By steeping plants in vegetable oil, we subsequently obtain what is known as an oil macerate. This process aims to extract the active ingredients from the plant to enhance the virtues of the carrier oil. Oil macerates are excellent ingredients to use for skin care. But how can we use them to maximise their benefits? Let's explore this in a few points.
How to use an oil macerate?
Published on July 1, 2021, updated on October 4, 2024, by Stéphanie, PhD, Doctorate in Life and Health Sciences — 3 min of reading
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A brief clarification on oil maceration.
The use of oil macerates dates back to antiquity. At that time, they were used to soothe pain or burns. To avoid any alteration of their properties, plant extracts and carrier oils should preferably come from organic farming. A virgin oil, obtained by cold pressing, neutral and stable, is the basis of all maceration, as all the properties of the active ingredients such as vitamins, essential fatty acids, antioxidants, etc... will thus be preserved in the solvent.
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Utility of the macerate.
Oil macerates have a variety of uses. In beauty products, macerates serve as a base for diluting essential oils. They are also used in preparations for the face and body. The resulting blend can thus enhance the active principles contained in a cream or a mask. For example, the calendula oil macerate can be used in conjunction with balms or moisturising creams. This oil, rich in antioxidants, which aids skin regeneration, is combined with sunflower oil, which is composed of oleic acid. The action of the oleic acid reinforces the hydrolipidic film, thus giving the calendula oil macerate healing and restorative properties.
Oil macerates can also be used to perform therapeutic massages, particularly in sports, similar to the arnica oil macerate. Composed of flavonoids, this plant contains sesquiterpene lactones that help fight inflammation and also act as an analgesic. Used as a recovery massage after training, this macerate will help to alleviate muscle and joint pain.
Finally, the application of a carrot oil macerate will provide an immediate healthy glow to the complexion, while protecting the epidermis from free radicals. This is an excellent alternative to prolonged sun exposure or the use of overly heavy makeup that can clog pores and increase the risk of blemishes.
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