Natural oils: Ecological and versatile solutions
Natural oils have become essential in the field of cosmetics for their benefits on the skin and their ecological nature. Extracted from plants, fruits and seeds, they offer a healthy alternative to chemical products. Rich in essential nutrients such as vitamins, fatty acids and antioxidants , they deeply nourish the skin while protecting it. In addition, their environmentally friendly production and their ability to easily integrate into various care routines make them versatile and sustainable solutions . This article explores the various types of natural oils, their multiple applications and how to incorporate them into your daily routine for optimal, planet-friendly hydration.
I. What is a natural oil?
Natural oils are true treasures of nature, used for centuries for their many virtues. Natural oils are pure extracts from plants, fruits and seeds. Unlike synthetic oils, they do not contain added chemicals, making them particularly beneficial for the skin and environmentally friendly .
1. Natural oil extraction methods
There are several methods of extracting natural oils, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The main methods include cold pressing, steam distillation and maceration.
Cold Press : This method involves extracting oil from seeds, fruits or nuts by mechanically pressing them at low temperatures. Cold pressing is one of the purest and most nutrient-friendly methods because it does not involve heating, which could degrade sensitive compounds. This method preserves the vitamins, fatty acids and antioxidants present in plants , thus providing an oil rich in benefits for the skin and hair.
Steam Distillation : Used primarily to extract essential oils, this method involves passing water vapor through plants. The water vapor heats the plants, which releases the volatile and aromatic compounds. The steam loaded with essential oils is then cooled and condensed, allowing the oil to be recovered in liquid form. Steam distillation is particularly effective at extracting aromatic compounds from plants, but it can also degrade some heat-sensitive nutrients.
Maceration : Maceration is a technique where plants are immersed in a base oil (such as olive oil or sunflower oil) for an extended period of time, usually several weeks. Bioactive compounds from the plants are transferred to the base oil, creating an infused oil that combines the properties of the plant and the base oil. This method is often used to create medicinal oils or massage oils with soothing and healing properties.
2. Different categories of oils
Natural oils are divided into several categories, each with specific uses and properties. The three main categories are essential oils, vegetable oils and macerated oils.
Essential oils
Essential oils are concentrated extracts of aromatic plants. They are obtained mainly by steam distillation or sometimes by cold pressing (for citrus fruits). Essential oils are extremely potent and contain the volatile aromatic compounds of plants, giving them unique therapeutic properties. They are often used in aromatherapy for their beneficial effects on the body and mind.
Essential oils are known for their antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, relaxing and revitalizing properties. However, due to their high concentration, they should be used with caution and usually diluted in a carrier oil before applying to the skin to avoid irritation or allergic reactions. Essential oils are also used for their pleasant fragrances and their abilities to influence mood and emotions.
Vegetal oils
Vegetable oils are extracted from seeds, nuts or fruits. They are rich in vitamins, essential fatty acids and antioxidants , making them particularly beneficial for skin and hair care. Unlike essential oils, vegetable oils can be applied directly to the skin without requiring dilution.
Vegetable oils are used to moisturize, nourish and protect the skin. They help maintain the skin's hydrolipidic balance , strengthen the skin barrier and prevent dehydration . Certain vegetable oils have specific properties, such as regulating sebum production for oily skin, regenerating cells for mature skin or reducing inflammation for sensitive skin .
Vegetable oils can also be used for hair care. They nourish and repair damaged hair, protect it against external aggressions and improve its shine and softness. Certain plant oils also stimulate hair growth and prevent hair loss by strengthening hair follicles.
Macerated oils
Macerated oils are created by infusing plants into a base oil. This method allows the beneficial properties of the infused plants to be extracted, while retaining the nourishing qualities of the base oil. Macerated oils are often used for their medicinal and soothing properties.
Macerated oils combine the benefits of plants and base oil, creating products with unique and diverse properties. They can be used to treat various skin conditions, such as irritations, inflammations, scars or stretch marks. Macerated oils are also popular for massages, thanks to their relaxing and regenerating properties .
3. Uses of natural oils
Natural oils are extremely versatile and can be incorporated into many skin and hair care routines. Their use varies depending on the specific needs of each individual and the unique properties of each oil.
Skincare : Natural oils can be used as moisturizers, serums, makeup removers , or targeted treatments for various skin concerns. They are particularly effective in deeply hydrating, nourishing the skin and protecting it against environmental aggressions . Oils can also be used to treat specific skin conditions, such as acne, eczema, scars or age spots.
Hair Care : Natural oils are also great for hair care. They can be used as hair masks, conditioning oils, or scalp treatments. Natural oils help nourish and repair damaged hair, improve shine and softness, and prevent scalp problems like dryness, dandruff, or hair loss.
Aromatherapy and well-being : Essential oils, in particular, are used in aromatherapy for their beneficial effects on mood and mental health. Essential oils can be diffused into the air, added to a bath, or applied to the skin (diluted in a carrier oil) to benefit from their relaxing, revitalizing, or energizing properties .
Medicinal treatments : Certain natural oils are used for their medicinal properties. They can be applied to the skin to treat conditions such as burns, cuts, irritations or muscle pain. Natural oils have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal and healing properties , making them useful for many therapeutic uses.
II. The benefits of natural oils for the skin
Natural oils offer a multitude of benefits for the skin thanks to their hydrating, nourishing, protective and soothing properties. Their composition, rich in vitamins, essential fatty acids and antioxidants, makes them ideal allies for healthy, glowing skin .
1. Deep hydration
Natural oils are particularly effective in deeply hydrating the skin. Their ability to easily penetrate the layers of the skin provides long-lasting hydration and protection against dehydration .
Natural oils act by strengthening the skin's lipid barrier. This barrier improves water retention and protects it against external aggressions. By strengthening this barrier, natural oils help prevent transepidermal water loss , maintain hydration and make skin more supple and soft .
Additionally, natural oils contain essential fatty acids, such as omega 3, 6 and 9, which are essential for skin health. These fatty acids help restore the skin barrier, reduce inflammation and improve skin elasticity .
Oils suitable for hydration
Certain natural oils are particularly recognized for their moisturizing properties . For example, jojoba oil is ideal for combination to oily skin because of its ability to balance sebum production. Argan oil, rich in vitamin E and fatty acids, is perfect for dry and mature skin. Coconut oil, thanks to its high content of saturated fatty acids, is very effective for very dry and dehydrated skin.
2. Nutrient intake
Natural oils are true concentrates of essential nutrients for the skin. They provide vitamins, fatty acids and antioxidants that nourish and protect the skin.
Vitamins
Vitamins found in natural oils help with cell regeneration, protect against free radicals and improve skin texture.
Vitamin A , for example, promotes cell turnover and reduces scars and spots. Vitamin E , a powerful antioxidant, protects the skin from external aggressions and prevents premature aging. Vitamin C , present in certain oils, stimulates collagen production and brightens the complexion.
Essential fatty acids
Essential fatty acids, such as omega 3, 6 and 9, are essential for skin health. They strengthen the skin barrier, reduce inflammation and improve skin elasticity.
Omega 3 and 6 are particularly important because the human body cannot produce them. They must be provided through food or through skincare products. Oils rich in omega 3 and 6 help soothe sensitive and redness-prone skin, while omega 9, found in oils like olive oil, help maintain skin suppleness.
Antioxidants
The antioxidants found in natural oils protect the skin against damage caused by free radicals and oxidative stress, thereby delaying skin aging . They also help repair damage caused by UV and pollution.
Antioxidant-rich oils, like argan oil and sunflower oil, are particularly beneficial for protecting and repairing the skin . They help maintain healthy, luminous and youthful skin.
3. Anti-inflammatory and soothing properties
Many natural oils have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that are beneficial for irritated skin or skin prone to conditions like eczema or psoriasis.
Natural oils rich in omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, such as hemp oil, are particularly effective in reducing inflammation and soothing irritated skin. These fatty acids help calm redness, itching and irritation , improving skin comfort .
The soothing properties of natural oils
Certain oils, such as calendula oil, are known for their soothing and healing properties. They are ideal for sensitive and irritated skin, and can be used to treat skin conditions like sunburn, small cuts and irritations.
Macerated oils, which combine the properties of infused plants and the base oil, are also very effective in soothing and regenerating the skin. They are often used for relaxing massages or to treat specific areas of the body requiring special attention.
4. Protection against external aggression
Natural oils form a protective barrier on the skin that helps prevent moisture loss and protect against harmful environmental elements. This lipid barrier is essential to keep the skin healthy and to prevent damage caused by external factors.
These oils rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids will help repair and regenerate the skin. They help heal wounds, reduce scars and improve skin texture. They are also beneficial for skin damaged by the sun or severe weather conditions.
III. Eco-Friendly and Versatile Applications of Natural Oils
Natural oils are known for their versatility and eco-friendliness. They can be integrated into various skin, hair and body care routines, while respecting the environment. Their production, when carried out sustainably, has a lower environmental impact compared to that of synthetic cosmetic products.
1. Ecological innovations in natural oils
Natural oils can be produced sustainably, respecting the natural cycles of plants and crops. Extraction methods like cold pressing and maceration are environmentally friendly and do not involve the use of harmful chemicals.
Regenerative agriculture
Some companies are adopting regenerative agriculture techniques that go beyond traditional organic practices. These techniques aim to restore soil health, increase biodiversity and sequester atmospheric carbon. Regenerative agriculture can include practices like composting, crop rotation, rotational grazing, and the use of cover crops.
Packaging innovations
Packaging innovations focus on reducing waste and using eco-friendly materials . Natural oils are often packaged in recyclable or reusable packaging, helping to reduce plastic waste . Their pure composition means they do not release harmful chemicals into the environment during use or breakdown.
For example, some companies are experimenting with compostable packaging, oil refills and systems for returning glass bottles for reuse. These innovations aim to minimize environmental impact while meeting the needs of environmentally conscious consumers.
2. Support for local communities
Many natural oils are produced by local communities in developing countries. By choosing fair trade products, consumers can support these communities and encourage sustainable agricultural practices. This also contributes to the preservation of local ecosystems and the promotion of biodiversity.
IV. Integrate natural oils into your routine
Incorporating natural oils into your skincare routine transforms the health and appearance of your skin and hair. To maximize the benefits of these oils, you need to know your specific needs and how to use them correctly.
1. Identify your skin’s needs
Dry skin : Dry skin needs intense hydration to remain supple and avoid feelings of tightness. Plum oil, rich in essential fatty acids and vitamin E , is ideal for deeply nourishing and hydrating . Its light texture penetrates quickly, leaving the skin soft and velvety without feeling greasy.
Oily skin : Oily skin benefits from lightweight oils that do not clog pores and help regulate sebum production. Hazelnut oil is perfect for this skin type. Light and non-comedogenic, it balances sebum production and provides hydration without weighing down the skin.
Combination skin : Combination skin requires a balance between hydration and oil control. Hazelnut oil, thanks to its light and balancing properties, hydrates dry areas without causing excess sebum in oilier areas. It also helps tighten pores and improve skin texture .
Sensitive skin : Sensitive skin requires soothing, non-irritating oils to calm irritation and redness. Sunflower oil, with its anti-inflammatory properties and high vitamin E content , is gentle and soothing. It hydrates the skin while reducing inflammation and redness.
Mature skin : Mature skin benefits from oils rich in antioxidants and fatty acids, which help fight the signs of aging and regenerate the skin. Plum oil, with its high concentration of vitamin E and antioxidants, is excellent for its anti-aging and regenerating properties . It helps reduce wrinkles and improve skin elasticity.
Certain skin problems require targeted treatments. For example, for scars, dark spots or acne, there are specific oils known for their beneficial effects on these conditions.
2. Daily routine
To fully benefit from the benefits of natural oils, it is important to properly integrate them into your daily skin care routine.
Morning: Apply a light layer of oil to clean, slightly damp skin to seal in moisture and prepare skin for the day . Choose a light oil that absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue.
Evening: After cleansing, apply a nourishing and regenerating oil to help skin repair itself overnight . Oils rich in vitamins and antioxidants are ideal for this time of day, as they work during the skin's nighttime regeneration cycle.
Weekly Treatment: In addition to daily use, incorporate weekly treatments like hair masks or oil massages for deep care. These weekly rituals provide additional benefits and reinforce the effects of daily care.
3. Tips for better absorption
To maximize the benefits of natural oils, it is important to apply them correctly so that they are well absorbed by the skin.
Apply to damp skin : Applying oil to slightly damp skin improves absorption. Water helps oils penetrate deeper into the skin, increasing their effectiveness. After cleansing your face, pat it with a towel to remove excess water, but leave it still slightly damp before applying the oil.
Use in combination with hydrosols : Hydrosols, or floral waters, will be sprayed on the skin before applying the oil. Hydrosols add an extra layer of hydration and can enhance the properties of oils. For example, a rose hydrosol can soothe the skin before applying a nourishing oil.
Light heating : Lightly heating the oil in your hands before applying it will improve its absorption and make application more pleasant. Rub a few drops of oil between your palms to warm it before spreading it on your face or body. The heat helps open the pores, allowing oil to penetrate more easily.
V. Specific oils and their benefits
To better understand the impact and benefits of natural oils, let's look at some specific oils and their unique properties.
1. Plum oil
Rich in vitamin E and antioxidants: Plum oil contains high levels of vitamin E and antioxidants , which protect the skin from environmental damage and free radicals .
Essential fatty acids: Its composition of omega-9 and omega-6 fatty acids contributes to deep and lasting hydration.
Light and non-comedogenic: Its light texture penetrates quickly without clogging pores.
Benefits:
Intense hydration : It deeply nourishes the skin, making it soft and supple.
Anti-aging effect : Thanks to its antioxidants, it reduces the signs of aging and improves the elasticity of the skin.
Revitalizing : Its regenerating properties restore radiance to the skin, leaving it luminous and revitalized.
2. Hazelnut oil
Non-comedogenic: Hazelnut oil is light and does not clog pores, ideal for oily and acne-prone skin.
Rich in fatty acids: Contains omega-9 and linoleic fatty acids which are essential for hydration and protection of the skin.
Astringent properties: Helps tighten pores and refine skin texture.
Benefits:
Sebum Regulation : Helps balance sebum production, reducing excess shine and breakouts.
Hydration and Balance : Provides lightweight hydration while maintaining balance for combination and oily skin.
Improved skin texture : Its astringent properties contribute to smoother skin and less visible pores.
3. Sunflower oil
Rich in Vitamin E: Sunflower oil is an excellent source of vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that protects the skin from damage caused by free radicals.
Essential fatty acids: Contains omega-6 fatty acids which are crucial for skin barrier health.
Anti-inflammatory properties: Helps reduce inflammation and skin irritation.
Benefits:
Hydration and protection : Forms a protective barrier on the skin, helping to retain moisture and protect against external aggressions.
Soothing irritation : Its anti-inflammatory properties help calm redness and irritation, improving skin comfort.
Improved skin health : Thanks to its fatty acids and vitamins, it improves the texture and elasticity of the skin, making it healthier and brighter.
