Avocado oil is extracted by cold-pressing from the fruit of the Persea Gratissima tree, which is native to South America. The avocado is one of the most nutritious fruits. Its major constituents include lipids and vitamins. The predominant fatty acid in avocado oil is oleic acid, with smaller amounts of palmitic, linoleic, myristic and arachidic acids. Avocado oil contains vitamins A, E and D, proteins and copper. Avocado fruit contains 2% proteins, the amino acids histidine and lecithin, phytosterols, squalane and vitamins C, PP and B2, as well as minerals, including potassium and iron. Avocado is used in natural medicine to strengthen the bones, improve eyesight and treat bloating, the common cold, catarrh, headaches and neuralgia. It stimulates appetite, nourishes the nervous system, normalises the menstrual cycle and relieves cough. Avocado oil is highly valued and widely used as a cosmetic ingredient in products which control the hydro-lipid balance and provide protection, regeneration and nourishment for the skin. The oil supplies fatty acids to the skin – thanks to transesterification reactions which take place in the skin, the fatty acids are re-distributed among the components of biological membranes and the substances supplied along with the oil. As a result, the fatty acids from avocado oil fill the areas where the natural lipid barrier has been compromised. This process is especially important for the replenishment of polyunsaturated fatty acids, including linoleic acid. Linoleic acid deficiency can occur as a result of oxidation caused by free radicals. The deficiency often leads to impaired functioning of the biological membranes which serve as barriers to protect cells from excessive water loss. Dry skin is characterised by an elevated level of saturated fatty acids and a decreased concentration of linoleic acid in corneocyte membranes. However, as soon as a cosmetic product rich in the acid is applied to the skin, the normal fatty acid ratio and proper epidermal function are restored. Cosmetic products formulated with avocado oil form a protective film on the surface of the skin, preventing moisture loss and providing deep skin hydration. In addition, the vitamin E and carotene contained in the oil strengthen the lipid barrier by protecting the lipids and lipoproteins in skin cell membranes. Avocado oil is used in products for dry, damaged and cracked skin. It effectively promotes the healing of minor skin injuries and erosions. It is mild for the skin, absorbs quickly, demonstrates excellent penetration, emollient and occlusive properties, and provides UV protection. It is used extensively in formulations designed for the care and treatment of skin with psoriasis. It is also valued as an ingredient in lipid-replenishing and anti-aging creams. It is used in its basic form for massage, which improves skin firmness and has a relaxing, regenerating and soothing effect.
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