Vegetable oils

The vegetable oils are becoming increasingly popular for their benefits for skin, hair and even health. They have active ingredients which give them exceptional properties in terms of cosmetic care and well-being.

If you are looking to buy natural oils online, then this article is for you! Find out everything you need to know about these precious plant elixirs. How to choose them safely on the internet.

The different categories of vegetable oils

There is a wide variety of vegetable oils from different plant sources, but they can be grouped into three broad categories:

1. Virgin vegetable oils : obtained from the first cold pressing of oil seeds or fruits, they are unrefined and retain all their therapeutic and nutritional properties.
2. Refined vegetable oils : undergoing a refining process that includes deodorisation. Bleached and filtered, they are less rich in active ingredients but have greater stability and a more neutral odour.
3. Organic vegetable oils : certified by a label guaranteeing their quality. Their traceability and compliance with ecological production standards.

The most popular vegetable oils

Here are some of the natural oils most appreciated for their cosmetic properties:

• Argan oil : rich in vitamin E and unsaturated fatty acids. It is particularly suitable for dry, sensitive or mature skin, as well as dry, damaged hair.
• Coconut oil : nourishing, softening and protective. It is suitable for all skin and hair types, but is particularly beneficial for dry skin and frizzy hair.
• Jojoba oil : regulates sebum and repairs the skin. It is ideal for combination to oily skin and oily hair.
• Castor oil : Fortifying, purifying and stimulating growth, it is recommended for eyelashes, eyebrows, nails and fine or fragile hair.
• Rose hip oil : healing, regenerating and anti-ageing. It is invaluable for skin prone to stretch marks, scars, wrinkles and pigmentation spots.

How can I safely buy natural plant oils online?

E-traders specialising in products vegan cosmetics and natural oils are plentiful on the internet. Here are a few tips to help you make the right choice and buy your vegetable oils online with peace of mind:

• Check the quality of the oils on offer

Choose sites that offer a range of virgin or organic vegetable oils, certified by a recognised label. Present a detailed technical sheet including their extraction method. Their geographical origin, fatty acid composition and specific properties.

Beware of low prices, which are often synonymous with mediocre quality.

• Read customer reviews

Consumer reviews can be very useful in assessing the quality of a merchant's products and customer service. Don't hesitate to consult the reviews left by previous buyers and to share your own experience after your purchase.

• Compare prices and terms of sale

Before confirming your order, take the time to compare prices. The delivery costs and guarantees offered by several sites. Also check the return and refund conditions in the event of a problem with your parcel or if the oils do not suit your needs.

• Pay attention to the expiry date

Vegetable oils are natural products with a limited shelf life, especially if they are virgin and unrefined. Make sure that the expiry date is sufficiently far in the future to allow you to use your oil in the best possible conditions.

How do you store your vegetable oils bought online?

Once received, it is important to store your vegetable oils properly to preserve their qualities and effectiveness:

• Store your oils away from light and heat: Choose a cool, dry, dark place such as a closed cupboard or wardrobe.
• Close the bottles properly after use: This prevents oxidation and degradation of the active ingredients contained in the oils.
• Use opaque, airtight containers: Opt for tinted glass bottles with screw caps. Use a spray or pump to remove the oil without contaminating it.
• Respect the expiry date: do not use a vegetable oil that has passed its best-before date, even if it still appears to be in good condition.

By following these tips, you'll be able to take full advantage of the benefits of the natural plant oils you buy online, and look after your skin and hair while respecting the environment and animals.