How to use pequi oil?

Suitable for all hair types, the pequi oil is frequently used to formulate hair care products or to care for one's hair length. Rich in fatty acids, it has moisturising and softening properties, beneficial for the hair as well as the scalp. Moreover, the piqui oil contains numerous antioxidants, allowing it to protect hair fibres from oxidative stress, a factor that can affect their quality and pigmentation and promote their fall. Finally, this vegetable oil has a soothing effect and can act on various parameters of inflammation.

How to use pequi oil on hair?

• Pequi oil can be applied along the lengths.

  Most commonly, piqui oil is used on the lengths of hair, with the aim of hydrating them and enhancing their texture and shine. Like most vegetable oils, it is beneficial for dry ends or those lacking vitality. Therefore, to take care of your hair, you can apply a little piqui oil from mid-lengths to ends once a week. A few drops on your entire head of hair are sufficient, as an excessive amount may unnecessarily weigh down your hair. Then, leave the treatment on for about fifteen minutes or overnight before proceeding with your shampoo.

  Piqui oil can also benefit individuals with textured hair, that is, hair that is curly, wavy or frizzy. Indeed, by enhancing the visco-elastic properties of the fibres, it can help to define curls and give them a more dynamic appearance. It is primarily recommended to slightly dampen the lengths of the hair. Then, place a few drops of piqui oil in the palm of your hands and rub them together to warm the oil before distributing it through your hair. Strand by strand, gently press your curls with your hands, starting from the tips and moving upwards, following the "scrunching" method. Finally, you can dry your hair by carefully wrapping it in a towel or using a hairdryer that emits cool air.

• The piqui oil can be used on the scalp.

  Although this use is less common, it is possible to apply a few drops of pequi oil to the scalp in case of itching or localised dryness. Then gently massage your scalp to allow the oil to penetrate. Moisturising and anti-inflammatory, this vegetable oil also has the advantage of having a relatively dry touch. However, it is still recommended to shampoo within the hour or the following morning, particularly if your scalp tends to become oily quickly or if you have fine hair.

The pequi oil can also be used for skincare. Thanks to its high oleic acid content, a fatty acid that makes up nearly 70% of its biochemical composition, pequi oil can strengthen the hydrolipidic film and prevent skin dehydration. It also has an interesting antioxidant action that can slow down photoaging and protect the skin from oxidative stress. It's also worth noting that several studies have shown that pequi oil can be beneficial for minor redness or small cuts, due to its soothing and healing effects. Lastly, it appears to have useful antibacterial activity for purifying the skin. Thus, pequi oil proves to be a versatile vegetable oil, suitable for multiple uses.

How to use pequi oil on the skin?

• Pequi oil can be applied to the face.

  Used alone or mixed with other plant oils, piqui oil can be utilised to hydrate, nourish and protect the facial skin from oxidative stress. Just a few drops are enough to seal in the moisture. Depending on your skin type, piqui oil can replace your usual moisturiser or be added to your skincare routine, as the final step. It can also be used in a targeted manner, around the eye contour or on the lips for instance. These delicate areas often require an extra boost of hydration, a role that piqui oil can fulfil.

  Note : There remains some uncertainty regarding the potential comedogenicity of the pequi oil. As a precautionary principle, it is recommended for individuals with oily or acne-prone skin to avoid applying it all over the face.

• Pequi oil can be used on the body.

  Often overlooked, the skin on our bodies also needs to be hydrated and nourished. After showering or as part of your evening routine, you can use piqui vegetable oil for this purpose. Perform gentle circular movements on different areas of the body, paying particular attention to the elbows, knees and feet, which are naturally prone to skin dryness. Don't hesitate to perform a self-massage when applying the oil: in addition to promoting its absorption, this helps to stimulate blood circulation. It's worth noting that many people use piqui oil to prevent and reduce stretch marks, due to its hydrating and healing properties. However, no study has yet demonstrated the effectiveness of this vegetable oil on this issue.

In Brazil, its country of origin, pequi oil is highly popular within the culinary sphere. Indeed, in addition to providing a fruity aroma to dishes, it is valued for its nutritional benefits. A natural source of carotenoids and antioxidant vitamins, pequi oil also contains unsaturated fatty acids, such as oleic acid and linoleic acid, known for their beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system. If we delve into the biological mechanism involved, we see that these compounds increase the activity of LDL-cholesterol receptors in the liver, thus aiding its elimination.

At present, no study has shown that a diet rich in pequi oil brings cosmetic benefits.

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• MAXIEL GUEDES A. M. & co. Pequi: a Brazilian fruit with potential applications in the fat industry. OCL (2017).

• OESTERREICH S. A. & al. Safety Assessment of Oil from Pequi (Caryocar brasiliense Camb.): Evaluation of the Potential Genotoxic and Clastogenic Effects. Journal of Medicinal Food (2017).

• JOANITTI G. A. & co. Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Pequi Oil (Caryocar brasiliense): A Systematic Review. Pharmaceuticals (2024).