Neem Oil
Oil from seeds of the Indian neem tree (Azadirachta indica). Its characteristic garlic-sulphur odour is a major drawback. Used in Ayurveda and Indian cosmetics for acne, dandruff, psoriasis, and head lice. The main active is azadirachtin. Limited use outside India due to the smell; in the EU it is considered a moderate allergen.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Antibacterial activity against Propionibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus aureus is confirmed in vitro. Clinical data for acne are limited to small Indian studies with weak methodology. Avoid in pregnancy due to data on potential azadirachtin embryotoxicity in experimental models.
- Clinical study to assess efficacy and safety of Purifying Neem Face Wash in prevention and reduction of acne in healthy adults. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2022;21(7):3009-3016.. PMID 34590784
How to read tiers A–F
- CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Medium
- Allergen risk
- Moderate
- Pregnancy
- Avoid
- Suitable for
- Oily, Combination
- Use with caution
- Sensitive, Dry
About this ingredient
Neem Oil (Azadirachta Indica Seed Oil) is a cold-pressed plant oil from the seeds of the Indian neem tree. Contains triglycerides and strong bioactive components – azadirachtin, nimbin, nimbidin, triterpenoids. Mechanism. Antibacterial, antifungal, antiparasitic effect – azadirachtin disrupts arthropod and fungal development. On skin suppresses Cutibacterium acnes and Malassezia. Anti-inflammatory effect via NF-κB inhibition. Where applied. Anti-acne and anti-lice products (neem repels lice by disrupting their development), anti-dandruff shampoos, ayurvedic lotions for problem skin. In Europe – in niche and craft cosmetics, less in pharmacy (Klorane Neem). Concentration 0.5–5%, usually mixed with other oils due to strong odor. Evidence base. Mehlhorn 2011 RCT (n=12) confirmed neem oil efficacy against head lice. For acne the evidence base is limited to in vitro and case series. No systematic review of topical skin use. Safety. Allergic reactions in 3–5% of patients. Strong garlic-sulfur odor limits use. Contact dermatitis described in neem plantation workers. Pregnancy and lactation – CONTRAINDICATED. Azadirachtin and nimbin have antifertility and abortifacient activity, described in Indian traditional medicine (oral use). Topical use even at cosmetic concentrations is not recommended – no data on systemic absorption in pregnancy. AAD 2023 and SEGO 2023 recommend avoidance. Alternative for acne in pregnancy – azelaic acid, topical erythromycin. Controversy. WHO and FDA do not ban neem in cosmetics but recommend avoidance in pregnancy, lactation, and in children under 1 year – through restrictions embedded in Indian and ayurvedic traditions.
Frequently asked questions
Is Neem Oil safe during pregnancy?
Neem Oil is not recommended during pregnancy. Consider an alternative from the same category.
What skin types is Neem Oil for?
Neem Oil suits: oily, combination. Use with caution in: sensitive, dry.
Can Neem Oil irritate the skin?
Neem Oil has moderate irritation potential. Sensitive skin may show a transient reaction that usually settles with adaptation.
What is Neem Oil and what does it do in cosmetics?
Oil from seeds of the Indian neem tree (Azadirachta indica).
Is Neem Oil comedogenic?
On the Fulton scale 2/5 – low comedogenicity. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
What's the INCI name for Neem Oil?
The INCI name is Melia Azadirachta Seed Oil. It may also appear as: Neem Oil, Azadirachta Indica Seed Oil.
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