How is pracaxi oil used ?

The pracaxi oil appears to be beneficial for topical application, given its high oleic acid content (40 to 60%) which enables it to limit transepidermal water loss and thus prevent dehydration. Furthermore, thanks to the fatty acids it contains, it strengthens the hydrolipidic film and promotes good cohesion of skin cells.

A study conducted by BANOV D. in 2014 on 21 individuals demonstrated that the use of pracaxi oil on the skin had healing and regenerative properties. The topical application of pracaxi oil improved the visual appearance of scars, particularly their size, colour and the degree of pain. The results obtained are primarily due to its content of omega-9, compounds capable of increasing the synthesis of type III collagen, which plays a key role in the formation of granulation tissue. They also stimulate the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines and reduce the synthesis of pro-inflammatory factors.

Pracaxi oil also exerts a antioxidant action that helps to prevent signs of premature ageing. Thanks to its content of vitamin E and carotenoids, it protects the skin from the harmful effects of oxidative stress. It traps free radicals and prevents the oxidative degradation of cells. Thus, pracaxi oil is a versatile oil suitable for various skin applications.

How to use pracaxi oil on the skin?

The pracaxi oil can be used alone in its pure form by applying a few drops. It can be used locally on certain areas of the face (lips or eye contour) or body (hands, feet, elbows, knees, etc.) to prevent skin dryness. The pracaxi oil could also potentially prevent the appearance of stretch marks, although the scientific evidence is still limited. To promote the proper absorption of pracaxi oil, one can perform light circular massages, which also helps to stimulate blood circulation.

Generally, it is suitable for all skin types. However, for facial application, precautions must be taken when using it undiluted on oily or acne-prone skin, as the comedogenicity of this oil has not yet been precisely determined to date. The pracaxi oil can also be incorporated into certain cosmetic products (cream, serum, etc). It can also be used within a blend of vegetable oils.

As of now, there are only a few dietary supplements that contain pracaxi oil, and there are no scientific studies highlighting its benefits for the skin or hair when taken orally. Thus, the ingestion of pracaxi oil does not seem to offer any cosmetic benefits. However, a recent study evaluated the toxicity of pracaxi oil when administered orally to rats. It demonstrated that the vegetable oil did not cause any adverse effects, results that could potentially be correlated to humans.