In the world of natural skincare, it's essential to recognise that temperature can have a noticeable impact on the appearance of products. This is particularly true for those crafted with high concentrations of certain natural oils and compounds, such as facial oils, cleansing oils and some pure oils such as marula oil, prickly pear seed oil. Let’s delve into how temperature affects these products and what you can do to maintain their optimal appearance and performance.

When oils with high oleic acid content are subjected to cold temperatures, they may solidify due to the crystallization of oleic acid, a monounsaturated fatty acid commonly present in plant oils. This solidification is a natural occurrence and should be expected. Oils like Marula Oil and Prickly Pear seed oil, known for their richness in oleic acid, are prone to solidifying when exposed to lower temperatures. Therefore, the solidification of your product in cold conditions is a normal reaction caused by the characteristics of oleic acid in the oils used.

If your oil-based products have solidified, simply place the bottle in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes. This will gently melt the solidified oleic acid back into its liquid state. Afterward, make sure the lid is securely fastened and give the bottle a good shake to ensure the oils are well-mixed before use.

Another interesting phenomenon which may occur with our pink products, which are naturally tinted with a pink hue. If these products are exposed to direct sunlight, you might notice that the colour shifts from pink to orange. This colour change is a result of the natural pigments in the product reacting to UV light, which can cause a breakdown or alteration in the structure of the pigments.

The scientific explanation behind this colour shift lies in the nature of the compounds that provide the pink hue. These pigments are sensitive to UV light, which can cause a process known as photooxidation. During photooxidation, the pigment molecules absorb UV light and undergo a chemical change, resulting in a different colour— in this case, from pink to orange.

To maintain the original pink hue, store your product in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. If the colour does change, rest assured that the product is still safe and effective to use.

Understanding the natural reactions that can occur in your skincare products due to temperature and sunlight exposure allows you to better care for them and ensures you get the best results. Whether it’s a change in texture due to cold temperatures or a shift in colour from sunlight, these occurrences are normal and expected with natural products. By following the simple steps outlined above, you can maintain the quality and appearance of your favourite skincare items.