Oil from passion-flower seeds. Up to 70% linoleic acid – a high omega-6 contribution to the barrier, especially for acne-prone skin. Contains tocopherols and carotenoids as natural antioxidants. Non-comedogenic and pregnancy-safe.
Topical application
CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus.
Oil with a very high linoleic acid share – a physiological donor for stratum-corneum ceramides. A series of in-vivo studies show reduced comedones with topical high-linoleic oils (Letawe 1998, Darmstadt 2002). Antioxidant activity is documented in vitro.
Passion-flower seed oil is cold-pressed from the seeds of Passiflora incarnata or related species (P. edulis – passion fruit/maracuja). Its fatty-acid profile is unusual: a very high share of linoleic acid (60-75%), compared with 5-15% in olive oil and ~10-15% in avocado oil. INCI: Passiflora Incarnata Seed Oil. Biologically active profile. Linoleic acid is a structural component of ceramides 1 and 6 in the stratum corneum. Acne patients show lower linoleic acid and higher oleic acid in their sebum – under the 1991 hypothesis this is part of comedone formation. Topical oils high in linoleic acid normalize this profile and reduce new lesions in a series of in-vivo studies. Additionally the oil contains tocopherols (~150 mg/100 g), phytosterols, and carotenoids that act as antioxidants in the finished formula and slow the oxidation of other sensitive components. Use levels are 1-10%. Pregnancy safety. Topical use is safe. Systemic absorption through intact skin is minimal. No teratogenic effects in the literature. Oral passion-flower extracts in large doses during pregnancy are discouraged (sedation and a theoretical uterotonic risk), but this does not apply to cosmetic use of the seed oil. Skin tolerance. Low irritation and allergen profile. Non-comedogenic (score 0-1). Suitable for acne-prone, sensitive, and dry skin. In oily skin it helps normalize sebum quality and balance the barrier.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeSuitable for
Passiflora Incarnata Seed Oil is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Passiflora Incarnata Seed Oil suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
Oil from passion-flower seeds.
On the Fulton scale 1/5 – very low comedogenicity. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
The INCI name is Passiflora Incarnata Seed Oil. It may also appear as: Passion Fruit Seed Oil, Maracuja Oil, Масло семян пассифлоры.
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