What Is Corylus Avellana Seed Extract?
Corylus Avellana Seed Extract is derived from the nuts of the common hazelnut tree, Corylus avellana L., which belongs to the birch family Betulaceae. The nuts are rich in fatty acids such as oleic and linoleic acid, small amounts of proteins and vitamins, and antioxidant phenolic compounds. Hazelnuts have been valued since ancient times for food and skin care, but it was only in the late twentieth century that cosmetic chemists began refining the nut to obtain a lightweight, non greasy extract suitable for modern formulations.
To create the extract, cleaned and shelled hazelnuts are cold pressed or solvent extracted to pull out their oil soluble components. The crude material is then filtered and sometimes further refined to remove odor or color, resulting in a clear to pale yellow fluid that blends easily with other cosmetic ingredients.
You will commonly find Corylus Avellana Seed Extract in moisturizers, facial oils, body lotions, anti aging serums, hand creams and nourishing hair masks. Its pleasant feel and mild nutty aroma make it a favorite in both mass market and luxury skin care lines.
Corylus Avellana Seed Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient is prized for its ability to condition the skin, leaving it soft and supple. By supplying essential fatty acids it supports the skin’s natural barrier, helps retain moisture and imparts a smooth, silky after feel. Formulators often choose it to enhance the sensory profile of a product, improve spreadability and provide lightweight nourishment without clogging pores.
Who Can Use Corylus Avellana Seed Extract
Corylus Avellana Seed Extract is generally well tolerated by most skin types. Its lightweight texture and balanced fatty acid profile make it a good fit for normal, dry and combination skin, while its non greasy finish can also suit many people with oily skin. Those with very sensitive or compromised skin should introduce it gradually, as any botanical ingredient carries a small risk of irritation.
Because the extract is sourced entirely from hazelnuts and does not involve any animal derived substances or by products, it is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians.
Topical use of this ingredient is considered low risk during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but this is not medical advice. Anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review their skincare routine with a qualified healthcare provider to ensure every product is appropriate for their specific situation.
Corylus Avellana Seed Extract does not heighten sensitivity to sunlight, so there is no added risk of photosensitivity when using it in daytime formulas.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Corylus Avellana Seed Extract differ from person to person. The points below outline potential, yet uncommon, side effects that could appear even when the ingredient has been properly formulated and preserved.
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals with tree nut allergies
- Localized redness, itching or stinging on very reactive skin
- Mild acne flare ups in people who are extremely pore clog prone
- Rancid smell or irritation if the product has oxidized past its shelf life
If a negative reaction occurs stop using the product immediately and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 2 / 5
Corylus Avellana Seed Extract is largely composed of oleic and linoleic acids, both of which absorb easily without forming an occlusive film. While its light texture keeps the pore-clogging risk low, the oleic acid content is a touch higher than in oils ranked 0 or 1, so a small chance of congestion remains for people with extremely reactive, blemish-prone skin. In most modern formulas the extract is refined and used at moderate levels, further lowering the likelihood of blocked pores. Therefore it is generally suitable for those who break out easily, though very acne-prone users may prefer spot-testing first. Extra refining reduces free fatty acids that can oxidize, so fresh, well-preserved products are least likely to cause issues.
Summary
Corylus Avellana Seed Extract conditions skin by supplying essential fatty acids that reinforce the barrier and lock in water, leaving a smooth, soft finish. Antioxidant phenolics provide added protection against daily environmental stress, and its light slip improves the feel and spread of creams, serums and hair masks.
The extract enjoys steady popularity in natural inspired skin care thanks to its pleasant feel, mild nutty scent and compatibility with a wide range of formulations. It is vegan friendly, generally safe for all skin types and poses minimal risk of irritation or comedogenicity when fresh and properly stored.
As with any new ingredient it is wise to perform a quick patch test the first time you try a product containing Corylus Avellana Seed Extract to confirm personal compatibility.