When creating a skin serum there are several pressed oils that make the magic, supporting the lipid barrier, stimulating collagen production, and protecting from UV and oxidative damage. Some of these oils have increased concentration when extracted using supercritical carbon dioxide (CO₂). In a way, the CO₂ extracts are a cross between an essential oil and a pressed oil.

Fats Build and Protect

These concentrated lipids harmonize well with the stratum corneum. They fill in and mimic the feel and support of the lipid barrier. Linoleic and linolenic acids restore flexibility. Palmitoleic acid (omega-7) seals micro-cracks, and tocopherols slow the chain reaction that eats collagen. The skin receives instructions from these molecules through receptors like PPAR-α and PPAR-γ. This is that world of lock-and-key, message to repair I demonstrate so often when discussing the activity of essential oils. The fatty acids and nutrient compounds in the supercritical extracts are understood in the same way.

Sea Buckthorn Berry CO₂ (Pulp and Seed)

Bright orange, thick, smells like sun-dried fruit with a hint of sea air. The color is a rich expression of β-carotene, zeaxanthin, and lycopene. Sea buckthorn is rich in palmitoleic acid, an omega-7 fatty acid that strengthens the barrier and supports collagen repair. It binds with the PPAR-α receptor inside keratinocytes and stimulates fresh barrier lipids. It calms NF-κB, the cell’s main inflammation switch, lowering redness, accelerating repair, and starts sealing micro-cracks. Carotenoids mop up free radicals so collagen stays intact. Sea buckthorn CO₂ would be beneficial in a serum following laser or peel to cut recovery time.

Rosehip Seed CO₂

Pressed rosehip seed oil is long valued for wound support and skin renewal. The CO₂ version magnifies its active profile. High linolenic and linoleic acids keep sebum fluid, reduce the chance of comedones, and feed ceramide-building pathways for a stronger barrier. Trace amounts of all-trans-retinoic acid give mild retinoid benefits without prescription sting. Early clinical and in-vitro work also shows faster epithelial repair and visible skin-quality improvement.

Raspberry Seed CO₂

Raspberry is another antioxidant powerhouse. Its ellagic acid shields collagen from UV-generated MMPs, a family of enzymes responsible for degrading the extracellular matrix. There’s a natural 1:3 omega-3 to omega-6 ratio that balances and reduces inflammation. The tocopherol content provides a potent, cell-protective antioxidant function. Raspberry seed CO₂ carotenoids, β-carotene and lutein, enhance the extract's strong antioxidant profile. Cranberry and blackberry have very similar structure and activity.

Sandalwood Kernel CO₂

Most people know the scent and therapeutic action of the essential oil distilled from the sandalwood tree. The kernel extract is not the same. It is a potent skin remedy in its own right, rich in the unique ximenynic acid. This unusual fatty acid down-regulates elastase and MMP-2, preventing collagen breakdown. It also improves microcirculation, warming sluggish skin and carrying nutrients deeper. This is a relatively new yet highly valuable skin-care ingredient.

Experience the power of CO₂ extracts

The power of these CO₂ extracts, and more, is in:
PERFECT SKIN PROTECT & HEALTHY-AGING SERUM

ILLUMINATE FACIAL TREATMENT SERUM

References

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Rebuild Collagen and Protect the Skin Barrier with Supercritical CO₂ Extracts