AVOCADO OIL
Avocado oil is pressed from the fruit of the avocado tree (Persea americana). The fruit originated in Southern Mexico with archaeological evidence indicating that cultivation started in very ancient times, possibly about 6000 years ago.
The avocado is now produced all over the world and is one of few edible oils not derived from a seed but is extracted by pressing the fruit pulp surrounding the pit of the avocado that can contain up to 25% fat.
Avocados are quite delicious and nutritious. Similar to olive oil, avocado oil is considered an important fruit for its nutritional value as it is rich in vital nutrients for the human body either eaten raw or applied directly to skin and hair.
BENEFITS OF AVOCADO OIL ON SKIN
Avocado oil has countless benefits for you skin, from daily moisturising rituals to aiding in healing and prevention of certain skin conditions.
Containing antioxidants, vitamins A, C, D, E and many more, along with anti-inflammatory properties, avocado oil is easily absorbed into your skin without leaving a greasy residue. Vitamins A and E are already found on the skin membrane and allows for easy absorption of nutrients and helps to strengthen the skin’s lipid barrier which enables even better moisture retention.
Additionally, these two vitamins help rein in some of the less flattering features that come with age. They address, heal and prevent photo damage that leads to fine lines and discoloration on one’s face, neck and décolletage or areas most exposed to the elements.
Carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin isomers, further protect the skin by filtering blue light and thus block formation of melanin pathways which leads to an overall lighter skin. Along with blue light filtering, avocado oil also aids and fights against free radicals, slowing down and preventing the harmful effects of sun damage caused by UV rays.
Avocado also contains potassium which is important for new skin cell growth with this renewal cycle being part of what keeps your skin soft and supple.
Avocado oil also penetrates to the second layer of your skin, the dermal layer, to further provide deep moisturising with its oleic acid and phytosterols which is advised for people with dry and sensitive skin.
As an emollient the lecithin contained in avocado oil softens and moisturises the skin which helps with dry, flaky or rough patches on the skin. Applied regularly the results are amazing and you can definitely expect smoother, softer and more hydrated skin. Lecithin acts like a lubricant and helps the enhancement of collagen metabolism. Any increase in collagen production leads to improved suppleness and elasticity of the skin.
BENEFITS OF AVOCADO OIL FOR HAIR
Avocado oil helps reducing dandruff on the scalp by keeping the skin on the scalp well hydrated and elastic which prevents the scalp from drying out and flacking. It is also important to note that if your dandruff is caused by seborrheic dermatitis you should avoid avocado oil due to its oleic acid which is known to worsen the flakiness.
Antioxidants and vitamins in avocado oil helps heal the dry, damaged and inflamed skin or scalp associated with psoriasis and eczema.
Avocado oil being high in monounsaturated fats is perfect for hair which helps it soak deep into the hair follicles nourishing the scalp from within. Avocado oil also forms a small thin layer on the hair which makes it more flexible which prevents breakage by lubricating the hair strand. The added layer on the hair also forms a protective barrier which aids against environmental pollutants and UV rays.
Avocado oil is also great for detangling hair. By gently combing a small amount of oil through your hair it will amazingly begin to unknot.