Did you know that your skin needs both water and oil to remain healthy and radiant? For that reason, we love using cold pressed plant oils in our organic skin care products for their nourishing, moisturizing qualities. From jojoba oil to clarifying sage oil, we’re attuned to the synergistic benefits that plant oils have for your skin. Pomegranate seed oil is one of our chosen hero ingredients among plant-based anti-agers. Today we’re spotlighting its impressive skin-loving properties and organic cosmetic applications.
Pomegranates are seeded fruits that grow in Mediterranean climates. Their inner wall is a white and spongy pulp, surrounding hundreds of small chambers containing seeds filled with dark red juice. The seeds are edible and highly nutritious. They come with a sweet and sour taste, tangy aroma, and high levels of Vitamin C, Vitamin K and dietary fiber.
In terms of nutritional value, pomegranate fruit is unrivaled. In addition, it contains protein, folate, potassium, and a set of powerful plant compounds with medicinal properties. Plant compounds refer to phytochemicals produced by plants, usually as a defense mechanism against environmental stressors. They exhibit free radical scavenging behavior, meaning that they can reduce cellular damage and thus slow the aging process. They can have powerful health benefits when used in our diet and on our skin!
One of the most powerful plant compounds found in pomegranates are punicalagins. It’s a powerful antioxidant found in the juice and peel. It’s known to inhibit unhealthy cell proliferation, and even reduce the size of various cancer cells.
The show-stealing superfood also contains three types of antioxidants. Tannins, anthocyanins, and ellagic acid are found in pomegranate at levels three times more than in red wine or green tea. They help prevent cellular damage, and have exhibited promising anti-inflammatory, anti oxidative stress, and anti-carcinogenic potential.
The other powerful plant compound present in this show-stealing superfood is called punicic acid. Punicic acid occurs in pomegranate seed oil. It’s the main fatty acid within the oil, comprising close to 70% of the oil’s chemical composition. It’s an omega 5 fatty acid that reduces skin inflammation and aids in skin repair. This makes it an incredible tonic to use for scarring, discoloration and lesions on the skin leftover from acne or dermatitis.
Punicic acid is also an effective hydrant, preventing moisture loss through strengthening the skin’s outer dermal layers. It exhibits strong anti-inflammatory action, meaning that the natural oil is effective for reducing redness, acne, or irritation. And its antioxidant properties means that it fends off free radicals. In other words, pomegranate seed oil is an effective anti-aging remedy that keeps skin collagen production at a healthy clip. A small amount of the oil penetrates deeply into the skin without leaving a greasy residue or clogging pores. Its anti-inflammatory action and soothing properties means that it won’t exacerbate skin with higher levels of oil production.
The pomegranate seed oil we use is extracted through a cold pressing process that preserves the nutrients. The nutrient rich oil is best preserved and maintained through cold pressing. This ensures that the powerful antioxidants and flavonoids present in the oil aren’t compromised through heat treatment. This is followed by a careful filtering process. The pressed oil goes through a series of filters that separates the peel and pulp from the oil. The final process involves passing the oil through a thin sieve to ensure that all impurities are removed. Throughout the entire operation, the oil remains within a certain temperature range that respects the integrity of the original nutrients.
Pomegranate oil is a star ingredient in our cult favorite Restorative Facial Oil. It’s an organic cold-pressed blend with a formula comprised of several antioxidant rich oils. They work synergistically to produce anti-aging benefits, deep hydration, and enhanced skin elasticity. Pomegranate imparts the Restorative Facial Oil with powerful anti-inflammatory benefits, and the ability to fight bacterial and fungal infections. Oily skin types rejoice! It’s an allstar in that it imparts both anti-aging benefits and anti-acneic benefits to the formula. Multi-purpose in the widest sense, it heals lingering skin issues while preventing future damage. Overall, the formula visually enhances tone, texture, and clarity of skin of all ages. Use as a facial massage oil to get the most out of your beauty routine.
The pomegranate seed oil is supplemented by antioxidant rich organic rosehip oil and organic acai oil. This is one of our products that’s super popular amongst Puristry fans with sensitive skin. Although it’s ultra effective, it’s also gentle, soothing, and light enough for everyday PM use.
So where exactly should facial oil fall within your existing skin care routine? The trick is to pair it with H2O. Facial oil is an essential step to any skin care regimen because of its ability to balance skin’s existing lipid production. But without proper absorption, facial oil can’t work to the best of its ability. Proper absorption is best facilitated if you apply your oil in conjunction with water, which aids in absorption and maximum retention. Mixing your facial oil with a steam is the best bet. Apply post-hot-shower for a DIY steam facial. Achieve ultra effective absorption through applying a facial oil after a water-based toner or rich moisturizer. We’ve put together a guide around smart application here.
Looking for more plant oil deep dives? It’s true, not all oils clog your pores!
How Vitamin E Oil Can Reinvent Your Skin - Using vitamin E oil for face, neck, and body can bring your skin back to life in a big way.
The Benefits of Coconut Oil on Skin - How to include this gentle, nourishing ingredient in your skin care routine – and beyond.
Lavender Oil for Acne - How to use aromatic lavender oil for acne care and prevention.
Cynthia Knisely
June 24, 2019
I would like to try all your anti-aging skincare products