduce inflammation and improve the skin's texture, making it an excellent choice for those with sensitive or dry skin.

Benefits of Avocado Oil for Skincare

Using avocado oil in your skincare routine can provide several benefits for your skin, including:

1. Moisturising: Avocado oil is an excellent natural moisturiser due to its high oleic acid content. It deeply penetrates the skin and helps to maintain its moisture levels, leaving it soft and supple.
2. Anti-aging properties: The antioxidants present in avocado oil, particularly vitamin E, help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, which can cause premature ageing.
3. Anti-inflammatory effects: Avocado oil's anti-inflammatory properties can help to reduce redness, inflammation, and irritation in the skin, making it an excellent option for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin.

References:

1. Lin TK, Zhong L, Santiago JL. Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Barrier Repair Effects of Topical Application of Some Plant Oils. Int J Mol Sci. 2017;19(1):70. Published 2017 Dec 27. doi:10.3390/ijms19010070
2. Huang CC, Wu WB, Fang JY, Chiang HS, Wei YJ. Protective effects of topically applied avocado oil against UV-induced damage in mice. J Formos Med Assoc. 2019;118 Suppl 2:S87-S95. doi:10.1016/j.jfma.2019.07.011
3. Fabbrocini G, Bertona M, Picazo Ó. Topical use of natural oils to improve skin barrier function: a systematic review. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb). 2020;10(6):1085-1103. doi:10.1007/s13555-020-00434-w