Botanical Name: Vaccinium Macrocarpon.
Family Name: Ericaceae.
Common Name: Cranberry, Red Cranberry, American Cranberry, Large Cranberry.
INCI: Vaccinium Macrocarpon Seed (Cranberry) Oil.
Extraction Method: Cold Pressed.
Parts Used: Seeds.
Appearance: Yellow.
Country of Origin: EE.UU
Comodogenic index: 1
Cranberry seed oil is a cold-pressed, nutrient-dense oil derived from the tiny seeds of the cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon), a superfruit native to North America. Known for its brilliant red berries and tart flavor, cranberries are famous for their health benefits — but their seeds hold an even more concentrated source of nutrients.
Cranberry seed oil has quickly gained recognition as a luxury skincare ingredient, rich in antioxidants, essential fatty acids, and vitamin E in its most bioavailable forms. This oil stands out as the only known oil with a perfectly balanced ratio of omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9 fatty acids, making it highly unique in the world of natural plant oils. Its light texture, quick absorption, and potent skin-restoring properties have made it a favorite for formulators of high-performance serums, creams, and haircare products.
Cranberries are evergreen shrubs that grow in acidic bogs and marshes across Canada and the northern United States. Indigenous peoples of North America used cranberries for centuries — not just as food but also as medicine and dye. The seeds, though small, were sometimes ground and mixed into poultices for their soothing effect on the skin.
The modern extraction of cranberry seed oil is a relatively recent innovation. As juice and dried cranberry industries expanded, their by-products — especially seeds — became an opportunity for upcycling. Cold pressing these seeds results in a golden-green, nutrient-rich oil that embodies the concentrated power of the whole berry. This approach supports zero-waste sustainability, making cranberry seed oil an eco-friendly ingredient.
Composition and Key Properties:
Cranberry seed oil is celebrated for its exceptionally balanced lipid profile, which makes it easily absorbed and well tolerated by all skin types. Its composition includes:
-Omega-3 (Alpha-Linolenic Acid) – anti-inflammatory, calming, supports barrier repair.
-Omega-6 (Linoleic Acid) – promotes ceramide synthesis, helping the skin retain moisture.
-Omega-9 (Oleic Acid) – softens and smooths, allowing deeper penetration of actives.
-Natural Tocopherols (Vitamin E) – rich in alpha-tocopherol and gamma-tocopherol, potent antioxidants that protect against free radical damage.
-Phytosterols – soothe irritated skin and support the repair of the skin’s moisture barrier.
-Carotenoids – offer additional antioxidant protection, supporting a healthy glow.
Main constituents of fatty acids:
1) Linoleic Acid: 35-45%
2) Oleic Acid: 20-25%
3) Palmitic Acid: 3-6%
4) Alpha-linolenic Acid: 22-35%
5) Stearic Acid: <2%
Skincare Applications:
Cranberry seed oil is a true multitasker in modern natural beauty:
1. Moisture Balance for All Skin Types:
Its balanced fatty acid profile makes it compatible with both dry and oily skin. It replenishes lipids without clogging pores, making it excellent for combination and acne-prone skin.
2. Anti-Aging Protection:
With its high content of tocopherols and phytosterols, cranberry seed oil defends skin from oxidative stress, one of the main contributors to premature aging. It helps soften fine lines, improve elasticity, and promote a youthful appearance.
3. Calming and Repairing:
Its anti-inflammatory nature makes it a great choice for skin conditions like eczema, rosacea, and general irritation. It helps soothe redness and supports the skin’s natural healing process.
4. Boosting Other Actives:
Because of its superior absorption, cranberry seed oil enhances the penetration of active ingredients in serums and creams, maximizing their efficacy.
Comodogenic index:
-Comedogenic level 0: it is non-comedogenic and does not cause pore clogging.
-Comedogenic level 1: there is a small (very low) possibility that the ingredient is comedogenic and may clog pores.
-Comedogenic level 2: in most cases, it will not clog pores. The possibility that it may clog pores is moderate to low.
-Comedogenic level 3: they have a medium chance of clogging pores, depending especially on the skin type.
-Comedogenic level 4: the chance of clogging pores, regardless of the skin type, is quite high.
-Comedogenic level 5: they tend, in almost all cases, to clog skin pores. In fact, very few people tolerate the oils found here.
