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Moumoujus

COD LIVER OIL.

Valuable CAS 8001-69-2 / FRAGRANCE, SKIN CONDITIONING, SKIN PROTECTING

A nutrient-dense biological lipid extracted from the livers of cod, prized in precision skincare for its high concentrations of Omega-3 fatty acids and naturally occurring Vitamins A and D. It functions as a potent regenerative agent that reinforces the skin's lipid barrier while accelerating tissue repair.

Summary

Skin protecting Skin conditioning Biological occlusive Antimicrobial Barrier repair

Science

Mechanism of Action

Cod liver oil operates through a multi-pathway approach: Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) integrate into the lipid bilayer to restore barrier integrity and modulate inflammatory markers. Its natural Vitamin A content stimulates cellular turnover and collagen synthesis, while Vitamin D supports antimicrobial peptide production and immune regulation. Topically, it forms a biomimetic occlusive seal that drastically reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and provides an antibacterial environment against Gram-positive pathogens.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 5–25%
Optimal

13.56%

Key findings

  1. 01 A 25% concentration was clinically observed to significantly accelerate both epithelial and vascular components of wound healing in vivo.
  2. 02 FDA monographs validate efficacy as a skin protectant at concentrations ranging from 5% to 13.56%.
  3. 03 In vitro evaluations of a 20% fatty acid extract demonstrated robust antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Commonly dusted
Min. effective
5%
Red flag below
1%

Due to its characteristic fishy odor and high susceptibility to oxidation, many commercial formulas 'dust' this ingredient at levels below 1%. However, clinical skin protection benefits and FDA-recognized efficacy require a minimum threshold of 5%.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH 4.2 – 5.6
0 7 14

Stability

Highly prone to rancidity due to polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) content; requires stabilization with antioxidants like Tocopherol. Precise manufacturing can mitigate its natural odor.

Synergies

  • Vitamin E (stabilization)
  • Waxes (texture consistency)
  • Zinc Oxide (barrier protection)

Conflicts

  • High pH environments (>6.0)
  • Strong oxidizing agents
  • Pumping mechanisms (risk of oil/wax phase separation)

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Deferred evaluation
Max tested
13.56%
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Low

Safety evaluation is deferred by the CIR as the FDA already regulates it as an OTC active. While topical application is safe, high oral intake carries a risk of hypervitaminosis A or D.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
No Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Moderate

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

An exceptional bioactive lipid for barrier recovery and wound healing, provided it is formulated at therapeutic levels and stabilized against oxidation.

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