Adansonia Digitata Seed Oil

_Adansonia digitata_ seed oil, AKA Baobab seed oil, is a natural, emollient skin care ingredient taken from the seeds of the _Adansonia digitata_ tree, more commonly referred to as the baobab tree. This seed oil has a rich composition that includes fatty acids and phenolic compounds. Palmitic, oleic, and linoleic acid account for most of _Adansonia digitata_ seed oil’s fatty acid content. They naturally occur in the human body, with linoleic acid being the most abundant fatty acid found within the epidermis (skin needs linoleic acid to make ceramides). When applied topically to skin, these ingredients help soothe, smooth and hydrate skin. Phenolic compounds in _Adansonia digitata_ seed oil lend themselves to the skin care ingredient’s antioxidant properties. Phenolic compounds assist in protecting skin from environmental stressors that can lead to signs of extrinsic aging, like fine lines and wrinkles. As a raw material, this skin care ingredient is a pale yellow oil. An analysis of cosmetics products concluded that _Adansonia digitata_ seed oil is used in percentages up to 0.01%, most often in leave-on formulas; however, larger amounts may be used if desired. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel concluded that Adansonia digitata seed oil is safe for use in cosmetics.