Sesame oil, extracted from sesame seeds Sesamum indicum, has several interesting properties due to its unique composition. Often used in gastronomy, it also holds a prominent place in the cosmetic industry for the formulation of skincare products. Learn more about the benefits of sesame oil for the skin.
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What are the skin benefits of sesame oil?
- Sesame oil has moisturizing properties
- Sesame oil possesses anti-inflammatory properties
- Sesame oil has an antioxidant effect
- Sesame oil exhibits anti-bacterial activity
- Sesame oil exhibits healing and soothing properties
- Sources
Sesame oil has moisturizing properties.
A recent study by PIOTROWSKA evaluated the impact of the topical application of several vegetable oils, including sesame oil, on the skin of young women. In total, 35 volunteers with an average age of 20 participated in the study. The results of this research indicate that the applied vegetable oils tended to positively influence the skin's hydration level, increasing it by nearly 30 % for sesame oil.
The significant improvement in skin hydration after a single application of sesame oil can be attributed to its phytochemical composition rich in fatty acids, compounds capable of strengthening the skin's hydrolipidic balance. Oleic acid, in particular, forms a film on the surface of the epidermis that helps limit water loss. Therefore, sesame oil can protect the skin from dehydration by acting as a shield.
Sesame oil possesses anti-inflammatory properties.
A 2015 study demonstrated that sesamin, a lignan found in sesame oil, exhibits anti-inflammatory effects. Indeed, it was observed to significantly reduce the mRNA expression of interleukins 1 and 6 (IL-1 and IL-6) in human fibroblast cell lines, indicating that sesamin inhibits the synthesis of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Furthermore, sesame oil contains other compounds with anti-inflammatory properties, such as phytosterols (β-sitosterol and campesterol) and phenolic compounds (sesamol and sesamolinol).
A recent study has also shown that certain fatty acids in sesame oil possess anti-inflammatory properties. Indeed, oleic acid and linoleic acid are capable ofaccelerating and enhancing the inflammatory response by mobilizing inflammation cells. The sesame oil thus presents significant benefits in reducing skin inflammation, thereby promoting skin regeneration. Its application could help to somewhat alleviate irritations, redness, and itching.
Sesame oil has an antioxidant effect.
The production and elimination of free radicals are maintained by redox mechanisms that help to maintain homeostasis in skin cells. When produced in excess, free radicals tend to cause damage to cells, DNA, and proteins in the body. Antioxidant actives can work to restore balance. A study has shown that sesamin from sesame oil has antioxidant activity and is capable of trapping free radicals, inhibiting the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and increasing the activities of catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), antioxidant enzymes.
In addition to sesamin, the sesame oil contains other antioxidants, such as vitamin E and phenolic compounds, which help to counteract oxidative stress and protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals by neutralizing them through an electron donation. This overall antioxidant activity of sesame oil makes it interesting in the fight against oxidative stress and the early onset of skin aging signs.
Sesame oil exhibits anti-bacterial activity.
A study has focused on the evaluation of the anti-bacterial action of sesame oil. In total, 8 microorganisms were tested, including Staphylococcus aureus, a Gram-positive bacterium, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a Gram-negative bacterium. Of the 8 microorganisms tested, 4 Gram-positive bacteria and 2 Gram-negative bacteria were sensitive to sesame oil. The scientists concluded that sesame oil has a broad-spectrum anti-bacterial activity. Mass chromatography analysis showed that this effect was due to sesamin and sesamol, lignans present in the oil.
The results of this study show us that the sesame oil can act against certain bacteria, which allows us to suppose that it could potentially be useful in fighting against Cutibacterium acnes, the bacteria responsible for acne. However, more in-depth investigations should be carried out to obtain more information on the mechanisms of action involved and the extent of its antibacterial activity.
Sesame oil exhibits healing and soothing properties.
According to research from 2018, sesame oil could be beneficial in accelerating wound healing. Indeed, this study evaluated the effectiveness of an ointment containing this oil, camphor, and honey on second-degree burn wounds in rats, compared to a daily dressing with vaseline. In total, 40 rats were divided into two groups for each treatment. The response to the treatments was evaluated at 0, 7, 14, 21, and 28 days.
The study results demonstrated significant re-epithelialization in the group that received the ointment containing sesame oil. The healing percentage was evaluated at 70% after 14 days in the "sesame oil" group, compared to 35% in the "vaseline" group. After 28 days, healing was 100% for the rats in the first group. Sesame oil therefore has good healing potential. The fatty acids it contains play a crucial role in cell regeneration and in increasing vascular permeability in the wound area, which promotes better blood supply and facilitates the healing process.
Sources
SONG J & others. Protective properties of sesamin against fluoride-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis in carp kidney (Cyprinus carpio) through the JNK signaling pathway. Aquatic Toxicology (2015).
JAVDANI A. & al. The Healing Effect of Sesame Oil, Camphor, and Honey on Second Degree Burn Wounds in Rats. World Journal of Plastic Surgery (2018).
MENG Q. & al. Sesame (Sesamum indicumL.): A Comprehensive Review of Nutritional Value, Phytochemical Composition, Health Benefits, Development of Food, and Industrial Applications. Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute Journal (2022).
PIOTROWSKA A. & al. Impact of Raspberry Seed Oil, Sesame Oil, and Coconut Oil on Skin in Young Women. Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute Journal (2023).
WEN-NEE T. & al. Antibacterial and Antioxidant Properties of Ghee Hiang Sesame Oil Extract. Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences (2023).
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