What is a vegetable oil and why is it essential?
A vegetable oil is an oil extracted from seeds, nuts, fruits or oil-bearing plants. Naturally rich in essential fatty acids (omega-3, 6 and 9), vitamins and antioxidants, it is used in cosmetics, nutrition and natural medicine. Known for its moisturizing, protective and regenerating properties, it is a must for skin, hair and overall health care.
What are the benefits of vegetable oils for skin, hair and health?
1. A natural, deep moisturizer for the skin
- Nourishes and protects the skin barrier, preventing dryness and irritation.
- Provides long-lasting hydration, ideal for dry, sensitive skin.
- Soothes redness, itching and inflammation, especially in cases of eczema or psoriasis.
2. A powerful antioxidant against skin ageing
- Contains vitamins A, E and C, which neutralize free radicals and delay the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Stimulates collagen production, improving skin firmness and elasticity.
- Protects against external aggressors such as pollution and UV rays.
3. An effective solution for oily and blemished skin
- Regulates sebum production, helping to balance combination and oily skin.
- Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, ideal for acne-prone skin.
- Promotes rapid healing, reducing skin marks and imperfections.
4. Nourishing, protective hair care
- Strengthens hair fiber, limiting breakage and split ends.
- Protects hair from external aggressions (pollution, heat, UV rays).
- Adds shine and suppleness, while stimulating hair growth.
5. A natural remedy for massage and relaxation
- Quickly penetrates the skin, perfect for body and muscle massages.
- Helps relieve tension and reduce stress.
- Can be combined with essential oils for targeted action.
6. A valuable source of health nutrients
- Supplies essential fatty acids, beneficial for the brain, heart and joints.
- Helps reduce inflammation by supporting a healthy lipid balance.
- Contributes to better digestion and a healthy metabolism.
7. An asset in the kitchen for a healthy diet
- Provides omega-3 and omega-6, essential for healthy body functions.
- Supports different types of cooking, depending on the nature of the oil (raw or heated).
- Enriches dishes with a subtle, natural flavor, ideal for vinaigrettes and seasonings.
How to use vegetable oil on a daily basis?
1. Face and body care
- Apply with a gentle massage, morning and evening, to moisturize and protect the epidermis.
- Add a few drops to a moisturizer or serum to boost its effectiveness.
- Use as a cleansing oil to effectively remove impurities.
2. Hair and scalp care
- Use as an oil bath before shampooing, to deeply nourish and repair.
- Mix with shampoo or mask to revitalize hair fiber.
- Apply to dry ends for protection and repair.
3. Use in cooking
- Choose oils suitable for cooking(olive oil, rapeseed oil, coconut oil) and others for seasoning(linseed oil, walnut oil, hazelnut oil).
- Add to salads, simmered dishes and vinaigrettes, for a source of good lipids.
- Use instead of butter, for a healthier alternative.
What are the precautions and contraindications of vegetable oils?
- Check compatibility with your skin type, as some oils can be comedogenic.
- Do not overheat sensitive oils, such as linseed or walnut oil, which oxidize easily.
- Store in a cool, dark place to preserve nutritional properties.
- Choose organic and virgin oils to avoid pesticides and chemical additives.
How to choose a quality vegetable oil?
- Cold-pressed extraction, guaranteeing pure, nutrient-rich oil.
- Certified organic, with no chemical additives or solvents.
- Packaged in opaque bottles for better conservation.
- Traceable origin, guaranteeing environmentally-friendly production.
Vegetable oils are available in pharmacies, organic stores and specialized stores, aspure oil for cosmetic care or as edible oil for cooking.