How to use pequi oil?

Suitable for all hair types, the pequi oil is frequently used to formulate hair care products or to maintain hair length. Rich in fatty acids, it has moisturizing and softening properties, beneficial for both hair and scalp. Moreover, the piqui oil contains numerous antioxidants, allowing it to protect hair fibers from oxidative stress, a factor that can degrade their quality and pigmentation and promote hair loss. Lastly, this vegetable oil has a soothing effect and can influence various aspects of inflammation.

How to use pequi oil on hair?

• Pequi oil can be applied along the lengths.

  Most often, piqui oil is used on the lengths of hair, with the aim of hydrating them and improving their texture and shine. Like most vegetable oils, it is beneficial for dry ends or those lacking vitality. Thus, to take care of your hair, you can apply a little piqui oil from mid-lengths to ends once a week. A few drops on your entire hair are enough, as an excessive amount may unnecessarily weigh down your hair. Then, let the treatment sit for about fifteen minutes or overnight before proceeding to your shampoo.

  Piqui oil can also benefit individuals with textured hair, that is, hair that is curly, wavy, or frizzy. Indeed, by enhancing the visco-elastic properties of the fibers, it can help to define curls and give them a more dynamic appearance. It is primarily recommended to slightly dampen the lengths of the hair. Then, place a few drops of piqui oil in the palm of your hands and rub them together to warm the oil before distributing it through your hair. Strand by strand, gently press your curls with your hands, starting from the tips and moving upwards, following the "scrunching" method. Finally, you can dry your hair by carefully wrapping it in a towel or using a hairdryer that emits cool air.

• The piqui oil can be used on the scalp.

  Although this use is less common, it is possible to apply a few drops of pequi oil to the scalp in case of itching or localized dryness. Then gently massage your scalp to allow the oil to penetrate. Moisturizing and anti-inflammatory, this vegetable oil also has the advantage of having a relatively dry touch. However, it is still recommended to shampoo within the hour or the next morning, especially if your scalp tends to become oily quickly or if you have fine hair.

The pequi oil can also be used for skincare. Thanks to its high oleic acid content, a fatty acid that makes up nearly 70% of its biochemical composition, pequi oil can strengthen the hydrolipidic film and prevent skin dehydration. It also has an interesting antioxidant action that can slow down photoaging and protect the skin from oxidative stress. It's also worth noting that several studies have shown that pequi oil can be beneficial for minor redness or small cuts, due to its soothing and healing effects. Lastly, it appears to have useful antibacterial activity for purifying the skin. Thus, pequi oil proves to be a versatile vegetable oil, suitable for multiple uses.

How to use pequi oil on the skin?

• Pequi oil can be applied to the face.

  Used alone or mixed with other plant oils, piqui oil can be utilized to hydrate, nourish, and protect facial skin from oxidative stress. Just a few drops are enough to seal in moisture. Depending on your skin type, piqui oil can replace your usual moisturizer or be added to your skincare routine, as the final step. It can also be used in a targeted manner, around the eye contour or on the lips for instance. These delicate areas often require an extra boost of hydration, a role that piqui oil can fulfill.

  Note : There remains some doubt about the potential comedogenicity of the pequi oil. As a precautionary principle, it is recommended for individuals with oily or acne-prone skin to avoid applying it all over the face.

• Pequi oil can be used on the body.

  Often overlooked, the skin on our bodies also needs to be hydrated and nourished. After showering or as part of your evening routine, you can use piqui vegetable oil for this purpose. Perform gentle circular movements on different areas of the body, paying particular attention to the elbows, knees, and feet, which are naturally prone to skin dryness. Don't hesitate to give yourself a massage while applying the oil: in addition to promoting its absorption, this helps stimulate blood circulation. It's worth noting that many people use piqui oil to prevent and reduce stretch marks, due to its hydrating and healing properties. However, no study has yet demonstrated the effectiveness of this vegetable oil on this issue.

In Brazil, its country of origin, pequi oil is highly popular in the culinary sphere. Indeed, in addition to providing a fruity aroma to dishes, it is valued for its nutritional benefits. A natural source of carotenoids and antioxidant vitamins, pequi oil also contains unsaturated fatty acids, such as oleic acid and linoleic acid, known for their beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system. If we look at the biological mechanism involved, we see that these compounds increase the activity of LDL-cholesterol receptors in the liver, thus contributing to its elimination.

Currently, no study has shown that a diet rich in pequi oil brings cosmetic benefits.

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• MAXIEL GUEDES A. M. & others. Pequi: a Brazilian fruit with potential applications in the fat industry. OCL (2017).

• OESTERREICH S. A. & al. Safety Assessment of Oil from Pequi (Caryocar brasiliense Camb.): Evaluation of the Potential Genotoxic and Clastogenic Effects. Journal of Medicinal Food (2017).

• JOANITTI G. A. & al. Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Pequi Oil (Caryocar brasiliense): A Systematic Review. Pharmaceuticals (2024).