Cupressus Sempervirens Oil
Essential oil from evergreen cypress. Contains α-pinene, δ-3-carene, cedrol – volatile monoterpenes with a pronounced aromatic profile. In cosmetics used for fragrance, less often as a vascular-toning ingredient in body care. Moderate allergen potential, caution for sensitive skin and during pregnancy.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Essential oil for fragrance. Monoterpenes oxidize in air and become contact allergens (de Groot 2016). No RCTs support standalone activity.
- de Groot AC, Schmidt E. Essential oils, part IV: contact allergy. Dermatitis 2016;27(4):170-175. PMID 27427818
How to read tiers A–F
- DNo data, or very weak or conflicting data
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Medium
- Allergen risk
- Moderate
- Pregnancy
- Caution
- Suitable for
- Normal, Oily
- Use with caution
- Sensitive, Dry
About this ingredient
Cypress Oil (Cupressus Sempervirens Oil) is an essential oil from the leaves and shoots of evergreen cypress Cupressus sempervirens, a Mediterranean symbol. Contains α-pinene (40-50%), δ-3-carene, cedrol, limonene. Mechanism. Monoterpenes α-pinene and δ-3-carene have an aromatic profile; in traditional phytotherapy the oil was used as a vascular tonic – on the basis that inhaling its vapors causes vasoconstriction. In lab models it gives moderate antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus. Where applied. Anti-cellulite creams and massage oils, products for heavy tired legs, aromatherapy, perfumery. In Spain – Weleda, niche natural brands in the thalasso category. Evidence base. No direct human skin RCTs. The 'heavy legs' relief effect is declarative, not confirmed in placebo-controlled studies. Antimicrobial activity is in vitro only. Safety and controversies. Moderate allergen potential. Limonene and pinene are on the EU 26 declared allergens list. Contact dermatitis is possible; concentrations above 2% carry a high irritation risk. Cross-sensitization in patients with conifer allergy. Pregnancy – avoid. Essential oils high in monoterpenes are not recommended in pregnancy either locally (vapor inhalation) or topically. As a general rule, aromatic essential oils are avoided during pregnancy. Best suited to: healthy body skin without allergy tendency. Not for the face, atopy, rosacea, or pregnancy.
Frequently asked questions
Is Cupressus Sempervirens Oil safe during pregnancy?
Cupressus Sempervirens Oil should be used with caution during pregnancy. Consulting a dermatologist or OB-GYN is advisable.
What skin types is Cupressus Sempervirens Oil for?
Cupressus Sempervirens Oil suits: normal, oily. Use with caution in: sensitive, dry.
Can Cupressus Sempervirens Oil irritate the skin?
Cupressus Sempervirens Oil has moderate irritation potential. Sensitive skin may show a transient reaction that usually settles with adaptation.
What is Cupressus Sempervirens Oil and what does it do in cosmetics?
Essential oil from evergreen cypress.
What's the INCI name for Cupressus Sempervirens Oil?
The INCI name is Cupressus Sempervirens Leaf/Nut/Stem Oil. It may also appear as: Cupressus Sempervirens Oil, Cypress Oil.
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