Cotton oil is a vegetable, not very popular in Russia and Europe. The main producers and consumers are the countries of Asia and America. Its production is a by-product of cotton production. Oil is made from cotton seeds and has a low cost price. But, nevertheless, he is characterized by a number of positive qualities, which should be told.
Chemical composition of cottonseed oil
The quality of the oil depends on the place of its cultivation and the grade of cotton and has in its composition such acids:
- Myristic - provides better penetration into the skin of components used for cosmetic purposes;
- palmitic - improves the synthesis of collagen, hyaluron;
- stearic acid - helps restore the protective function of the skin;
- arachine - has an anti-inflammatory effect;
- palmitoleinovaya - actively promotes the regeneration of mature skin;
- Oleinic - activates lipid metabolism;
- linoleic - vitamin F, contributes to the preservation of skin hydrobalance, is a UF - filter.
Application of cottonseed oil
Cotton oil, used for food use, undergoes the process of refining and deodorizing. Has a slight sour taste. It is used in cooking as a basis for dressing salads, as well as for frying.
Oil that has not been refined is toxic due to the high content of gossypol (a poisonous substance) and is used in the chemical industry (for the production of drying oil and lubricants).
Because of its acid composition, cottonseed oil has a number of useful properties:
- is a natural antioxidant and immunoregulator;
- stimulates the regeneration of the skin and has a healing effect (especially with burns );
- improves the quality of the skin, helps restore the structure of cells and regulates lipid balance;
- restores male potency;
- protects against ultraviolet radiation.
High content of A-tocopherol (vitamin E) - up to 70% - makes cottonseed oil irreplaceable in cosmetology. It can be used as an independent moisturizer for withering and dry skin , and as a component for masks and creams not only in professional cosmetics, but also for home use.
- Use cotton hair oil in a mixture with castor or burdock, but its volume should not exceed 8% of the total mass. A couple drops of your favorite essential oil will make this mask even more effective.
- Cotton oil, added to your cream, will additionally moisturize the skin and help smooth out fine wrinkles.
- Oil in the composition of household soap will give a stable gentle foam and enhance the softening effect.
The optimal shelf life of cottonseed oil is 1 year.