Cold pressed oils are widely regarded as superior for skin care compared to other extraction methods. When looking deeper into production methods, you'll find that the top serums in the UK and around the world use this method. Here’s an in-depth look at why these oils are better for your skin, supported by scientific evidence and practical insights.
What are Cold Pressed Oils?
Cold pressing is a method of extracting oil from seeds, nuts, or fruits without using heat. This technique involves mechanically pressing the source material to release its oils. The process maintains a temperature below 49°C (120°F) to preserve the oil’s natural properties.
Benefits of Cold Pressed Oils
Nutrient Retention
- Mechanism: Cold pressing preserves essential nutrients such as vitamins, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids that are often degraded by heat in other extraction methods.
- Scientific Evidence: A study published in the Journal of Food Science and Technology found that cold pressed oils retain higher levels of tocopherols (Vitamin E) and phenolic compounds, which are vital for skin health.
Purity and Quality
- Mechanism: This extraction method avoids the use of chemical solvents, ensuring that the oil remains pure and free from contaminants.
- Scientific Evidence: Research in the International Journal of Food Properties indicates that cold pressed oils have a better fatty acid profile and are less likely to contain residual solvents compared to those extracted using heat and chemicals.
Enhanced Skin Benefits
- Mechanism: The higher concentration of antioxidants and vitamins in cold pressed oils enhances their skin benefits, including hydration, anti-aging, and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Scientific Evidence: A review in the Journal of Cosmetic Science highlights that cold pressed oils like argan and jojoba oil are more effective in reducing inflammation and improving skin elasticity due to their preserved active compounds.
Common Cold Pressed Oils and Their Benefits
Jojoba Oil
- Benefits: Similar to the skin’s natural sebum, it regulates oil production, soothes irritation, and provides deep hydration.
- Scientific Evidence: Research in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology demonstrates jojoba oil’s effectiveness in treating skin conditions and maintaining skin health.
Hemp Seed Oil
- Benefits: Rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, it helps to moisturize the skin, reduce inflammation, and promote skin barrier function.
- Scientific Evidence: A study in the Journal of Dermatological Treatment found that hemp seed oil improves skin hydration and elasticity, making it beneficial for dry and sensitive skin.
Black Seed Oil
- Benefits: Contains thymoquinone, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It helps to soothe irritated skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines.
- Scientific Evidence: Research published in the Journal of Dermatological Science indicates that black seed oil can effectively reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, contributing to healthier, more resilient skin.
To experience the benefits of cold-pressed jojoba, hemp seed, and black seed oils in your serums, we recommend trying our best-selling Sunlight Serum and Moonlight Serum, which have been meticulously crafted to ensure the highest efficacy.
Comparison with Other Extraction Methods
Heat Extraction
- This form of extraction uses high temperatures to extract oil, often degrading heat-sensitive nutrients and antioxidants. This leads to the extracts having a lower nutritional value, and this process can potentially lead to more harmful free radicals.
- Scientific Evidence: A study in the Journal of the American Oil Chemists' Society shows that heat extraction reduces the quality and nutritional content of oils.
Solvent Extraction
- This form of extraction uses chemical solvents like hexane to extract oil, which can leave residues and affect the purity of the oil. This can potentially contaminate the oils with harmful chemicals and lower its retention of beneficial compounds.
- Scientific Evidence: Research in Food Chemistry indicates that solvent-extracted oils often contain residual solvents and have a less desirable fatty acid profile.
Conclusion
Cold pressed oils stand out as the superior choice for skin care due to their nutrient retention, purity, and enhanced skin benefits. They provide a natural and effective way to maintain and improve skin health. When selecting skincare products, look for those containing cold pressed oils to ensure you are getting the highest quality and most beneficial ingredients for your skin.
