Pracaxi oil: benefits for hair?

Whether used as an oil bath, alone or mixed with other oils, pracaxi oil is believed to have the ability to hydrate and protect hair fibres. Indeed, it has a high concentration of essential fatty acids. Its high content of monounsaturated fatty acids, such as oleic acid, a natural component of sebum, allows it to coat the hair fibre with a protective film. Thus, pracaxi oil could help to protect hair fibres from external aggressions they may undergo, such as the use of heat for styling (hairdryers, straighteners, etc), frequent brushing or even bleaching.

Thepracaxi oil also contains saturated fatty acids such as palmitic acid. It plays a significant role in maintaining the hydration of the hair fibre by inserting itself at the level of the hair scales, thus forming a protective barrier. This insertion is made possible thanks to its molecular structure, which is similar to that of the lipids in the cuticle. This fatty acid ensures the cohesion of the cuticle cells and limits water loss, thereby guaranteeing the preservation of the hair fibres' impermeability. Moreover, the behenic acid found in pracaxi oil also helps to retain moisture by remaining on the surface of the fibres. Therefore, pracaxi oil would have beneficial moisturising properties for dry or damaged hair.

The fatty acid composition of pracaxi oil allows us to make assumptions about potential hydrating benefits. However, it is important to note that there are currently no scientific studies demonstrating the hydrating effects of pracaxi oil when applied to hair.

In addition to its composition rich in fatty acids, pracaxi oil contains antioxidants. Indeed, the oil is composed of vitamin E (tocopherol), as well as carotenoids, such as β-carotene. These compounds help to protect the hair by combating oxidative stress generated by free radicals. Indeed, these unstable reactive species are produced in excess by the body following external aggression or a situation creating oxidative stress in the cells, such as repeated exposure to the sun's UV rays, pollution or even tobacco. Free radicals then induce numerous harmful effects.

At the level of the scalp, oxidative stress can contribute to hair loss by weakening the hair follicles or even cause the premature appearance of white hair by disrupting the melanogenesis process. The application of pracaxi oil could therefore be interesting in order to protect the scalp against the harmful effects of free radicals. Furthermore, pracaxi oil has a non-greasy texture that could be perfectly suitable for use on the scalp.

Despite the antioxidant content of pracaxi oil, there is currently no scientific evidence to confirm that it has a significant antioxidant activity beneficial for protecting the scalp.

Pracaxi oil is also renowned for imparting discipline to the hair. Indeed, this oil, enriched with essential fatty acids, is particularly suited to textured hair and individuals who struggle to tame their frizz, and to provide a natural definition to their curls.

By facilitating improved moisture retention, its fatty acids ensure optimal hydration, thus promoting the reduction of frizz. Moreover, the behenic acid contained in the oil coats the hair fibre and strengthens it, which helps to define curls.

Regardless of the fatty acid content in pracaxi oil, no studies have been conducted so far regarding its disciplining capacity. Therefore, it is important to take certain precautions.

Regular application of pracaxi oil could help to improve hair elasticity and make it less prone to breakage. The fatty acids it contains, particularly oleic acid and palmitic acid, help to strengthen the hair structure by filling in discontinuities and cracks at the cuticle level of the fibre. They also create a protective film around the hair, making it more resistant to daily damage. Pracaxi oil would thus contribute to adding shine and softness to the hair by creating a waterproof barrier on the hair surface. Indeed, when the cuticle scales are aligned, they reflect more light.

However, precautions must be taken because, even though the effects described above have been demonstrated for each active ingredient, there is no dedicated study on the hair application of pracaxi oil.

• COSTA R. & al. Characterisation of Pentaclethra macroloba. Thermal stability, gas chromatography and Rancimat (2013).

• BLOCK J. M. & co. Composition, thermal behaviour and antioxidant activity of pracaxi (Pentaclethra macroloba) seed oil obtained by supercritical CO2. Biocatalysis and Agricultural Biotechnology (2020).