What Is Amaranthus Cruentus Seed Oil?
Amaranthus Cruentus Seed Oil is a plant oil pressed from the tiny seeds of Amaranthus cruentus, a flowering grain traditionally grown in Central and South America. The seeds are naturally rich in unsaturated fatty acids like linoleic and oleic acid, lightweight squalene, vitamin E and peptides that give the oil its skin-friendly profile. Ancient cultures valued amaranth as a food staple and as a treatment for dry or irritated skin. Modern interest grew in the 1970s after studies highlighted its unusually high squalene content, a compound also found in our skin’s own sebum.
To make the cosmetic-grade oil, harvested seeds are cleaned, mechanically cold-pressed and then filtered to remove impurities. This gentle process keeps heat-sensitive nutrients intact and results in a clear to pale-yellow oil with a mild, nutty scent. You can now spot Amaranthus Cruentus Seed Oil in facial oils, lightweight moisturizers, anti-aging serums, after-sun gels, scalp treatments, masks and soothing balms where a non-greasy yet nourishing emollient is desired.
Amaranthus Cruentus Seed Oil’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
When added to skincare or hair care formulas, Amaranthus Cruentus Seed Oil offers two primary benefits:
- Skin conditioning: The mix of fatty acids and natural squalene helps soften rough patches, smooth texture and leave skin feeling supple without a heavy residue
- Skin protecting: An antioxidant dose of vitamin E plus a light occlusive film help shield skin from moisture loss and support the barrier against daily environmental stress
Who Can Use Amaranthus Cruentus Seed Oil
This feather-light plant oil suits most skin types, including dry, normal and combination skin that craves extra softness without a greasy film. Oily or acne-prone complexions usually handle it well because its natural squalene mimics skin’s own lipids and sinks in quickly, though anyone extremely prone to clogged pores may prefer to patch test first. Sensitive skin often benefits from its soothing profile and low fragrance.
The oil is pressed solely from a plant source so it is appropriate for vegans and vegetarians looking to avoid animal-derived ingredients.
Current research shows no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the oil is used topically in cosmetic amounts. This is not medical advice so anyone expecting or nursing should still check with their healthcare provider before adding new products, just to be safe.
Amaranthus Cruentus Seed Oil does not increase photosensitivity, meaning it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. Standard daytime sun protection is still needed for overall skin health.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Amaranthus Cruentus Seed Oil vary from person to person. The effects listed below are possible but uncommon when the ingredient is used as intended in a finished cosmetic product.
- Contact allergy – rare itching, redness or rash in individuals sensitive to amaranth proteins or seed oils in general
- Mild congestion – occasional clogged pores or small breakouts in very oil-sensitive skin if applied too generously
- Product spoilage irritation – unpleasant odor or stinging if the oil has oxidized due to age or improper storage
If any irritation or other negative reaction occurs discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5. Amaranthus Cruentus Seed Oil is largely composed of lightweight squalene and linoleic-rich fatty acids that absorb quickly and do not linger on the surface, so it rarely traps dead cells or debris inside pores. For this reason it is generally considered suitable for skin that is prone to acne or breakouts.
Because it is an unsaturated oil, it can oxidize faster than some heavier plant oils. Using products packed in tight, light-blocking containers helps keep the oil fresh and reduces any chance of pore irritation linked to rancid lipids.
Summary
Amaranthus Cruentus Seed Oil works mainly as a skin-conditioning and skin-protecting agent. Its blend of linoleic and oleic acids softens rough areas while natural squalene mimics skin’s own sebum to reinforce the moisture barrier. Antioxidant vitamin E adds an extra shield against everyday environmental stress.
The oil is still a bit of a niche ingredient compared with classics like jojoba or argan but formulators who value its high squalene content and fast-absorbing feel are using it more often in light moisturizers, serums and after-sun products.
Topical use of this oil is considered low risk for most people, with only rare reports of allergy or congestion. As with any new skincare ingredient it is wise to patch test first to rule out individual sensitivities.