What it is
Bisabolol is a natural monocyclic sesquiterpene alcohol that appears as a colorless to pale-yellow viscous oil with a weak, sweet floral aroma. It is the main component of the essential oil of German chamomile (Matricaria recutita) and is valued in skincare for its soothing, anti-irritant character. The naturally occurring form is α-(−)-bisabolol, while material made synthetically is usually a racemic mixture. It is poorly soluble in water but dissolves readily in alcohol and oils.
Safety & warnings
Bisabolol is generally described in cosmetic references as well tolerated and is widely used in products aimed at calming the skin. As an aromatic plant-derived constituent it carries a faint scent, so individuals who react to fragrant botanical components should patch test; it has also been studied as a penetration enhancer, meaning it can help other ingredients absorb.
Origin & sourcing
Bisabolol can be obtained naturally or synthesized. The classic natural source is German chamomile, whose essential oil is rich in the compound, and cosmetic suppliers also extract it from the candeia tree (Eremanthus erythropappus) native to Brazil; a racemic version is produced synthetically.
History
Bisabolol-bearing chamomile has been used for hundreds of years in cosmetics for its skin-healing reputation, and the isolated compound continues to be employed as an anti-irritant and skin conditioner.
Questions everyone asks
Where does bisabolol come from?
It occurs naturally in German chamomile and in the Brazilian candeia tree, and can also be made synthetically as a racemic mixture.
What is bisabolol used for in skincare?
It is used as a soothing, skin-conditioning agent that helps calm the feel of irritated skin.
Is natural bisabolol different from synthetic?
The naturally occurring form is alpha-(−)-bisabolol, while synthetic bisabolol is typically a racemic mixture of both forms.