What molecules make up the vegetable oil of plum?

Like most vegetable oils, plum oil is primarily composed of fatty acids. Its composition includes:

• The monounsaturated fatty acids such as the oleic acid (also known as omega 9), present in a mass fraction ranging from 65 to 75%. Although synthesized by the body, external supply (topically) of omega 9 is necessary to strengthen the skin's protective barrier. Indeed, these fatty acids constitute the hydrolipidic film, the layer that protects the skin from aggressions and maintains its hydration level. These are lipids that are part of the composition of sebum, a substance naturally secreted by the body to counteract skin and hair dryness. To avoid brittle hair and dry skin, sufficient sebum production is necessary. Oleic acid thus stimulates the production of sebum by the sebaceous glands and fights against the dryness of the hair and skin.

• The polyunsaturated fatty acids, including the linoleic acid or omega 6, are present in a mass fraction ranging between 15 and 25%. This category of fatty acids is referred to as essential, as they are not synthesized by the body. Omega 6 contributes to the process of cellular renewal. When applied topically, they help combat signs of aging and promote healing. They also soothe inflammatory reactions and are beneficial for sensitive skin, suffering from tightness and irritation.

• The saturated fatty acids, such as the palmitic acid, represent 4 to 6% of the total composition of plum oil. Palmitic acid has emollient properties, which means it promotes hydration of skin and hair cells. It thus provides suppleness and softness.

Note: Due to the chemical structure of these fatty acids, vegetable oils are sensitive to oxidation, it is recommended to store them away from light and moisture. Furthermore, close the bottle after each use.

As its name suggests, the "unsaponifiable" fraction of a vegetable oil represents the elements that are not transformed into soap during a saponification reaction. These include sterols, hydrocarbons (squalene, etc...), fatty alcohols (waxes, etc...), liposoluble pigments, vitamins, polyphenols, minerals, etc... Generally, this unsaponifiable fraction only represents 0.5 to 2% of vegetable oils.

Plum oil contains a proportion > 600 mg/kg of vitamin E (tocopherol), a powerfulnatural antioxidant. It protects the skin and hair from the damage caused by free radicals, which arereactive oxygen speciesproduced naturally by the body but produced in excess when cells are exposed tostress. The sources of stress are numerous, the main ones being UV exposure, pollution, smoking, and a diet too rich in fats and/or sugars. Free radicals are particularly unstable molecules due to theirsingle electron. They tend to react with other molecules to form apair of electrons, and then causedamage to cells, DNA, and proteins in the body. They are notably involved in lipid peroxidation, a degradation reaction of the constituents of cell membranes. This accelerates aging and wrinkles appear on the skin's surface. Regarding hair, free radicals weaken hair fibers, hastening their fall and/or the appearance of white hair. Therefore, plum oil is an excellent ally in preventing skin aging, combating the appearance and/or accentuation of wrinkles, as well as the degradation of hair strength over time.