Vegetable oils are mainly composed of fatty acids and also, in smaller quantities, unsaponifiables. These are where a large part of the active agents with excellent properties are found, which are lacking in esterified, hydrogenated or mineral oils.
Unsaponifiables are the elements that will not be transformed into soap during a reaction of a fatty substance with an alkali.
The proportion of unsaponifiables in vegetable oils varies. Generally, it ranges from 1 to 5%, reaching 10% for shea butter and 50% for jojoba vegetable oil.
Here they are and their role:
Polyphenols: antioxidants
Phytosterols: healing, restorative, anti-inflammatory, anti-aging of the skin, protective against the action of UV rays
Carotenoids: antioxidants, regenerators, repairers, protectors, collagen stimulators
Vitamin D: moisturizing
Vitamin E (tocopherol): protective, anti-aging, antioxidant
Vitamin K: limits redness
Enzymes: anti-aging, protective
Resinous esters: healing, disinfecting.
We therefore find them in cosmetics because they have a truly remarkable effect on the skin! Hence the importance of choosing your oils carefully!
Ref: https://www.sauvonsnotrepeau.fr/insaponifiable-tresor-insoupconne-huile-vegetale/
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