Prune oil is derived from the species Prunus domestica, a fruit-bearing tree native to China and a hybrid of the Prunus cerasifera and the Prunus spinosa. It has been used for many years for medicinal purposes due to its anti-cancer properties. It is the quintessential antioxidant treatment that protects the skin and hair from accelerated ageing.
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What you need to know about plum vegetable oil.
Summary
- What is Prunus domestica?
- How is plum oil obtained?
- The benefits of plum oil in cosmetics
- In which skincare treatments is plum oil used?
- Sources
Published February 12, 2024,
by
Maylis, Chemical Engineer
—
7 min read
Topics:
What is Prunus domestica?
This refers to a variety of plum tree commonly known as the Ente plum tree. This fruit-bearing tree belongs to the Rosaceae family. As it adapts to all climates and all types of soil, this tree grows easily and is now cultivated in many regions of the world. However, it is most abundant in the south-west of France, in Lot-Et-Garonne, where it is cultivated for the famous production of Agen prunes.
According to legend, the plum tree was introduced to Europe by the Crusaders. These individuals, returning from Morocco after an unsuccessful journey, are said to have brought back a large number of plum trees. They were reportedly the subject of ridicule, with the king asserting that they had only gone there for plums, hence the famous French expression.
How is plum oil obtained?
Titled "Prunus Domestica Seed Oil" according to the I.N.C.I. nomenclature, plum vegetable oil is obtained by first cold pressing of the kernels of the fruits. These are harvested from mid-August to mid-September, when they have a beautiful dark purple colour with characteristic bluish reflections. Then, they are shelled to isolate the stones and kernels, which are then mechanically ground. This step is carried out at room temperature and does not involve any chemical reaction. The liquid fraction recovered is left to settle and then filtered to remove any residues. This extraction method allows for a 100% pure and natural oil and preserves all the active principles of the kernels. The plum oil thus extracted is used in the skincare and haircare industry, where it is present in moisturising, nourishing and antioxidant treatments. In addition to its benefits, it brings a gentle frangipane scent to the treatments.
The benefits of plum oil in cosmetics.
In skincare and haircare, this vegetable oil is particularly acclaimed for its antioxidant power and its ability to protect cells from free radicals generated by UV exposure and pollution. Moreover, being rich in approximately 70% omega 9 and 20% omega 6, it provides nutrition and elasticity and prevents dehydration by strengthening the skin's barrier function. It is thus highly recommended for the care of dehydrated skin and hair and/or those regularly exposed to oxidation factors (pollution, UV). Additionally, it is non-comedogenic: it does not clog pores. Its texture penetrates quickly and leaves the skin soft and supple, scented with the characteristic almond fragrance of plum oil.
In which skincare treatments is plum oil used?
Prune oil is a safe ingredient to use. It does not contain any allergenic molecules. Its use is suitable for everyone, it can be used without any contraindications by children as well as pregnant and/or breastfeeding women.
It can be found in certain treatments such as day and night creams that prevent dehydration and the appearance of wrinkles, nourishing oils and balms for the body and face, as well as all kinds of hair products (shampoos, masks, conditioners...). Pure plum vegetable oil can also be used, it is particularly beneficial for skin exposed to oxidation factors (pollution, UV), dehydrated skin as well as sensitive and reactive skin. Its concentration in a treatment can thus vary from 1 to 100%.
Ourplum vegetable oilcomes from the cold pressing of plum kernels fromorganic farming, grown and harvested in theSouth-West of France. By replenishing the skin layer, this treatment nourishes, hydrates and improves skin elasticity. It also protects it from the harmful effects of pollution, including cellular oxidation. Furthermore, you can find this vegetable oil in the following formulas.
The eye cream for dark circles and bags Caffeine 2% + Cornflower Hydrosol is concentrated with decongestant active ingredients. It helps to reduce the purplish appearance of dark circles and the swollen look of bags under the eyes, for a brighter gaze.
Thenourishing face creamHyaluronic Acid 1% + Shea Butter is enriched with lipid-replenishing and moisturising active ingredients. It restores suppleness to the skin and reduces feelings of tightness.
Thetargeted body dryness serumcontains nourishing and soothing active ingredients to combat skin dryness typically found on the elbows, knees, and heels.
The nourishing body cream restores the skin's lipid barrier, reduces feelings of tightness and protects the skin from external aggressions.
Thegel-to-oilwith baobab oil visibly prevents and reduces the appearance of stretch marks, while providing suppleness and elasticity to the skin.
Thetinted lip oilis composed of98% natural origin ingredientsand is available in6 shades. It is formulatedwithout nanoparticles,without mineral oils,without siliconesandwithout beeswax. It provides a light coverage and a shiny, non-sticky finish.
Sources:
AKHTAR N. & al. Prunus domestica, Prunus persica and Prunus avium extracts: determination of radical scavenging activities and development of natural antioxidant emulsions. African Journal of Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicines (2014).
KOMARNYTSKY S. & al.The enigma of bioactivity and toxicity of botanical oils for skin care. Frontiers in Pharmacology (2020).
GAJIC M. S. & al. Optimization study on extraction of antioxidants from plum seeds (Prunus domestica L.). Optimization and Engineering (2021).
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