Nigella Sativa Seed Oil
A black cumin seed oil with fatty acids and thymoquinone. It nourishes and soothes skin. Well tolerated.
Evidence by route
Topical application
A nourishing plant oil. Safe.
- CIR Cosmetic Ingredient Review safety assessment
How to read tiers A–F
- BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Black cumin seed oil (INCI: Nigella Sativa Seed Oil) is a plant oil rich in unsaturated fatty acids and in thymoquinone, a compound with antioxidant activity. In a formula it works as an emollient that nourishes the skin and gives a calming feel. As an active it is first of all a good care lipid. There is experimental interest in thymoquinone for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action, but solid topical clinical evidence is still limited. Better to see it as a comforting emollient with a supporting antioxidant plus, not a targeted treatment. Topically there is no meaningful systemic passage, so the oil can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Tolerance is good, with low irritation and allergy potential. Its comedogenicity is medium-low (2 of 5), so oily or acne-prone skin should introduce it with some caution, though most people get on well with it.
Frequently asked questions
Is Nigella Sativa Seed Oil safe during pregnancy?
Nigella Sativa Seed Oil is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Nigella Sativa Seed Oil for?
Nigella Sativa Seed Oil suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Nigella Sativa Seed Oil and what does it do in cosmetics?
A black cumin seed oil with fatty acids and thymoquinone.
Is Nigella Sativa Seed 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 Nigella Sativa Seed Oil?
The INCI name is Nigella Sativa Seed Oil. It may also appear as: Black Cumin Seed Oil.
See Nigella Sativa Seed Oil in a product composition right on the store page
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