Extract Characteristics
Supercritical Fluid Extraction (SFE) is a process for obtaining lipid fractions, designed to preserve temperature- and oxidation-sensitive components while minimizing solvent residues. The raw material has a characteristic oily scent, is insoluble in water, and is intended for use in formulations where sensory comfort, epidermal barrier support, and antioxidant protection are key.
The most important feature of this oil is its squalene content (CAS 111-02-4) at 6.03% (specification: >6%). Squalene is a natural, physiologically compatible lipid component found, among other places, in sebum, valued in cosmetics for its effect on skin softness, elasticity, and perceived hydration. In amaranth oil, squalene coexists with fatty acid fractions and tocopherols.
Properties and Benefits of Amaranth Seed Extract
The extract’s lipid profile indicates a high content of unsaturated fatty acids, particularly linoleic acid (48.73%) and oleic acid (25.36%), alongside saturated fractions such as palmitic acid (19.62%) and stearic acid (3.45%). This composition supports the creation of a pleasant, ‘nourishing’ oil phase: linoleic acid is typically associated with caring for skin that requires lipid barrier reinforcement and improved comfort, while the oleic fraction contributes elasticity and good application properties.
Concurrently, the raw material stands out with its high tocopherol content: α-tocopherol 759 ppm and γ-tocopherol 413 ppm (with requirements of >500 ppm and >100 ppm, respectively). Tocopherols play a dual role in formulations: on one hand, they are natural antioxidants supporting lipid protection against oxidation; on the other, they are a skincare ingredient that aligns well with the concept of ‘antioxidant care’ products.
In technological practice, amaranth oil is often chosen for formulations designed to improve skin softness and elasticity, enhance the sensation of ‘lipid hydration,’ and increase comfort for dry or temporarily irritated skin.
Applications of Amaranth Extract
Due to its oily form and water insolubility, amaranth extract performs well as an oil phase component in a wide range of products. It is a natural additive for O/W and W/O creams and emulsions, body lotions, skincare oils, and oil serums, as well as protective formulations where improving skin comfort and reducing dryness are important. It is well-suited for ‘premium lipid care’ cosmetics, as it combines squalene, unsaturated fatty acids, and tocopherols in a single fraction.
In facial formulations, it can be an oil phase component that builds a sensation of softness and smoothness, while in body products, it supports the effect of nourishment and improved skin elasticity. Due to its fatty acid profile, the raw material may also be of interest in skincare aimed at strengthening the epidermal lipid layer (e.g., for dry skin or skin requiring regeneration).
The product has no carrier and is stabilized with the addition of 0.5% natural rosemary antioxidant (E392). This is particularly important for those designing formulations based on ‘clean label’ and natural antioxidant systems.
