Meadowfoam Oil
Meadowfoam Oil is a premium-quality, cold-pressed carrier oil extracted from the seeds of the Limnanthes alba plant, native to the Pacific Northwest of the United States. Known for its exceptional oxidative stability and long shelf life, Meadowfoam Oil is rich in long-chain fatty acids such as eicosenoic acid, docosenoic acid, and behenic acid. It is a lightweight, non-greasy oil that absorbs easily into the skin, leaving a soft, velvety feel without clogging pores. Odorless and pale yellow in color, this oil is prized in cosmetics and personal care products for its emollient, moisturizing, and barrier-repairing properties. Meadowfoam Oil also enhances the performance and stability of other oils and active ingredients, making it a highly functional base in advanced formulations. Its versatility, stability, and gentle nature have made it a key ingredient in skincare, haircare, makeup, and wellness products.
Uses
Primary Uses
Aromatherapy & Wellness
- Used as a stable carrier oil to dilute essential oils in massage and wellness applications.
- Incorporated in facial oils and body serums for its nourishing and non-comedogenic profile.
- Included in aromatherapy blends to deliver actives and improve skin penetration.
- Used in stretch mark and scar blends due to its moisturizing and skin-smoothing benefits.
- Applied in wellness rollers and skin repair oils for barrier support and soothing effects.
Cosmetics and Personal Care
- Added to moisturizers, lotions, and creams for long-lasting hydration and emollient properties.
- Used in lip balms and lipsticks for enhanced texture, stability, and moisture retention.
- Incorporated into hair serums, conditioners, and scalp treatments for softness, shine, and frizz control.
- Included in sunscreens and anti-aging formulas to reduce moisture loss and boost product integrity.
- Blended into foundations, BB creams, and makeup bases to improve spreadability and skin-feel.
- Added to beard oils and shaving products for glide, nourishment, and a smooth finish.
- Used in sensitive skin formulas due to its non-irritating, hypoallergenic profile.
Topical Applications
- Applied directly to dry or cracked skin to restore softness and hydration.
- Used in nail and cuticle treatments to condition and prevent brittleness.
- Incorporated in after-sun care products for soothing and replenishing sun-exposed skin.
- Included in baby care products for gentle moisturization and protection.
- Blended in scar and blemish care formulas to support healing and reduce dryness.
Secondary Uses
Cleaning and Detergent Products
- Added to skin-friendly, plant-based soaps and cleansers for moisturizing properties.
- Used in luxury household soaps and fabric softeners for gentle skin contact formulations.
Spa and Therapeutic Products
- Incorporated in body oils, massage blends, and therapeutic balms for hydration and slip.
- Used in exfoliating scrubs and bath oils for a smooth, silky post-treatment feel.
- Blended into aromatherapy and mindfulness rollers as a stabilizing base oil.
Fragrance and Ambient Scenting
- Used as a base oil in alcohol-free roll-on perfumes and scented body oils.
- Added to fragrance blends to improve skin feel and enhance aroma retention.
- Used in solid perfumes and balm-based fragrances for structure and glide.
Pet and Animal Care
- Included in pet grooming balms and coat conditioners for shine and moisture.
- Used in paw salves and dry skin treatments for pets (under veterinary guidance).
- Employed in pet-safe soap formulations for gentle cleansing.
Industrial and Specialty Applications
- Used in advanced formulations requiring oxidation-resistant carrier oils.
- Employed in bio-based lubricants, polishes, and emollient-rich industrial cleaners.
- Incorporated in formulations where long shelf life and heat resistance are desired.
Basic Identification Attributes
- Botanical Name: Limnanthes alba
- Common/Trade Name: Meadowfoam Oil
- INCI Name: Limnanthes Alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil
- CAS Number: 153065-40-8
- HS Code: 1515.90
- Synonyms: Meadowfoam Seed Oil
Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Liquid carrier oil
- Color & Odor: Clear to pale yellow; virtually odorless
- Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in alcohol and oils
- Refractive Index: 1.470 – 1.490
- Specific Gravity: 0.910 – 0.930
- Main Components: Eicosenoic acid, docosenoic acid, behenic acid, oleic acid
Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification: Not classified as hazardous; considered safe for topical use
- Toxicity: Low toxicity; external use only
- Exposure Limits: Refer to Safety Data Sheet (SDS)
- Allergen Information: Typically hypoallergenic; patch testing recommended for sensitive users
Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dark, dry place; avoid direct sunlight and high heat
- Container Type: Amber glass or aluminum containers with airtight lids
- Shelf Life: 24 to 36 months when stored properly
- Handling Precautions: Avoid contamination; use clean, dry equipment during handling
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Compliant with IFRA standards and cosmetic safety regulations
- Produced in GMP-certified and FDA-registered facilities
- Not classified as hazardous under international shipping standards
Environmental & Health Impact
- Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable under standard environmental conditions
- Ecotoxicity: Low toxicity to aquatic life in diluted concentrations
- Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate
Safety Handling Precautions
- PPE Required: Gloves recommended during industrial processing
- Handling Guidelines: Ensure containers are tightly sealed and stored in controlled environments
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Not typically hazardous; move to fresh air if irritation occurs
- Skin Contact: Safe for most skin types; wash with soap and water if irritation arises
- Eye Contact: Rinse with water for several minutes if eye exposure occurs
- Ingestion: Non-toxic in small amounts; seek medical attention for large quantities
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Combustible oil; avoid open flames and ignition sources
- Extinguishing Media: Dry chemical, foam, carbon dioxide, or water mist
- Special Precautions: Use protective gear; avoid inhaling combustion vapors
- Hazardous Combustion Products: Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide