Are there any dangers associated with the topical application of Karanja oil?

Karanja oil is extracted from the seeds of the Karanja, a shrub from the Fabaceae family that grows in tropical or subtropical areas. Traditionally, it has been used in Ayurvedic medicine as a remedy to combat various skin diseases. This vegetable oil is obtained through cold pressing. It is rich in karanjin and pongamol, flavonoids known for their actions against UVA and UVB rays. It also boasts a high content of omega 3, 6 and 9, fatty acids that offer benefits for the skin.

An ingredient, even if natural, is not without risk. Karanja oil is active. This means that it should not be used undiluted on the skin to avoid allergies, irritations, spots or even redness that this vegetable oil can cause. Therefore, it is necessary to follow the maximum dilution recommendations according to different uses. For the face, the maximum dosage to be respected is 85%, compared to 25% in body care treatments.

An advisory published by the ANSM (National Agency for the Safety of Medicines and Health Products) clarifies that Karanja oil contains no ultraviolet filters. It is true that karanjin and pongamol have the ability to absorb and filter some of the sun's rays. The ANSM emphasises that skincare products cannot contain any ultraviolet filters other than those listed in Annex VI of Article 14 of the European regulation. Products exclusively intended to protect the skin against UV rays must absorb, reflect or disperse them. Karanja oil does not fall into this category. Therefore, it does not replace a sunscreen, but enhances its effects. This vegetable oil prepares the skin for sun exposure and prevents dehydration.

Potentially allergenic, Karanja oil should be tested in the crook of your elbow before applying it to your face or body to check your reaction. Allow it to work for 24 hours before washing the tested area. It is normal to feel warmth on the skin. This is indicative of its effectiveness. However, if you are allergic to this active ingredient, irritations, redness, spots, patches or itching will appear. Wash the affected area with a mild soap and, of course, do not use this oil.

Furthermore, this vegetable oil is recommended for external use only. Eye contact should be avoided. It is not suitable for children under the age of 6.

• Although karanja oil has demonstrated UV absorption capabilities, it is not considered a sunscreen. Therefore, always supplement it with the application of a sun care product.

• ANSM (Agence National de Sécurité du Médicament et des produits de santé). Produits de protection solaire contenant de l’huile de karanja (2017).