What is sesame oil and why is it so popular?
Sesame oil is extracted from the seeds of the sesame plant (Sesamum indicum), cultivated for thousands of years for its nutritional and medicinal properties. Rich in essential fatty acids (omega-6 and omega-9), natural antioxidants (sesamolin and sesamin) and vitamin E, it is recognized for its moisturizing, regenerating and protective properties. Used in cosmetics for skin and hair, as well as in Ayurvedic medicine and cooking, it is a staple of natural skincare and Asian gastronomy.
What are the benefits of sesame oil for skin, hair and health?
1. A highly nourishing oil for the skin
- Protects and strengthens the skin barrier, preventing dryness.
- Deeply moisturizes without leaving a greasy film, ideal for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
- Soothes irritation, redness and inflammation, especially in cases of eczema or dermatitis.
2. A powerful antioxidant to combat skin ageing
- Contains polyphenols and vitamin E, which neutralize the free radicals responsible for premature aging.
- Improves skin elasticity, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Protects skin against external aggressors (pollution, UV rays, oxidative stress).
3. An ally for oily, blemish-prone skin
- Regulates sebum production, helping to balance combination and oily skin.
- Has antibacterial and antifungal properties, helping to purify the skin.
- Promotes rapid healing, reducing acne marks and other skin imperfections.
4. Fortifying and revitalizing hair care
- Nourishes dry, brittle hair, restoring strength and shine.
- Stimulates hair growth by improving blood circulation to the scalp.
- Protects hair from external aggressors such as pollution and UV rays.
5. An excellent massage and relaxation treatment
- Quickly penetrates the skin, perfect for Ayurvedic and sports massages.
- Helps relax muscles and joints, reducing tension and pain.
- Used to massage the scalp, it calms stress and promotes restful sleep.
6. Healthy, tasty cooking oil
- Rich in unsaturated fatty acids, it contributes to a healthy lipid balance.
- Withstands high-temperature cooking, ideal for Asian dishes and stir-fries.
- Adds a lightly toasted, fragrant flavor, perfect for vinaigrettes and marinades.
7. Support for cardiovascular and metabolic health
- Helps reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) and increase good cholesterol (HDL).
- Regulates blood pressure, reducing the risk of hypertension.
- Helps manage stress and anxiety, thanks to its relaxing effect.
How to use sesame oil on a daily basis?
1. Skin and face care
- Apply with a gentle massage, morning and evening, to moisturize and protect the epidermis.
- Mix with a moisturizer or serum to reinforce its anti-aging action.
- Use as a make-up remover oil to effectively remove impurities and make-up.
2. Hair and scalp care
- Use as an oil bath before shampooing, to deeply nourish and repair hair.
- Add a few drops to conditioner or hair mask.
- Apply to dry ends for a protective, softening effect.
3. Use in cooking
- Perfect for Asian dishes, marinades and sauces, thanks to its distinctive flavor.
- Use as a seasoning to enrich salads and grilled vegetables.
- Can replace other oils in pastry recipes, for a softer texture.
4. Massage and well-being
- Used for body massage, it nourishes the skin and relaxes muscles.
- Ideal for Ayurvedic self-massage, particularly on the scalp and joints.
- Applied to the feet before bedtime, it promotes deep, restorative sleep.
What are the precautions and contraindications of sesame oil?
- Sesame allergy: avoid for people allergic to sesame seeds.
- Consume in moderation, as it is rich in omega-6s, which must be balanced with omega-3s.
- Store away from light and heat to prevent oxidation.
- Choose cold-pressed oil to benefit from all its nutritional and cosmetic properties.
How to choose quality sesame oil?
Cold-pressed, guaranteeing a pure, nutrient-rich oil.
Organic origin, free from pesticides and chemical solvents.
Packaged in opaque bottles to protect its light-sensitive antioxidants.
Choose between virgin and toasted oil, depending on use (virgin for skincare, toasted for cooking).
Sesame oil is available in pharmacies, organic stores and specialized stores, as virgin oil for skincare or as edible oil for cooking.
