Pracaxi Oil: This little-known vegetable oil works wonders!
Little known to the general public, pracaxi oil has unique biochemical properties that make it particularly interesting in dermatology and hair care. Native to the tropical forests of the Amazon, it is exceptionally rich in fatty acids and antioxidants. What do you really need to know about this oil? What are its true effects on the skin and hair?
1. Origin and extraction
Pracaxi oil is extracted from the seeds of the tree. Pentaclethra macroloba, a species found in the wetlands of South America, particularly Brazil and Guyana. Its cold-pressed extraction method preserves all of its active components, including its unsaturated and saturated fatty acids. It is distinguished by its fluid texture, light yellow color, and peanut-like smell.
2. Biochemical composition
Pracaxi oil mainly contains:
- Oleic acid (40 to 60 %) : promotes hydration, skin repair, and has anti-inflammatory effects.
- Linoleic acid (15 to 20 %) : strengthens the skin barrier, contributes to ceramide synthesis.
- Behenic acid, stearic acid, palmitic acid : contribute to the formation of a protective film, emollient properties.
- Vitamin E and carotenoids (β-carotene) : powerful natural antioxidants.
- Phytosterols : soothing and cell-protecting agents.
3. Properties for the skin
Skin repair
Pracaxi oil is being studied for its effects on tissue regeneration. Oleic and linoleic acids promote collagen production. type III, cell proliferation and’angiogenesise (formation of new blood vessels), key stages in the healing process.
Hydration and barrier effect
Fatty acids help restore the lipid barrier of the epidermis and limit trans-epidermal water loss, making the skin more supple and resistant.
Antioxidant action
Thanks to vitamin E and carotenoids, the oil combats the effects of oxidative stress (pollution, UV rays, tobacco) by neutralizing free radicals, thereby reducing the signs of premature aging.
Soothing properties
Pracaxi oil regulates certain inflammatory mediators—such as TNF-α – helps to soothe redness, itching, and irritation of the scalp or skin.
4. Interest in hair
Hydration and fiber protection
Saturated and unsaturated fatty acids penetrate the hair cuticle, strengthening its impermeability and limiting breakage. The oil also forms a protective barrier that maintains moisture and improves elasticity.
Untangling and definition
It makes curly and frizzy hair easier to style, reduces frizz, and redefines curls without weighing down the hair fiber.
Soothing the scalp
In cases of dryness or irritation, its anti-inflammatory properties can soothe itching. It is generally used diluted in a neutral oil to limit excessive oiliness.
5. Risks and precautions for use
- General tolerance Pracaxi oil is well tolerated. It can be used by children, pregnant women, and nursing mothers.
- Comedogenic risk However, it should be avoided when used on its own on oily or acne-prone skin, due to the lack of data on its comedogenicity index.
- Conservation : Protected from light, heat, and oxygen.
- Preliminary testing recommended A skin test (inner elbow or wrist) is recommended before first use.
