Cranberry Seed Extract

Average

Plant extracts

Cranberry Seed Extract at a glance

  • Natural extract from cranberry seeds
  • Contains skin-beneficial antioxidants
  • May be used as exfoliating scrub particles
  • Also goes by Vaccinium macrocarpon (cranberry) seed

Cranberry Seed Extract description

Cranberry seed extract is a natural skin care ingredient obtained from the seeds of cranberries. Cranberry seeds are known for their potent antioxidants. The North American species of cranberries used in cosmetics goes by the INCI name _Vaccinium macrocarpon_ (cranberry) seed. Cranberry seeds can be used as exfoliating scrub particles. If not smoothly, finely milled, the abrasive nature of the irregularly shaped particles can be harsh on skin, leading to barrier disruption/impairment. Using cranberry seed in this form is not best practice in modern day cosmetics (there are gentler, more effective forms of exfoliating ingredients available, such as jojoba beads). Occasionally brands used the terms cranberry seed extract and cranberry seed oil interchangeably—although they carry different implications. The seed oil form is highly favored in skin care research thanks to its soothing, moisturizing properties in addition to providing beneficial omega fatty acids and antioxidants to skin. See our Ingredient Dictionary entry for _Vaccinium macrocarpon_ (Cranberry) Seed Oil for more info. Cranberry seed extract and other cranberry-derived cosmetic ingredients have the potential to be upcycled as byproducts from the agricultural industry. Upcycling helps divert waste and reduce environmental impact by utilizing portions of the plant that would otherwise be discarded.

Cranberry Seed Extract references

  • Personal Care Products Council, Accessed September 2024, ePublication
  • UL Prospector (supplier info), Accessed September 2024, ePublication
  • Nutrients, March 2023, pages 1-22
  • Recent Patents on Biotechnology, June 2010, pages 112-124

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.