Hazelnut vegetable oil is renowned in skin and hair care for its ability to regulate sebum production. Non-greasy and non-comedogenic, it is considered a dry oil that quickly penetrates the epidermis. Find here all the information you need to know about this plant-based substance.
Everything you need to know about hazelnut oil.
Summary
Published on October 4, 2024, by Maylis, Chemical Engineer — 6 min of reading
Themes:
Hazelnut oil, extraction process and key characteristics.
Formerly known as "hazel", the hazel tree (Corylus avellana) is a tree belonging to the Betulaceae family, primarily cultivated in Europe, Asia Minor, and North Africa. The hazelnut is the oilseed fruit that contains the highest lipid content. A recipe extracted from the Cambrai bible in the 12th century recommended the use of hazelnut oil mixed with chervil juice and honey, to combat hair loss and to ensure its regrowth. Hazelnut oil, being softening, has a remarkable power of diffusion and penetration, making it an excellent carrier in aromatherapy.
The virgin hazelnut oil is extracted by first cold pressing of the fruits followed by a filtration on cellulose paper. It is fluid and light, with rapid absorption and provides a dry touch. It leaves the skin matte, soft and comfortable.
Hazelnut oil is rich in fatty acids essential such as the linoleic acid (omega-6), the oleic acid (omega-9), the palmitic acid and the stearic acid. To remind, oleic acid is the most abundant long-chain monounsaturated fatty acid in our body. Highly nourishing for the skin, it makes it more supple and softer but also more radiant. Hazelnut vegetable oil also contains a natural antioxidant, the vitamin E, also called tocopherol, as well as phytosterols.
It exhibits alow comedogenicity index, meaning it does not clog pores and penetrates quickly through the skin. Even though it is relatively resistant to oxidation, it is preferably stored in a cool place, protected from heat and light in an amber bottle.
The benefits of hazelnut oil for the skin.
Hazelnut vegetable oil is recognised for its ability to regulate sebum production and rebalance the hydrolipidic film. Non-greasy and non-comedogenic, it quickly penetrates the epidermis. It is considered a dry oil; it is particularly recommended for combination to oily skin as well as skin prone to acne and/or blackheads. Furthermore, the linoleic acid it contains prevents the excessive accumulation of dead cells on the skin's surface. This is an essential fatty acid that promotes cell renewal, thus preventing the clogging of hair follicles that leads to comedones.
Rich in omega-6 and omega-9, it also providesnutritionandelasticityto the skin, andprevents dehydrationbystrengthening the barrier functionof the epidermis. The hydrolipidic film improves the resistance of the horny layer against external aggressions and limits insensible water loss.
Hazelnut vegetable oil can also be used as a massage oil. Thanks to its softening properties, it can help reduce the appearance of cellulite and stretch marks.
What benefits for the hair?
The sebum-regulating properties of hazelnut vegetable oil also make it an excellent treatment for hair that quickly becomes greasy and for unbalanced scalps.
Unlike dry hair, oily hair produces an excessive amount of sebum. This can cause the hair to become sticky, shiny, and flat. The presence of oily dandruff is also common. Indeed, this is the result of an inflammatory reaction following the accumulation of pollution and impurities at the scalp level.
To cleanse this area, opt for a hazelnut oil massage before each shampoo, two to three times a week. At the base of the hair, apply two to three drops of hazelnut oil and then massage the scalp. It is possible to leave this oil on for a few minutes to an hour before shampooing.
In which skincare products can one find hazelnut oil?
This plant-based substance does not have any contraindications, except for individuals allergic to oil-bearing fruits. Hazelnut oil is well tolerated by all skin types. It is included in the formulation of certain facial care products (serums, creams, oils, balms, masks) as well as body care products (milks, balms, shower oils, hand and foot creams). It is also a component in some shampoos intended for oily scalps.
Thehazelnut vegetable oil from Typology is obtained by cold pressing the fruits of the hazel tree, which are organically farmed and grown in France. It is recommended for mattifying and purifying shiny skin characterised by an overproduction of sebum and enlarged pores. It can also be applied to the hair to rebalance oily scalps.
Thepurifying botanical blend also contains hazelnut oil. This night serum helps to purify the skin through the sebum-regulating and anti-inflammatory actions of 7 botanical extracts.
Furthermore, Typology has developed ablemish serumwith 1% bakuchiol and hazelnut vegetable oil to regulate sebum production and rebalance the hydrolipidic film. Entirely natural, this treatment is suitable for blemish-prone and acne-prone skin.
Sources:
BARDOT J & al. Influence of hazelnut oil phospholipids on the skin moisturizing effect of a cosmetic emulsion. International journal of Cosmetic (1990).
GÖKMEN V. & al. Bioactive compounds in different hazelnut varieties and their skins. Journal of Food Composition and Analysis (2015).
