Castor oil is native to the Mediterranean region as well as tropical regions of Africa and India, but it also grows in other tropical regions. Initially considered an invasive and unwanted weed, the fine oil produced from its seeds contains benefits that would soon become known worldwide.

Today, castor oil, also known as "Christi Palm," continues to be used to repair hair and soften and soothe skin. It is used not only in pharmaceuticals and perfumes, but also in the production of soaps, cosmetics, and massage oils due to its moisturizing properties.

Its main chemical constituents are oleic acid, linoleic acid (omega-6 fatty acid), α-linolenic acid (alpha-linolenic acid - omega-3 fatty acid), stearic acid and palmitic acid.

When applied topically, castor oil's high fatty acid content delays the signs of aging by deeply moisturizing, softening, and soothing the skin, while boosting elasticity and collagen production. These effects contribute to a slowing of the appearance of wrinkles, promoting the appearance of more supple and youthful skin.

At La Savonnerie Blanchou, we use castor oil in our eucalyptus soaps, pumice soaps, and shaving soap, which provide you with the benefits and advantages we know today. In short, it's a true gift from Mother Nature.

And there you have it!

Louis Bastien
www.savonnerieblanchou.ca

Extra virgin olive oil, preferably organic, has long been considered a boon to the body. Among its characteristics that make it a fantastic skincare aid are its high content of vitamins A and E, as well as vitamins D and K, making it ideal for protecting body skin at all times and nourishing even the most sensitive skin. You can simply apply it after showering, just like a body oil or cream. Remember that olive oil is still a fat, and you'll have to wait for it to be absorbed by the skin to avoid damaging it.

Among the benefits it can bring:

• infinitely soothing and softening
• deeply hydrating
• exfoliating and nourishing
• astringent
• it helps with makeup removal
• excellent after long exposure to the sun

However, it may cause small pimples to appear, its consistency may not suit you and it is not suitable for acne-prone skin.

How to use it...

You can apply it by pouring one or two drops onto your fingertip to apply it precisely, like on the lips, or on a cotton ball for more extensive treatment, like for exfoliation.

There you have it! Don't be surprised to discover other applications of olive oil on the internet, but for now, I preferred to give you an overview of this wonderful oil that is called "green gold." And, as my little marketing tip requires, you will find at La Savonnerie Blanchou more than 35 soaps whose main ingredient is, guess what! yes, organic olive oil!

Louis Bastien
The Blanchou Soap Factory

Sweet almond oil now originates from the Maghreb, China, North and South America, and Australia. The almond tree usually produces almonds in late winter (January to March), and its fruit appears from June onward. This always depends on the location of the plantation.

The extraction process for good almond oil is the first cold pressing. It then reveals all its characteristics, such as: its high composition of vitamins A, D and E and several vitamins of the B complex. It is also rich in amino acids and minerals (calcium, magnesium, chromium, iron, potassium and phosphorus). Sweet almond oil is good for all skin types and its composition makes it a faithful friend for softening, nourishing, moisturizing and soothing dry to very dry skin.

And, as my little marketing tip requires, you will find at La Savonnerie Blanchou the very popular sweet almond oil soap and organic sweet almond oil in a 120 ml bottle with its pump.

On that note, I wish you a wonderful spring!

Louis Bastien
The Blanchou Soap Factory