Pentaclethra Macroloba Seed Oil

Good

Antioxidant

Pentaclethra Macroloba Seed Oil at a glance

  • Has antioxidant properties
  • Rich in hydrating fatty acids
  • Can potentially fight hyperpigmentation
  • Also called pracaxi oil

Pentaclethra Macroloba Seed Oil description

_Pentaclethra macroloba_ seed oil comes from the seeds of a plant native to tropical regions of North and South America. This oil is also known as pracaxi oil. Pracaxi oil has antioxidant properties that help fight off pro-aging free radical damage, but its main use in cosmetics is as a hydrating agent. Studies find this oil has high levels of tocopherols (derivatives of vitamin E) and is rich in skin-restoring fatty acids, including oleic, linoleic, and behenic acids. Research also indicates this type of oil is more stable in its raw state in formulations than olive, soybean, or canola oils. Some emerging research points to pracaxi oil’s ability to inhibit the activity of tyrosinase, an enzyme responsible for excess melanin production in post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and melasma. This makes pracaxi oil an exciting ingredient to follow not only in barrier protecting formulations, but also in products designed to fight signs of aging including uneven patches of skin. Use levels of Pentaclethra macroloba seed oil in cosmetics range from 0.5–7%, with higher concentrations being used in more oil-forward products.

Pentaclethra Macroloba Seed Oil references

  • SpecialChem, Website, Accessed June 2025
  • Food Research International, November 2024, ePublication
  • Journal of Clinical and Medical Research, October 2024, pages 1-4
  • Plants, March 2023, pages 1-16
  • Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, June 2021, pages 8,842-8,854

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.