The carrot, a plant primarily consumed for its root, also possesses cosmetic virtues due to its high content of vitamins and beta-carotene. Its oil macerate is an excellent skin care product for a healthy glow. It provides a natural tanned complexion and revives its radiance. In this article, find all the information you need to know about this ingredient.
Everything you need to know about carrot macerate.
Summary
Published on December 15, 2021, updated on October 4, 2024, by Maylis, Chemical Engineer — 6 min of reading
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The carrot, in a nutshell.
The carrot belongs to the botanical family of Apiaceae (umbellifers). This herbaceous plant is primarily cultivated for its root, which is the edible part. This food is particularly good for health; indeed, the carrot provides the body with essential minerals and vitamins such as vitamins A and C and protects the liver from potential diseases.
Its cultivation dates back several centuries. It is among the plants whose cultivation was recommended in royal estates by Emperor Charlemagne. Domesticated as early as the 10th century in Central Asia, it wasn't until the Renaissance, in the 17th century, that the same occurred in Western countries. This marked the birth of the first fleshy-rooted carrot, known as the "long orange carrot".
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The carrot macerate, definition.
The carrot macerate is obtained by soaking dried carrot roots in vegetable oil, typically sunflower oil. It contains the following species: beta-carotene (provitamin A), polyunsaturated essential fatty acids (linoleic acid), monounsaturated essential fatty acids (oleic acid), saturated essential fatty acids (stearic acid, palmitic acid), triglycerides, phospholipids, xanthine derivatives, lutein.
In terms of its organoleptic characteristics, it is an oily liquid with a light yellow to orange color, a faint hay-like odor, and a dry touch. The carrot macerate is low in comedogenicity, meaning, it does not clog pores. It is sensitive to oxidation and should be stored in a cool place, away from light.
The benefits of carrot macerate for the skin.
When applied topically, the oil macerate of carrot is recognized for the following properties:
The carrot oil macerate helps to revitalize dull and tired complexions. Indeed, its beta-carotene content (pro-vitamin A) provides a healthy glow and brightness to the skin.
It battles oxidative stress and skin aging due to its antioxidant properties. The carrot oil macerate significantly limits the production of oxygenated chemical species such as free radicals. As a reminder, these unstable and highly reactive molecules are generated by various factors such as the sun, pollution, tobacco... They damage a wide range of healthy molecules in the body (DNA, RNA, proteins...), accelerating its aging.
It allows toprevent skin dehydration due to its richness in linoleic acid.
It promotes and extends tanning. Beta-carotene stimulates the synthesis of melanin, a pigment responsible for tanning that protects the skin from the harmful effects of UV rays. Of course, carrot oil macerate alone is not enough to protect the skin and it is crucial to apply a sunscreen before any exposure.
The benefits of carrot macerate for hair.
This ingredient is also recommended for the care of dry and damaged hair. Indeed, its vitamin content gives it regenerative and repairing properties. In addition, its antioxidant virtues bring shine and brightness to dull hair fibers.
Similar to coconut oil, carrot oil macerate is recommended for taming kinky and curly hair; it redefines curls and helps control the volume of thick hair without flattening it.
The contraindications of carrot macerate.
There are no contraindications to the cosmetic use of carrot macerate. It can be used by pregnant women, young children, and infants. Avoid contact with the eyes.
In which skincare products can one find carrot macerate?
Generally, carrot macerate is used in its pure, raw form. However, it can be found in certain skincare products designed for dull skin or for preventing skin aging, such as serums and creams. It is also a component oftanning oils for the body and after-sun lotions to hydrate the skin and maintain a nice tan. It can also be found in certain shampoos, typically used to tame curls.
At Typology, the carrot oil macerate is derived from the maceration of dried carrot roots in sunflower oil. Certified organic, it contains 100% natural origin ingredients. To revive the radiance of your complexion, apply a few drops morning and/or evening on clean, dry skin.
It is also possible to enjoy the benefits of carrot oil macerate with the radiance facial scrub made with rosehip oil. This is a melting gel with micro grains of apricot kernels that unclog pores and promote cellular renewal, for smooth skin, an even and luminous complexion.
Sources:
CASADO J. & al. Anthocyanin profile and antioxidant capacity of black carrots (Daucus carota L. ssp. sativus var. atrorubens Alef.) from Cuevas Bajas, Spain. Journal of Food Composition and Analysis (2014).
PAVLOV A. Plant Cell culture as emerging technology for production of active cosmetic ingredients. Engineering in Life Sciences (2018).
