No. 101

All Ingredients: Actinidia Chinensis (Kiwi) Seed Oil

• Incidecoder Rating: Goodie
• EWG Rating: 1 (Best)
• PETA Rating: Cruelty Free & Vegan
• Origin: Cold pressed from kiwi seeds, sustainably grown in New Zealand.

Honest Research

Kiwi seed oil contains pro-health molecules, such as, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and amino acids, which help to promote a number of skin care benefits. Topical application of kiwi seed oil has been found to provide antioxidant, moisturizing, rejuvenating as well as skin-soothing properties.

Constituents such as Vitamin C and Vitamin E protect the skin from degeneration. Vitamin E helps to regenerate the skin’s top surface layers, allowing skin to feel softer and smoother. Vitamin C plays a major role in maintain the youthful aspect of the skin, which when applied topically can help to keep skin firm and supple. Most importantly, both vitamins equip kiwi with a rich source of antioxidants. Antioxidant protection is vital for neutralizing harmful free radicals present within the body as well as the environment.

Kiwi seed oil is mainly comprised of alpha linolenic acid, a key component in the omega-3 series. Fatty acids such as omega-3 play an important role in improving skin barrier function. This in turn helps the skin to retain moisture and increase hydration. Polysaccharides found in kiwi seed oil can help promote skin proliferation and rejuvenation. They work by stimulating cell activity which in turn can increase the number of structural skin benefits for a youthful look. 

For these reasons, the benefits are implemented in regenerating cosmetics and moisturizing products, which are essential for preserving the skin’s structural integrity as well as enhancing overall skin quality.

Some proof

• Fiorentino, A et. al. Identification and assessment of antioxidant capacity of phytochemicals from kiwi fruits. Journal of agricultural and food chemistry 57.10, 4148-4155 (2009)
• Quirin, K. W. Specialty Fatty Oils for Healthy Skin. Cosmetic Science Technology 16-2 (2009)
• Deters, A.M. et al. Kiwi fruit (Actinidia chinensis L.) polysaccharides exert stimulating effects on cell proliferation via enhanced growth factor receptors, energy production, and collagen synthesis of human keratinocytes, fibroblasts, and skin equivalents. Journal of cellular physiology 202.3, 717-722 (2005)

When to use

At night, before sleeping.

How to apply

Apply 2-3 drops and wait for 3-4 minutes for your skin to absorb. Repeat this until you find excess on your skin. Use a damp cloth to remove the excess.

Frequency of use

If your concern is severe, use every night. Otherwise, use every alternate night.

Safe to use during

• Menstrual pain
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Menopause

Use with other products

Mix 1 drop of every product on your palm, rub your palms, and apply the mixture. Wait for 3-4 minutes for your skin to absorb. Repeat this until you find excess on your skin. Use a damp cloth to remove the excess.

Best practices

• Keep away from children
• Patch test before use
• For external use only

Consult your doctor

For frequency of use, if you are being treated for

• Dermatitis or eczema
• Third-degree burns
• Skin cancer

Afterlife

Re-use the bottle, or empty the glass bottle and place in the recycling bin.