Prune oil is derived from the species Prunus domestica, a fruit tree native to China and a hybrid of the Prunus cerasifera and the Prunus spinosa. It has been used for many years for medicinal purposes due to its anti-cancer properties. It is the quintessential antioxidant treatment that protects the skin and hair from accelerated aging.
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What you need to know about plum vegetable oil.
Summary
- What is Prunus domestica?
- How is plum oil obtained?
- The benefits of plum oil in cosmetics
- In which skincare products is plum oil used?
- Sources
Published February 12, 2024,
by
Maylis, Chemical Engineer
—
7 min read
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What is Prunus domestica?
This refers to a variety of plum tree commonly known as the Ente plum tree. This fruit-bearing tree belongs to the Rosaceae family. As it adapts to all climates and all types of soils, this tree grows easily and is now cultivated in many regions of the world. However, it is most abundant in the southwest of France, in Lot-Et-Garonne, where it is cultivated for the famous production of Agen prunes.
According to legend, the plum tree was introduced to Europe by the Crusaders. These individuals, returning from Morocco after an unsuccessful journey, reportedly brought back a large number of plum trees. They were then subjected to ridicule, with the king asserting that they had gone there only for plums, hence the famous French expression.
How is plum oil obtained?
Titled "Prunus Domestica Seed Oil" according to the I.N.C.I. nomenclature, plum vegetable oil is obtained by first cold pressing of the kernels of the fruits. These are harvested from mid-August to mid-September, when they have a beautiful dark purple color with characteristic bluish reflections. Then, they are shelled to isolate the pits and kernels, which are then mechanically ground. This step is carried out at room temperature and does not involve any chemical reaction. The liquid fraction recovered is allowed to settle and then filtered to remove any residues. This extraction method allows obtaining a 100% pure and natural oil and preserving all the active principles of the kernels. The plum oil thus extracted is used in the skin and hair care industry, where it is present in moisturizing, nourishing, and antioxidant treatments. In addition to its benefits, it brings a gentle frangipane scent to the treatments.
The benefits of plum oil in cosmetics.
In skincare and haircare, this vegetable oil is particularly favored for its antioxidant power and its ability to protect cells from free radicals generated by UV exposure and pollution. Moreover, being rich in about 70% omega 9 and 20% omega 6, it provides nutrition and elasticity and prevents dehydration by strengthening the skin's barrier function. It is thus highly recommended for the care of dehydrated skin and hair and/or those regularly exposed to oxidation factors (pollution, UV). Additionally, it is non-comedogenic: it does not clog pores. Its texture penetrates quickly and leaves the skin soft and supple, scented with the characteristic almond fragrance of plum oil.
In which skincare products is plum oil used?
Prune oil is a safe ingredient to use. It does not contain any allergenic molecules. Its use is suitable for everyone, it can be used without any contraindications by children as well as pregnant and/or breastfeeding women.
It can be found in certain treatments such as day and night creams that prevent dehydration and the appearance of wrinkles, nourishing oils and balms for the body and face, as well as all kinds of hair products (shampoos, masks, conditioners...). Pure plum vegetable oil can also be used, it is particularly beneficial for skin exposed to oxidation factors (pollution, UV), dehydrated skin, as well as sensitive and reactive skin. Its concentration in a treatment can thus vary from 1 to 100%.
Ourplum vegetable oilcomes from the cold pressing of plum kernels fromorganic farming, grown and harvested in theSouthwest of France. By replenishing the skin layer, this treatment nourishes, hydrates, and improves skin elasticity. It also protects against the harmful effects of pollution, including cellular oxidation. Furthermore, you can find this vegetable oil in the following formulas.
The eye cream for dark circles and bags Caffeine 2% + Cornflower Hydrosol is concentrated with decongesting active ingredients. It helps to reduce the purplish appearance of dark circles and the swollen look of bags under the eyes, for a brighter gaze.
Thenourishing face creamHyaluronic Acid 1% + Shea Butter is enriched with lipid-replenishing and moisturizing active ingredients. It restores suppleness to the skin and reduces feelings of tightness.
Thelocalized dryness body serumcontains nourishing and soothing active ingredients to combat skin dryness typically found on the elbows, knees, and heels.
Thenourishing body cream restores the skin's lipid barrier, reduces feelings of tightness, and protects the skin from external aggressions.
Thegel-to-oilwith baobab oil visibly prevents and reduces the appearance of stretch marks, while providing flexibility and elasticity to the skin.
Thetinted lip oilis composed of98% natural origin ingredientsand comes in6 different shades. It is formulatedwithout nanoparticles,without mineral oils,without siliconesandwithout beeswax. It provides a light coverage and a shiny, non-sticky finish.
Sources:
AKHTAR N. & al. Prunus domestica, Prunus persica and Prunus avium extracts: determination of radical scavenging activities and development of natural antioxidant emulsions. African Journal of Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicines (2014).
KOMARNYTSKY S. & al.The enigma of bioactivity and toxicity of botanical oils for skin care. Frontiers in Pharmacology (2020).
GAJIC M. S. & al. Optimization study on extraction of antioxidants from plum seeds (Prunus domestica L.). Optimization and Engineering (2021).
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