Plukenetia Volubilis Seed Oil
Seed oil of a South American vine – record content of omega-3 (up to 50%). Restores the lipid barrier and reduces water loss. Non-comedogenic, pregnancy-safe.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Barrier restoration via omega-3. Confirmed in small clinical studies. Moderate evidence base.
- Gonzales GF et al. Toxicol Mech Methods. 2014;24(1):60-9. PMID 24090048
How to read tiers A–F
- BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Dry, Sensitive, Normal, Combination
About this ingredient
Sacha inchi oil is a vegetable oil obtained by cold pressing the seeds of Plukenetia volubilis (a South American vine in the Euphorbiaceae family). INCI: Plukenetia Volubilis Seed Oil. Unique fatty-acid profile: alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3) at 45-50%, linoleic (omega-6) at 35-40%, oleic at 8-10%. This is a record for omega-3 among vegetable oils, comparable to flaxseed but with better oxidative stability thanks to natural tocopherols (~200 mg/100 g). In cosmetics it works as a barrier restorer: omega-3 integrate into the lipid matrix of the stratum corneum, reduce TEWL and lower transepidermal inflammation. Suitable for atopic, rosacea-prone skin, eczema and psoriasis. Use levels run from 1 to 10% in creams, up to 100% as an oil product. Pregnancy safety. A food and cosmetic ingredient with a history of use in Peru. Skin absorption into the systemic circulation is minimal. No teratogenic effects are described. Skin profile. Low irritation and allergen potential. Non-comedogenic (Fulton 0-1). Suitable for dry, sensitive and atopic skin. Standalone active effect – confirmed in small clinical studies for reducing TEWL and skin dryness. Moderate evidence (B); larger RCTs are needed.
Frequently asked questions
Is Plukenetia Volubilis Seed Oil safe during pregnancy?
Plukenetia Volubilis Seed Oil is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Plukenetia Volubilis Seed Oil for?
Plukenetia Volubilis Seed Oil suits: dry, sensitive, normal, combination.
What is Plukenetia Volubilis Seed Oil and what does it do in cosmetics?
Seed oil of a South American vine – record content of omega-3 (up to 50%).
Is Plukenetia Volubilis Seed Oil comedogenic?
On the Fulton scale 1/5 – very low comedogenicity. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
What's the INCI name for Plukenetia Volubilis Seed Oil?
The INCI name is Plukenetia Volubilis Seed Oil. It may also appear as: Sacha Inchi Oil, Inca Inchi Oil, Sacha inchi.
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