What it is
Vaccinium macrocarpon seed oil is obtained from the seeds of the cranberry and is valued for an unusually balanced ratio of omega-3 (alpha-linolenic) and omega-6 (linoleic) fatty acids, along with naturally occurring tocopherols and tocotrienols (vitamin E). In skincare and sunscreens it functions as a lightweight emollient that softens and conditions the skin and contributes antioxidant character to the oil phase. It is typically used at low levels to enrich the feel and skin-care positioning of a formula.
Safety & warnings
Cranberry seed oil is generally well tolerated and considered low on the comedogenic scale, though as a polyunsaturated plant oil it is prone to oxidation and is usually stabilized with antioxidants. It contains no added fragrance, but as with any botanical oil, sensitive or allergy-prone individuals can occasionally react. Highly unsaturated oils may not suit those who find richer oils congesting.
Origin & sourcing
Natural. It is a cold-pressed or expeller-pressed fixed oil from the seeds of the cranberry plant (Vaccinium macrocarpon).
Questions everyone asks
Why is cranberry seed oil used in skincare?
It is a lightweight emollient rich in balanced omega fatty acids and vitamin E, used to soften and condition skin and add antioxidant character to the oil phase.
Is cranberry seed oil likely to clog pores?
It is generally regarded as low on the comedogenic scale, but individual responses to plant oils vary.