Karanja Oil: How is it extracted?

Naturally protective, karanja oil contains known molecules, notably karanjin and pongamol. These flavonoids contribute to skin protection and delay the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. They neutralise free radicals, which are responsible for oxidative stress and premature skin ageing. This treatment also boasts a content of Omega-9, known for its hydrating and nourishing properties for the skin.

Due to its numerous benefits, karanja oil is a valuable ally for skin exposed to the sun and skin prone to blemishes. It is precisely incorporated into the formulation of our facial sun care products.

Karanja oil is obtained through the first cold pressing of the seeds of this plant. This traditional pressing system is favoured for vegetable oils, as it allows their properties to remain intact. In cosmetics, the content of active ingredients is a key factor for targeted formulation.

The principle of cold pressing is simple: initially, the raw material is ground in a mill with a kneader. Subsequently, a centrifugation mechanism drives the oil droplets outward. They then clump together into larger droplets to give birth to the organic phase.

Regarding the extraction of karanja oil, the steps proceed as follows:

1. The seeds are harvested, transported to the factory, and then placed in a hydraulic press. The mechanical pressing stage must be carried out at room temperature (below 35°C) and without any additional substances. Indeed, a high temperature is likely to cause oxidation and degradation of the resulting oil.

2. The seeds are then pressed using a screw press, pushing them into a barrel-shaped cavity. From this compression, oil gushes out through the openings, while the pressing residues (cake) are retained in the barrel. This first natural juice contains all the essential nutrients, having undergone no transformation or refining process.

3. If necessary, it is possible to carry out centrifugation and filtration.

Cold pressing differs from so-called hot pressing, operating on two fronts: quickly pressing the oils to yield more. This technique is primarily used by industrial establishments that prioritise quantity over quality. However, heating the seeds deprives the oil of its intrinsic properties: vitamins are denatured, fatty acids become saturated and nutrients decompose. Even though these oils are homogeneous and stable, they lack virtues and typicity, which are essential for skin health.

At Typology, we are committed to prioritising cold-pressed karanja oil, which still retains all its active ingredients and infuses them into our sun care products. For instance, we offer our SPF 30 sunscreen specifically designed for dry skin.