Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Oil

Best

Emollient

Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Oil at a glance

  • Plant-derived oil more commonly known as flaxseed oil
  • Significant source of omega fatty acids
  • Enhance skin’s hydration by preventing moisture loss
  • Can also have antioxidant properties

Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Oil description

_Linum usitastissimum_ (linseed) seed oil is more commonly known as flaxseed oil. It’s a significant plant source of omega fatty acids, primarily an omega-3 fatty acid (linolenic acid) that’s been shown to have a soothing effect on skin. [br] [br] These polyunsaturated fatty acids, which also include oleic, linoleic, palmitic and stearic acids, enhance skin’s hydration by preventing moisture loss. Linseed/flax oil has been shown to penetrate skin’s uppermost layers easily, carrying other beneficial ingredients with it (but those ingredients also have to be oil soluble so, for example, linseed wouldn’t be a good carrier for water-soluble vitamin C but is great for delivering oil-soluble vitamin E).[br] [br] Linseed oil is also a top source of lignans, phenolic plant compounds that have antioxidant ability.

Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Oil references

  • Drug Development and Industrial Pharmacy, September 2019, pages 1,451-1,458
  • African Journal of Traditional, Complementary, and Alternative Medicine, March 2017, pages 280-286
  • Journal of Food Science and Technology, September 2014, pages 1,633-1,653
  • Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, June 2011, ePublication

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.