What Is Corylus Americana Seed Extract?
Corylus Americana Seed Extract comes from the nuts of the American hazelnut tree, a shrub native to North America that has been valued for its nutritious kernels since Indigenous communities first harvested them. The extract is rich in skin-friendly oils made up of fatty acids like oleic and linoleic acid along with natural vitamin E and plant sterols. These components give the ingredient a light, silky feel and a mild, nutty scent that blends well in personal care products.
To make the extract, cleaned and shelled hazelnuts are crushed then pressed or gently treated with food-grade solvents to pull out the oil. The resulting liquid is filtered to remove solids and deodorized for a neutral smell, leaving a clear to pale-yellow oil that is ready for cosmetic use.
Because the oil is stable and absorbs quickly, formulators add it to moisturizers, facial oils, lip balms, hand creams, hair serums, anti-aging blends and soothing masks. It often appears alongside botanical butters and other seed oils to boost hydration without feeling heavy.
Corylus Americana Seed Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Corylus Americana Seed Extract is prized chiefly for one key role in skin care.
Skin conditioning: The oil’s mix of fatty acids supports the skin’s natural barrier, helping to lock in moisture and soften rough patches. Its light texture sinks in fast, leaving a smooth non-greasy finish that can make formulations feel more luxurious and easier to spread.
Who Can Use Corylus Americana Seed Extract
Corylus Americana Seed Extract suits most skin types, including dry, normal, combination and even oily complexions, thanks to its lightweight texture and quick absorption. Those with extremely acne-prone skin may want to monitor how their skin responds because any oil can occasionally feel too rich for some users.
The extract is entirely plant based so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals are not known to face specific risks from topical use of hazelnut oil, but this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should check with a healthcare professional before adding new products to a routine.
The ingredient does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and there are no known issues with daytime use. People who have a diagnosed tree nut allergy should avoid products containing this extract to prevent a possible allergic reaction.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Corylus Americana Seed Extract vary person to person. The points below outline potential issues that could arise, though most users will not experience them when products are formulated correctly.
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals with tree nut allergies
- Redness or itching on highly sensitive skin
- Clogged pores or breakouts in users prone to comedogenic reactions
- Irritation from oxidized or rancid oil if the product is past its shelf life
If you notice any of these effects stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5 – Corylus Americana Seed Extract is mainly composed of lightweight oleic and linoleic acids that absorb quickly and leave little residue, so it is unlikely to block pores for most users. Its molecules are smaller and more skin-compatible than heavier plant oils, which keeps the risk of congestion low.
This makes the ingredient generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts, although individual responses can vary.
Because any oil can oxidize over time, using fresh, well-stored products further minimizes the chance of pore blockage from degraded material.
Summary
Corylus Americana Seed Extract primarily acts as a skin-conditioning agent. Its mix of fatty acids, vitamin E and plant sterols reinforces the skin barrier, boosts softness and delivers a smooth feel without heaviness.
While not as widely publicized as argan or jojoba oil, American hazelnut extract is gaining quiet popularity among indie and clean beauty brands looking for locally sourced, fast-absorbing oils.
Topical use is considered very safe for the general population, with the main caution being for anyone with a tree nut allergy. As with any new cosmetic ingredient it is wise to perform a simple patch test before full use to catch any personal sensitivities early.