How is cotton used according to your skin type?

Originating from southern Africa, the cotton plant (Gossypium) is a shrub from the Malvaceae family. The plant fibre that surrounds the seeds of the cotton plant is none other than the famous cotton. Cultivated for centuries for the production of textiles (cotton, denim) and oil, this delicate plant requires warmth, irrigation, fertilisers and protection against insects as it quickly depletes the soil.

In skincare, cotton is typically used in the form of avegetable oil (Gossypium Herbaceum Seed Oil) and acellular extract also known as native plant cells (Gossypium Arboreum Leaf Cell Extract). Each of these two compounds have softening virtues.

Individuals with sensitive skin typically experience feelings of discomfort, particularly in the facial area. These symptoms manifest as redness, continuous tingling, feelings of tightness and/or itching, and even sensations of mild burning.

The cotton native cells soothe irritations and increase the skin's tolerance level.

These are plant cells taken directly from the plant and multiplied in a controlled culture environment. In terms of their biological mechanisms, they work by reducing the release of inflammation mediators, molecules synthesised by keratinocytes in response to external aggressions but which cause a sensation of irritation. They also limit the production of free radicals induced by UV rays that accelerate skin ageing. Thanks to this dual action, the skin, freed from sensations of irritation and better protected, can more effectively defend itself against daily aggressions and oxidations.

General cellular oxidation caused by repeated attacks from free radicals accelerates skin ageing. Many situations can lead to an excess of free radicals (induced lipoperoxidation) such as: exposure to heavy metals and pollutant residues, but also UV rays, smoking, stress...

Native cotton cells limit the release of MDA (malondialdehyde) during lipoperoxidation induced by pollutant residues and heavy metals. MDA, naturally present in tissues, is a manifestation of oxidative stress. It is particularly derived from the action of reactive oxygen derivatives on polyunsaturated fatty acids. Thus, by combating oxidative stress, native cotton cells limit skin ageing and the onset and/or accentuation of wrinkles.

Cottonseed oil is derived from the cold pressing of cotton pod seeds. This vegetable oil is typically refined to remove gossypol, a natural toxin that forms a protective layer around the seeds.

It is characterised by a high concentration of essential fatty acids, including omega-6 and omega-3. It also contains a significant amount of sterols, which are both softening and soothing. As for its benefits, it nourishes the skin and prevents dryness caused by various environmental factors. Furthermore, it contributes to maintaining skin hydration, which is essential to avoid itching, irritation and potential feelings of discomfort.

Furthermore, cottonseed oil leaves no oily residue on the skin's surface after application. It is silky and velvety to the touch and has virtually no scent.

• ARSHIYA S. & et al. Gossypium herbaceum An ethnopharmacological review. Journalof Pharmaceutical and Scientific Innovation (2012).

• SHAHRAJABIAN M. H. & co. Evaluating white gold, cotton, for its fibre, seed oil, traditional and modern health benefits. Journal of Biological and Environmental Sciences (2020).