Science
Mechanism of Action
This oil's efficacy stems from its high concentration of essential fatty acids, including omega-3, omega-6, linoleic, oleic, and alpha-linolenic acids, which are crucial for reinforcing the skin's natural barrier and minimizing transepidermal water loss (TEWL), thereby enhancing hydration and suppleness. Its robust antioxidant profile, featuring vitamin E and ellagic acid, effectively neutralizes free radicals, safeguarding skin from premature aging and aiding in environmental damage repair. Phytosterols within the oil provide anti-inflammatory benefits, calming and soothing irritated skin. Further research suggests its potential to stimulate collagen production, improve skin elasticity, and reduce the appearance of fine lines. Additionally, it may assist in regulating sebum production and evening out skin tone due to natural vitamin C, while its emollient properties leave skin feeling soft and smooth.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Low confidenceN/A
Key findings
- 01 In assays on normal human dermal fibroblast (NHDF) cells, cold-pressed (CP) and certain supercritical carbon dioxide extracted (SCO2E) wild strawberry seed oils demonstrated non-cytotoxic effects in LDH leaching and SRB assays at concentrations between 0.5% and 5.0%. However, SCO2E oils extracted for 15 and 30 minutes showed cytotoxicity in the MTT test, with CC50 values at 3.4% and 5.5% respectively. This suggests extraction method and duration significantly influence the oil's cellular safety profile.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
Fragaria Vesca Seed Oil is considered an active ingredient due to its rich composition of essential fatty acids, vitamins (E, C), ellagic acid, and phytosterols, all of which contribute directly to skin health, barrier function, and antioxidant protection, rather than merely serving as a filler.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
The oil is recognized for its inherent stability and resistance to rancidity, attributed to its high antioxidant content. For maintaining its peak quality and effectiveness, it should be stored in a sealed container, protected from light, in a cool and dry environment. Evidence from Fragaria vesca extract-based hydrogels indicates potential degradation, such as browning and increased fluidity, upon exposure to temperatures of 40°C or direct sunlight, suggesting the oil may also exhibit similar sensitivities to heat and light.
Safety
Safety Profile
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel concluded 'insufficient data' for Fragaria Vesca Seed Oil's safety in 2010, specifically noting a lack of chemical composition data (fatty acid profiles). They indicated that with such data, it would likely be considered safe as used. No updated CIR report affirming 'safe' status post-submission of fatty acid profiles was found. A key clinical study revealed that while cold-pressed and some supercritical carbon dioxide (SCO2E) extracted wild strawberry seed oils were non-cytotoxic, specific SCO2E extracts (15 and 30 minutes) showed cytotoxicity at 3.4% and 5.5% (CC50). The plant *Fragaria vesca* is generally categorized as safe (Class 1) with no expected clinically relevant interactions, according to an EU herbal monograph.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
While Fragaria Vesca Seed Oil offers promising benefits for skin barrier, hydration, and antioxidant protection, its CIR status of 'insufficient data' and specific cytotoxicity findings for certain extraction methods warrant cautious assessment for precision skincare formulations.
Related
Similar Ingredients
Finding similar ingredients…