Chia Seed Oil

Botanical name: Salvia hispanica

INCI: Salvia hispanica (Chia) seed oil  

A lot can be said for the the little chia seed.  It is  highly beneficial  for general health and well being as well as for maintaining healthy skin.

It is high in both amino and essential fatty acids, both vital for general health. Chia is  also low in cholesterol and salt but high in anti-oxidants and minerals.  Being high in soluble and insoluble fibre makes it excellent for maintaining healthy digestion.  Chia seed has also been shown to help regulate sugar levels in diabetes.

What has this got to do with the skin I hear you ask; Well, such a highly nutritious food can only have a beneficial effect on the skin when included in a healthy balanced diet.  It's special profile can also do wonders for the complexion when used topically.

Chia Seed Oil is a remarkable and stable source of omega-3 essential fatty acids (up to 65%) and omega-6 essential fatty acids (up to 21%). The natural antioxidant composition of Organic Chia Seed Oil helps to maintain the stability of the oil. The oil is also a noteworthy source of amino acids, B-vitamins and minerals, including zinc.

Dr. Anne Dermatol (2010) studied the effect of chia seed oil on patients with end stage kidney disease. All patients had dry and itchy skin as a result of their condition.  A topical formulation containing 4% chia seed oils were applied for 8 weeks. At the end of the study they found  a marked improvement in levels of itching as well as an increase in skin moisture levels and skin barrier function.

The positive effects of the oil were put down to the protective and skin restructuring gamma-linolenic acid found in omega-6 and anti-inflammatory effects of alpha-linolenic acid found in omega 3. These properties are also beneficial for aging skin as they help support the skins natural function and help keep the skin firm, moisturised and free of wrinkles.

Chia Seeds are a potent source of vitamin B and zinc which helps balance skin oils and helps control acne breakouts. It is also high in antioxidants such as caffeic acid, myricetin, quercetin and chlorogenic acid. The rich blend of anti-oxidants help fight against age related free radical damage including those caused by the environment - oxygen, UV and pollutants.

The combination of essential fatty acids, vitamin B complex, zinc and powerful antioxidants make this oil a powerful force against a multitude of skin problems linked to inflammation including skin ageing , dry itchy skin conditions and acne.