Avocado, well-known for its healthy fat content, is a nutrient-dense fruit that is high in fiber and potassium and aids in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins D, K, A, and E. Avocados are also high in antioxidants such as zeaxanthin and lutein, as well as vitamin E. Avocado oil has piqued the interest of the cosmetics and food industries due to its lipid content, which contains monounsaturated fatty acids, which have been associated to reduced inflammation and improved cardiovascular health. In addition, it has also been known to aid with skin disorders such as psoriasis, wrinkles, and stretch marks.
What Exactly Is Avocado Oil?
Cold-pressed olive oil extraction is analogous to manually extracting oil from an avocado. After removing the skin and pit, the flesh, which contains about 30% oil, is ground into a paste and slowly churned for 40–60 minutes at 113 F–122 F. The water and oil drippings from the churning process are subsequently separated using a high-speed centrifuge. Because of its high quantities of chlorophyll and carotenoids, this extracted extra-virgin avocado oil is emerald green. It has a smoky-butter mushroom flavor. Avocado oil has a fatty acid composition that is high in oleic acid and palmitic acid, as well as a high concentration of polyphenols (antioxidant-rich micronutrients) such as tyrosol and hydroxytyrosol. In terms of fat composition, one avocado has 60% monounsaturated fatty acids, which is similar to olive oil, hazelnuts, and macadamia nuts. Linoleic acid, linolenic acid, and docosadienoic acid are among the other fatty acids contained in avocados.
Avocado Oil’s Skin Benefits
Avocado oil, due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory characteristics, can help hydrate, alleviate, and soothe a variety of skin issues, including dry skin with a low amount of sebum (an oily, waxy material generated by glands), chapped skin with a rough texture and a predisposition to split. When paired with vitamin B12, psoriasis symptoms such as itching skin and elevated skin lesions are reduced (although more research is required to back early studies). Facial damage is caused by frequent exposure to ultraviolet rays such as those emitted by the sun or tanning beds. Wound healing increases collagen metabolism and decreases inflammation when using either raw avocado oil or avocado oil that has been combined with other oils.
How to Make Use of It
Avocado oil may be used to hydrate your skin in a variety of ways, including:
• Use as a topical moisturizer for both the body and the face: If desired, apply a few drops of avocado oil mixed with your favorite essential oil to your skin.
• As a moisturizing hair and scalp mask: Soak your hair in oil or the mashed flesh. Use a disposable shower cap or wrap your hair in plastic wrap. Depending on what condition your hair is in, leave it on for 15–30 minutes. After that, rinse thoroughly, wash, and condition.
• As a warm bath treatment: A few drops of avocado oil mixed with an essential oil can be added to bathwater, shower gel, or applied to damp skin after bathing to lock in moisture.
Avocado Oil Side Effects
Although allergic responses to avocado oil are uncommon, a patch test is usually recommended to be on the safe side. Before using avocado oil or any cosmetic product containing it, apply the oil to a small section of your skin (like your hand or arm) and wait 24–48 hours to observe if there is an adverse reaction. Hives, itching, shortness of breath and or nose congestion are all possible symptoms.Anaphylaxis, a potentially fatal allergic reaction, can develop under challenging situations. Contact dermatitis is a red, itchy rash caused by coming into contact with a chemical you are allergic to. If you have an avocado allergy, consult your doctor before applying avocado oil to your skin to ensure that it is safe to use.
Kim’s Final Thoughts….
Like its cousin olive oil, Avocado oil contains nutrient-rich components that can provide numerous health benefits. In addition, avocado oil has various characteristics that might assist your skin in ways other than hydrating it when applied topically. For example, when avocado oil is blended with fragrant essential oils, it can be used to replace a variety of skincare items on a budget. However, like with any substance applied to your skin, a patch test should be performed before use. Avocado oil is available at your local supermarket or health food store. Keep avocado oil in a cabinet and out of direct sunlight for good storage. If you choose to store avocado oil in the refrigerator, an opened container will keep for around eight months.
