Ribes Nigrum (Black Currant) Seed Oil
A plant oil rich in gamma-linolenic acid (omega-6). It nourishes, supports the barrier and soothes dry skin. Well tolerated.
Evidence by route
Topical application
A nourishing plant oil. Safe, well tolerated.
- 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
Ribes Nigrum (Black Currant) Seed Oil is the oil from black currant seed, especially rich in gamma-linolenic acid (omega-6) and other essential fatty acids. In cosmetics it is used as a nourishing emollient: it reinforces the lipid barrier, softens dry skin and helps reduce tightness. It appears in facial oils, serums and rich creams. On efficacy there is reasonable basis. Essential fatty acids like GLA make sense for barrier support and comfort in dry, reactive skin, though it is best seen as a good supporting emollient rather than a treatment that changes skin structurally on its own. For topical use in pregnancy and breastfeeding there are no risk signals. Systemic absorption from skin is minimal, so it can be used in these stages. Tolerance is good. Low irritation and low allergy potential. Its comedogenicity is very low (level 1), generally suitable even for combination skin. As a plant oil, anyone with allergies to specific fruits or oils can patch test first.
Frequently asked questions
Is Ribes Nigrum (Black Currant) Seed Oil safe during pregnancy?
Ribes Nigrum (Black Currant) Seed Oil is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Ribes Nigrum (Black Currant) Seed Oil for?
Ribes Nigrum (Black Currant) Seed Oil suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Ribes Nigrum (Black Currant) Seed Oil and what does it do in cosmetics?
A plant oil rich in gamma-linolenic acid (omega-6).
Is Ribes Nigrum (Black Currant) Seed Oil comedogenic?
On the Fulton scale 1/5 – very low comedogenicity. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
What's the INCI name for Ribes Nigrum (Black Currant) Seed Oil?
The INCI name is Ribes Nigrum Seed Oil. It may also appear as: Black Currant Seed Oil.
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Ribose, Rice Amino Acids, Ricinus Communis Seed Oil, Rosa Damascena Flower Water, Aminobutyric Acid, Cysteine, Hyaluronic Acid (Low Molecular Weight), Manganese PCA
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