Lupinus Albus (White Lupine) Seed Oil

Lupinus albus (white lupine) seed oil is a non-fragrant plant oil whose unsaturated fatty acid content consists primarily of oleic and erucic acids. Oleic acid can help beneficial compounds in plant oils and extracts penetrate further into skin, while omega-9 fatty acid erucic acid works with the other fatty acids in this plant oil to hydrate and strengthen skin. Lupine seed oil also contains omega-3 linolenic acid and omega-6 linoleic acid, both of which help calm skin and visibly repair its barrier. Moving away from fatty acid content, white lupine oil is also high in protein and a good source of the hydrating amino acid lysine. Note that the seed oil from this plants comes in bitter and sweet varieties; the bitter form contains a much higher amount of substances known as alkaloids, which are potential skin sensitiser. The sweet form, which is what Paula's Choice uses, only contains trace levels of these problematic compounds, too low to upset skin. The sweet form of this plant oil is a better source of antioxidant vitamin E, but both types are respectable sources of antioxidants.

Related ingredients: Linolenic Acid Linoleic Acid