Bisabolol: The Hidden Gem of Cosmetics You Absolutely Must Know About!
Used for centuries in natural remedies, bisabolol is an active ingredient with exceptional properties. However, it remains little known to the general public. Found naturally in certain plants such as chamomile and candéia, it is distinguished by its soothing, anti-inflammatory, and healing properties, making it a valuable ally for sensitive skin and hair care. What are its real benefits? How is it extracted? Are there any risks associated with it? Find out everything you need to know about this powerful cosmetic ingredient.
What is Bisabolol?
Bisabolol is a natural compound of plant origin belonging to the sesquiterpene alcohol family. Its history dates back to ancient medicinal practices, where it was used for its soothing and restorative properties. It is extracted by steam distillation of chamomile or candéia (native to Brazil) essential oil. The oil is then purified to isolate bisabolol in the form of a slightly viscous, colorless liquid. This technique is preferred for obtaining a pure product, as it is better absorbed by the skin and guarantees optimal effectiveness.
The 5 Benefits of Bisabolol for Skin and Hair
1. A Powerful Soothing Agent for Sensitive Skin
Bisabolol is an excellent ally for skin prone to redness, irritation, or itching. It inhibits the action of inflammatory cytokines, which are responsible for excessive skin reactions, and instantly calms feelings of discomfort.
2. Healing and Repairing Action
Thanks to its action on fibroblasts, cells that are essential for skin regeneration, bisabolol accelerates the healing of small wounds, chapped skin, and acne-related irritation.
3. A Natural Antioxidant Against Skin Aging
Bisabolol helps combat oxidative stress by neutralizing free radicals, which are responsible for premature skin aging. It thus protects collagen and preserves the elasticity and firmness of the epidermis.
4. Protection Against Bacteria and Fungi
Several studies have demonstrated the antimicrobial effect of bisabolol against certain bacteria responsible for skin infections and acne. It thus contributes to the balance of the skin flora.
5. Help for Evening Out Skin Tone
Bisabolol also has lightening properties. It limits melanin production and helps reduce the appearance of pigmentation spots caused by sun exposure or acne scars.
In Which Products Can Bisabolol Be Found?
Thanks to its many virtues, bisabolol is used in a wide variety of skincare products:
- Moisturizing and soothing creams, ideal for sensitive and reactive skin.
- Anti-dark spot serums, to reduce hyperpigmentation.
- Healing and after-sun care, to soothe the skin after sun exposure or irritation.
- Shampoos and hair care products, to soothe the scalp and combat itching.
- Natural deodorants, to limit irritation caused by shaving.
- Oral care, particularly to relieve sensitive gums.
Are There Any Risks Associated with Bisabolol?
To date, no significant side effects has been reported regarding the use of bisabolol in cosmetics. It is non-irritating, non-allergenic, and non-toxic, making it a perfectly safe ingredient, even for the most reactive skin.
The only precaution to take is that bisabolol enhances the penetration of other cosmetic active ingredients. It is therefore important to pay attention to the other ingredients present in the formulation of a skincare product to avoid excessive absorption of irritating compounds.
If you have reactive skin that is prone to redness, inflammation, or blemishes, bisabolol is an active ingredient of choice. Its effectiveness at low concentrations (as low as 1 %) makes it an ingredient of choice for gently soothing, protecting, and repairing the skin.
