oil
Meadowfoam Seed Oil
A uniquely stable plant oil with an unusual >95% C20+ very long chain fatty acid composition. Used in colour cosmetic formulations and hair care for its exceptional oxidative stability and dry emollient feel.
Benefits
- Exceptional oxidative stability — shelf life superior to most plant oils
- Dry, non-greasy emollient texture
- Film-forming on skin and hair surfaces
- Conditions hair and lip surfaces
- Resistant to rancidity without antioxidant supplementation
Example uses
- Eyeshadow stick formulas
- Lip cosmetics
- Hair treatment serums
- Silicone-free hair shine products
- Stable botanical face oil blends
Mechanism of action
The very long chain fatty acid composition (eicosenoic and docosenoic acids) creates a highly ordered, low-fluidity lipid film that resists oxidation. The C20+ fatty acid chain length is too long for typical lipid oxidation pathways. This stable film lubricates skin and hair surfaces via van der Waals adhesion without oxidising over time.
Clinical evidence · Moderate
Stability characterised in multiple oxidative stress studies. Safety confirmed by CIR. No active dermatological mechanism claims.
Effective concentration range
5–15%
Formulation notes
Liquid at room temperature; extremely low viscosity. The unusual fatty acid profile (primarily C20:1, C22:1) makes it chemically distinct from all common plant oils. No antioxidant supplementation needed.
Watchouts
Higher cost than common plant oils. Environmental profile generally positive. No significant safety concerns.
Market positioning
Sold as uniquely stable plant oil. The oxidative stability claim is one of the most defensible botanical oil USPs — genuinely differentiated from high-PUFA oils.
Comedogenicity
1 / 5
Sensitisation risk
Low
INCI & aliases
Limnanthes Alba Seed Oil
limnanthes alba seed oil · meadowfoam oil
Clean beauty perception
Strongly accepted in clean beauty. Low comedogenicity, sustainable American production (Pacific Northwest), minimal processing.
Related ingredients
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