Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Oil

Linseed oil is a fatty oil pressed (or extracted) from the seeds of the flax plant. Flax is cultivated as a fiber crop in the production of linen, but the seeds also have many important uses.

Flaxseed oil (or linseed oil) is a very special vegetable oil because it is mainly made up of polyunsaturated linolenic acid (up to 50%). This makes it very desirable as a nutritional supplement, as well as a skincare ingredient. Flaxseed oil is suitable for all skin types but may feel heavier on the skin than other oils with a similar composition. It also has emollient and occlusive properties.

Fun fact: linseed oil is used in woodworking because, if left in the open air, it can turn into a solid varnish (this is called ‘drying oil’). This process generates heat inside of the oil. There have been accidents in the past where rags soaked with linseed oil were thrown in a big pile and, after some time, overheated and spontaneously caught fire.

Linseed oil is listed among common comedogenic ingredients by acne.org.