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Skincare Ingredient

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Bisabolol

In Skincare: Is Bisabolol Safe? Comedogenic Rating & Side Effects

Comedogenicity (pore clogging)
1/5 — Very low risk
Safety (overall safety)
1/5 — Very low risk
Irritancy (skin irritation)
1/5 — Very low risk

Safety Information

Soothing anti-inflammatory (often from chamomile); CIR/EWG indicate low toxicity and low sensitization—rare allergy possible especially if botanically derived/impure. Generally considered safe for topical use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. May cause irritation in rare cases of pre-existing sensitivity or when used in high concentrations.

Quick Insights

At a glance

  • 01

    Bisabolol is a skin-soothing ingredient often used in cosmetic formulations.

  • 02

    Bisabolol may exhibit properties that help to reduce the appearance of skin discoloration.

  • 03

    Bisabolol is commonly derived from chamomile.

Key Benefits

What Bisabolol does for your skin

2 benefits
Soothing
Anti-Aging

Overview

Ingredient Profile

Bisabolol is an ingredient frequently used for its skin-soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, often derived from chamomile or produced synthetically. Research suggests it may also contribute to reducing the appearance of discoloration and can enhance the absorption of other skincare ingredients. Safe for use in leave-on products up to a 1% concentration, bisabolol is typically an oily liquid and may impart a subtle floral scent. Individuals with known ragweed allergies should exercise caution, as bisabolol is related to the ragweed family.
Classifications
Plant Extracts
Antioxidant

Data & Research

Scientific Facts

Bisabolol exists in two forms: beta-bisabolol is found naturally in corn and cotton, while alpha-bisabolol is derived from chamomile plants and is commonly used in cosmetic applications.

Common Uses

Formulation in Bisabolol

Bisabolol is utilized in cosmetics to help improve the appearance of dry or damaged skin by minimizing flaking and promoting a smoother texture. It may also be used as a fragrance ingredient within cosmetic products.

Role of Bisabolol

Active Cosmetic Mechanisms

FRAGRANCE

Scent Provider

Adds pleasant scent to cosmetic products

SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS

// Evidence: Fragrance ingredients provide aromatic appeal through essential oils, aroma chemicals, and natural extracts. These volatile compounds interact with olfactory receptors creating scent perception. Fragrance design considers top notes (high volatility), middle notes (moderate volatility), and base notes (low volatility) for scent development over time. Must consider stability, allergen content, and regulatory compliance.

SKIN CONDITIONING

Skin Enhancer

Maintains skin in good condition and improves its feel

SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS

// Evidence: Skin conditioning ingredients enhance appearance, texture, and health of skin through various mechanisms. This broad category encompasses emollients, humectants, occlusives, and other agents that improve skin feel, appearance, and function. May work by moisturizing, smoothing, softening, or protecting skin. Effects include improved tactile properties, enhanced barrier function, and better overall skin condition.

SOOTHING

Calming Agent

Calms and comforts irritated or sensitive skin

SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS

// Evidence: Soothing ingredients reduce discomfort, redness, and inflammation through anti-inflammatory mechanisms. Include allantoin (stimulates healing), bisabolol (anti-inflammatory), colloidal oatmeal (skin protectant), panthenol (hydrating, barrier repair), and botanical extracts (aloe, chamomile, calendula). Mechanisms involve inhibiting inflammatory mediators (prostaglandins, cytokines), reducing histamine release, strengthening barrier function, and providing cooling sensation. Essential for sensitive, reactive, or post-procedure skin.

Products

containing Bisabolol

4800 formulations
SOS Primer - Green 04
SOS Primer - Green 04
Clarins · makeup
UV Shield Aqua Fresh Essence SPF 50 PA++++
UV Shield Aqua Fresh Essence SPF 50 PA++++
Wardah · sunscreen
Aloe & Coconut Oil After Sun Soother
Aloe & Coconut Oil After Sun Soother
Burt's Bees · body-skincare

References

Scientific sources

[1]

Life Sciences, September 2022, ePublication

[2]

CosmeticsInfo.org, Accessed May 2021, ePublication

[3]

International Journal of Cosmetic Science, August 2019, pages 299-303

[4]

International Journal of Toxicology, September 2017, pages 24S-25S

[5]

Cutis, November 2015, pages 337-342

[6]

Current Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, 2014, pages 173-181

[7]

Food and Chemical Toxicology, October 2011, pages 2580-2585

Semantic Analysis

Similar Ingredients

Ingredients with similar chemical profiles and skincare properties.

Frequently Asked Questions

Bisabolol — common questions

What is Bisabolol in skincare?

Bisabolol is a colorless, oily liquid derived from German chamomile. It’s the primary component of chamomile essential oil and is commonly incorporated into cosmetic formulations such as facial makeup, skincare products, and hair care products.

What does Bisabolol do? / Functions of Bisabolol?

Common functions: FRAGRANCE, SKIN CONDITIONING, SOOTHING.

What is the comedogenic rating of Bisabolol? / Is Bisabolol comedogenic?
1 1/5 — Very low risk

Bisabolol has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. A rating of 1 means it is unlikely to clog pores.

Does it clog pores?
Unlikely to Clog Pores

Bisabolol is unlikely to clog pores (rating 1/5).

Is Bisabolol safe for skin?
1 1/5 — Very low risk

Bisabolol has a safety rating of 1 out of 5. A rating of 1 means it is generally considered safe for most skin types. Note: Soothing anti-inflammatory (often from chamomile); CIR/EWG indicate low toxicity and low sensitization—rare allergy possible especially if botanically derived/impure. Generally considered safe for top

Is Bisabolol good for sensitive skin?
1 1/5 — Very low risk

Bisabolol has an irritancy rating of 1 out of 5. A rating of 1 means it is generally well-tolerated.

What are the side effects of Bisabolol in skincare?

Known considerations: Soothing anti-inflammatory (often from chamomile); CIR/EWG indicate low toxicity and low sensitization—rare allergy possible especially if botanically derived/impure. Generally considered safe for topical use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. May cause irritation in rare cases of pre-existing sensitivity or when used in high concentrations.

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