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Plum oil – what does it contain?
The natural plum oil used in cosmetics is obtained by cold pressing the seeds of the homemade plum, commonly referred to as the Hungarian plum. It has a wonderful almond aroma, sweet smell and golden color, which should be protected from oxidation by storing it in a dark glass bottle. What makes her so valuable in terms of care? Its high cosmetic value is largely due to the high content of such ingredients as oleic acid (70%) and linoleic acid (21%), i.e. essential unsaturated fatty acids, which are incorporated into the natural lipid layer of the skin, increasing its resistance, elasticity and hydration, regulating the work of the sebaceous glands, and also responsible for the fluidity of the lipid barrier of the epidermis. Thanks to it, many active ingredients can penetrate deep into the skin. It also contains tocopherol (vitamin E), phytosterols, vitamin B, and beta-carotene.
Plum oil properties
Thanks to the aforementioned valuable substances, plum oil can be proud of its positive effects on our skin, hair and nails. What are the effects of its systematic use? The most important properties of plum oil:
- antioxidant activity,
- protection and restoration of the natural lipid layer of the skin,
- increased skin elasticity,
- acceleration of the regenerative processes of the epidermis,
- slowing down the aging process of the skin,
- protection of the skin from moisture loss,
- stimulation of microcirculation,
- promotes healing of small wounds and soothes irritation,
- regulating the work of the sebaceous glands,
- restoration of split ends and protection from further damage.
The use of plum oil in cosmetics
As already, mentioned, plum oil in cosmetics is valued primarily for its valuable components, good absorption and the absence of excessive fat content. This effect is mainly due to the large amount of unsaturated fatty acids such as oleic acid, thanks to which it penetrates deeply into the skin, making it soft and elastic, and at the same time without an unpleasant “film”. How to use plum oil? It can be successfully used as an independent oil for the face, décolleté and neck, as well as oil for massage or body care. For women with oily skin, use at a concentration of no more than 30%, for example, in combination with hyaluronic acid or another cream, for example, as a makeup base or a nourishing serum for care.
Plum seed oil also contains phytosterols, which are well tolerated by the skin, as well as softening and anti-inflammatory effects, strengthening the lipid barrier of the epidermis and reducing water loss. Of course, a remarkable feature of plum oil is its beautiful, natural aroma, which perfectly replaces both artificial flavors and natural essential oils, which, however, can cause hypersensitivity in some people. Providing cosmetics with a pleasant fragrance without the risk of allergies, it is the ideal base oil for all types of preparations for sensitive and allergy-prone skin. Even a small amount of seed oil makes the product more nutritious and pleasant to use thanks to its marzipan and fruity aromas.
In addition to beauty products for body care, plum seed oil can also be found in products that care for the ends of the hair and, for example, protect them from water loss, and even as an additive to lipsticks. An interesting fact is that plum oil has a stabilizing and antioxidant effect, extending the shelf life of the product while reducing the amount of preservatives required for use.
Plum seed oil – for whom?
Because plum oil perfectly moisturizes and tones the skin, it is intended primarily for people with dry and mature skin. It supports regeneration processes, protects against water loss and, importantly, has antioxidant properties (mainly due to tocopherol and vitamin E). Because it is quickly absorbed and soothes inflammation and irritation, those with oily or acne-prone skin can also use it, but in this case, it is recommended to use it in combination with another product. When applied correctly on damp skin, it is quickly absorbed, and thanks to its beneficial effect on the work of the sebaceous glands, it supports the fight against blackheads and reduces the appearance of pores.
Plum oil and clogged pores
Many people with oily or acne-prone skin are likely wondering if using plum oil will make their skin worse. On a five-point scale (that is, the ability of a cosmetic to clog the pores), plum oil is rated 1 or 2, that is, it is considered relatively low. However, this does not mean that some people do not clog their pores. However, in this situation, you do not have to give it up completely, but instead of using it alone, start adding a small amount to your favorite face cream. This should additionally minimize oils while maintaining its beneficial effects on the skin.
Cosmetic tricks with plum oil
How to use plum oil in practice? When it comes to the most popular solutions using plum seed oil as part of their daily routine, most users recommend the following tricks:
- Two-phase moisturizer with your favorite face cream or hyaluronic gel – just mix a few drops of oil with the gel or cream on your hand and apply it on your face, patting it lightly. Therefore, in a matter of seconds, you can enrich the formula of this product, including facemasks or your favorite body lotion.
- Skin Care Serum – Pure plum seed oil, used several times a week, is ideal as a highly regenerating and moisturizing serum for the care of the face, neck and decollete.
- Nourishing hair oil – rub a few drops of plum oil into the freshly washed hair ends to speed up their recovery. On the other hand, if our hair needs more moisture and nutrition, it can be considered a nourishing mask by massaging the hair with massaging movements before washing it.
- Nail oil – plum oil, which is regularly rubbed into the cuticle around the nails and the nail plate, repairs damage, and the fact that it is quickly absorbed allows you to use it even during the day, even between everyday activities.
- Lip peeling – dreaming of smooth, moisturized lips. Lip care is not only about using lotions, but also about removing dry skin on a regular basis, such as a natural scrub made with a few drops of plum oil and finely ground sugar.
Unusual uses of plum oil
Homemade plum seed oil is prized for its unique properties not only in cosmetics, but also in catering. In Japanese and French cuisine, it is regarded as a luxury ingredient, perfect as an ingredient in marinades, dressings or sauces. Due to its unique aroma, it is successfully added to various types of baked goods or sweet desserts, especially when combined with fruits such as apricots, strawberries, apples or lemons.
