Wheat bran oil; is it the same as wheat germ oil?

Excellent and very important question! You are absolutely right that they need to be differentiated, especially in the context of skin care. Question from Eri to the topic: Keep your neck from aging. Neck and décolletage care

Short answer: No, it's not the same thing. These are two different oils derived from different parts of the wheat grain, and they have different properties.

Now for more details, as nuance is very important in cosmetology.

Wheat Bran Oil (Wheat Bran Oil)

• Source: Derived from the outer shell of the grain (bran).
• Skin properties:

Light in texture, absorbs well without leaving a heavy greasy film.

Rich in vitamin E (tocotrienols - a powerful form of vitamin E), squalene (a natural component of sebum, excellent moisturizer and barrier repair), and antioxidants.

Suitable for many skin types, including combined and prone to greasiness, as it is non-comedogenic (does not clog pores).

It has emollient, nourishing and protective properties.

Wheat Germ Oil (Wheat Germ Oil)

• Source: It is obtained from the germ (embryo) of wheat grain. It is the most valuable and nutrient concentrated part.
• Skin properties:

1. Very thick, heavy and dense. In its pure form, it may be poorly absorbed and leave a sticky, greasy film.
2. The absolute champion in vitamin E content among all vegetable oils.
3. Strongly comedogenic (high rating of 4-5 on a 5-point scale). This means that it is highly likely to clog pores and provoke black spots and pimples, especially when used pure on the face.
4. Rich in nutrients, it is excellent for very dry, mature, fading body skin, for repairing rough areas (elbows, heels), but is not recommended for oily and acne-prone facial skin.

Shall we test your memory? Why is "germ oil dirty"?

The expression "dirty" here is likely used in two senses:

1. Literally: Unrefined wheat germ oil has a very rich color (dark orange/brownish), thick consistency and a strong, specific smell that not everyone likes. It can be perceived as "dirty" compared to lighter, purified oils.
2. In terms of comedogenicity: It is because of its ability to "pollute" pores that it is often not recommended for use on the face, especially in its pure form.

Bottom line and recommendation for your recipe:

1. They're different oils. If the recipe specifically calls for wheat bran oil - Is a good, lightweight and non-comedogenic choice for neck and facial skin care.
2. Wheat germ oil - is a powerful but heavy oil. It is better to use it for the body or add just a few drops in a mixture with other, lighter oils (for example, with the same bran oil, grape seed oil, jojoba oil) to enrich the composition with vitamin E.
3. For the delicate skin on your neck, the wheat bran oil in your recipe is better suited as it is lighter and less likely to cause irritation or clogged pores.

Conclusion: Feel free to use what the recipe says - wheat bran oil. It is a great and proper ingredient for skin care. It should not be confused with germ oil.