What it is
Plukenetia Volubilis Seed Oil is obtained from the seeds of Plukenetia volubilis, a vine native to the Amazon region, commonly called sacha inchi. The oil is notably high in polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly alpha-linolenic (omega-3) and linoleic (omega-6) acids, which makes it a lightweight, replenishing emollient. In sunscreens it is used to condition skin and improve spreadability while contributing a non-heavy feel.
Safety & warnings
The oil is generally well tolerated. Because it is very high in polyunsaturated fatty acids, it can oxidize over time, so formulas typically include antioxidants; oxidized oil is more likely to be irritating. People with tree-nut or seed sensitivities may wish to patch test, and oil-rich textures may not suit everyone with very acne-prone skin.
Origin & sourcing
Natural; cold-pressed or extracted from the seeds of the sacha inchi plant (Plukenetia volubilis).
History
Sacha inchi has long been cultivated in parts of South America, particularly the Peruvian Amazon, where its seeds have traditionally been used as food; the seed oil was later adopted in cosmetics as a plant-based emollient.
Questions everyone asks
What is sacha inchi oil good for in skincare?
It is a lightweight emollient rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, used to soften and condition skin and to improve the feel and spread of a formula.
Does this oil feel greasy?
It is relatively light compared with heavier plant oils, but it is still an oil, so the overall richness depends on how much is used and what else is in the formula.