Cold-pressed vs. refined — how to read a label, certifications & traceability

Why cold tire pressure makes all the difference

Cold pressing is a mechanical extraction method, performed at low temperature, which preserves the integrity of compounds of cosmetic interest:

• Antioxidants : vitamin E (tocopherols), polyphenols ;

• Essential lipids : omega 6/9 ;

• Sterols with soothing properties .

The result: a more active oil, with a richer sensory profile (color, natural scent), and a finish that is often finer and less occlusive on the skin.

Refining: what we gain... and what we lose

Refining standardizes appearance (color/odor) and can improve visual stability . However, some steps (neutralization, deodorization, bleaching) can reduce antioxidant content and alter the lipid profile.
In high-end cosmetics, cold-pressed, unrefined oils are preferred to maximize effectiveness .

How to read a label (INCI, origin, batch)

Clear INCI

• Prickly Pear: Opuntia Ficus-Indica Seed Oil

• Pomegranate: Punica Granatum Seed Oil

• Date: Phoenix Dactylifera (Date) Seed Oil

Origin & batch

• Look for an identified origin (country, sector) and a batch number (traceability).

• A light odor and a color that vary depending on the harvest are markers of authenticity .

Short list

• For a pure oil: only 1 ingredient expected (excluding regulatory statements such as natural allergens if mixed).

Traceability: COA & SDS, what are they?

• COA (Certificate of Analysis) : results of analyses of a batch (profile, purity, technical parameters).

• SDS (Safety Data Sheet) : safety/transport information and best practices .
  Requesting a COA/SDS for each batch is a smart move for any informed buyer . At Biosentys, these documents are available upon request for each batch bottled .

Certifications & GMP (COSMOS/Ecocert, ISO 22716)

• COSMOS/Ecocert (or equivalents): organic/natural standard, process control and traceability .

• Fair for Life : the fair dimension of the supply chain.

• ISO 22716 (GMP cosmetics) : good manufacturing/packaging practices (hygiene, documentation, controls).
  At Biosentys: cold-pressed , unrefined oils, certified supply chains , packaged in France according to GMP – ISO 22716 .

Shopping checklist (print and keep)

1. INCI = 100% pure vegetable oil (consistent Latin name).

2. Extraction : first cold pressing , unrefined .

3. Traceability : visible batch + COA/SDS available.

4. Certifications : COSMOS/Ecocert (materials), Fair for Life as appropriate.

5. Packaging : in France , GMP – ISO 22716 , dark glass bottle.

6. Odour/colour : natural , normal variability depending on harvests.

7. Transparency : clear information, measurable commitment (documents, processes).

8. Experience : fine texture , dry finish (facial cosmetic), rapid absorption .

9. Promises : realistic cosmetics, without medical claims.

10. Customer service : responsive, well-documented answers .

Key points to remember

• Cold pressed ≠ marketing: it's the key to preserving the assets .

• Unrefined = complete profile (antioxidants, omega, sterols), more potential benefits .

• Batch traceability (COA/SDS), certifications and GMP – ISO 22716 = the basis of serious care.