Annatto :
Annatto is a fruit that comes from a native shrub in South America.The fruit itself is heart-shaped and turns a reddish brown as it matures. It is covered with little, stiff hairs, similar to a chestnut. As it ripens, the shell splits to reveal numerous red seeds, these are the seeds of Annatto.
>>The seeds are the source of a carotene based yellow- to-orange food coloring and flavor. Another interesting fact for you : red skinned Indians, who used the oil on their bodies, were so nicknamed, due to the beautiful colors which the Annatto gave to their skin.
Properties of the Annatto oil …
It’s very rich in beta-carotene ; the oil extracted from the Annatto seeds protects us against the ultraviolet rays of the sun and stimulates the production of melanin, a natural pigment which colors the skin and gives a healthy glowing look (and that is great!) It also has antioxidant properties, which neutralize the free radicals responsible for the first signs of ageing … It is an excellent protector and repairer before, during and after any sun exposure. Even if the Annatto oil does not give the same protection that a sun cream does, it can still be applied before a sun protective lotion, allowing you to take full advantage of all its numerous benefits.
>>Annatto oil is also very rich in essential minerals: calcium, magnesium, zinc, copper and manganese, and also has antiseptic, antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. It’s Ideal for tightening pores or calming irritated skin, Annatto effectively soothes painful skin problems… It is also an excellent anti-mosquito and an anti-venom remedy, particularly effective in cases of snake bites … Yes I‘mspecifying this information to you, because you never know when you might need it.
Application and use ..
I used to use carrot oil to look after and maintain my skin during summer, but that was before 😉 Since first trying Annatto oil, it is my new baby! When summer arrives, I am a huge user of this particular oil, which I apply both before and after sun exposure, to keep my skin hydrated, repaired and simply sublime. I find that Annatto oil gives my skin an attractive golden color, besides nourishing it and looking after it; I apply it in the morning before going to the beach, all over my body (but not on my face). Then, I put my suntan lotion (SPF 30 if I am in France, and 50 if I’msomewhere a lot hotter).
>>I also use it to maintain my tan. The Annatto oil really prolongs my tan, giving it a much more attractive, golden and long lasting look.The color of my skin remains golden and does not become “matte’ on my return to Paris.
To sum up ..
I adore the perfume scent and the rather sensual texture of the Annatto oil by Pura Bali, which is not the case with other oils that I have tested. This one has a delicate, exotic and summer scent, that added to my bath water, transports me to some beautiful holiday destination. Besides being one of my main body must-haves for summer, this oil is also ideal for a romantic sensual massage or to hydrate or perfume your hair and nourish the split ends that have been dried out by the effects of sun and sea. It is an oil that you don’t need to use much of , in order to get the desired effect. Especially if you don’t want to have greasy hair or skin.
Concerning the texture, I don’t have a bad word to say. Its simply gorgeous and leaves your skin feeling great, as opposed to sticky or greasy. It comes in two versions by Pura Bali: l’huile éclatante and l’huile éclatante pailletée . one with glitter and one without. The two products are identical, the only difference being the glitter, the shape of the bottle and the price. The glitter version is a little bit more expensive at 26 euros for 100ml the original version retails at 22 euros.
There, I hope I have said everything necessary to convince you to make this a part of your summer bag !!
Happy tanning;-)
xxxx
Pictures @Peter Soubbotnik
Translation @Natalya Paupe
