Lesquerella Fendleri Seed Oil: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: July 1, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Lesquerella Fendleri Seed Oil?

Lesquerella Fendleri Seed Oil is a plant oil pressed from the small tan seeds of Lesquerella fendleri, a flowering plant native to the arid regions of the southwestern United States. The oil is rich in unique long-chain hydroxy fatty acids, primarily lesquerolic acid, which give it a thick yet silky feel similar to castor oil but with better oxidative stability. Originally studied for industrial lubricants in the 1980s, the oil caught the attention of cosmetic chemists looking for renewable alternatives to mineral oils and silicones. To make it, harvested seeds are mechanically cold pressed, then the crude oil is filtered and lightly refined to remove odors and pigments while preserving its fatty acid profile. The end product is a pale yellow, virtually odorless liquid that blends easily with other plant oils, esters and silicones. You will most often see Lesquerella Fendleri Seed Oil in moisturizers, anti-aging creams, hair conditioners, leave-in treatments, lip balms and nourishing face masks where it adds emolliency and a smooth after-feel.

Lesquerella Fendleri Seed Oil’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This versatile oil offers two key functions in personal care formulas:

  • Hair conditioning: Forms a lightweight film over the hair shaft that smooths cuticles, reduces frizz, boosts shine and helps lock in moisture, leaving strands soft without a greasy finish
  • Skin conditioning: Acts as an emollient that fills in microscopic cracks on the skin surface, improving softness and flexibility while supporting the skin barrier to limit water loss

Who Can Use Lesquerella Fendleri Seed Oil

Thanks to its balanced fatty acid profile this oil suits most skin types, especially normal to dry or mature skin that needs extra softness and barrier support. Oily or acne-prone skin usually tolerates it well because it absorbs without a heavy residue, but anyone extremely prone to clogged pores may prefer lighter esters or gels.

Lesquerella Fendleri Seed Oil is completely plant derived so it is appropriate for vegans and vegetarians looking to avoid animal by-products in their beauty routine.

No specific warnings exist for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the oil is used topically in cosmetic amounts. That said this information does not replace medical advice and expecting or nursing mothers should check with their doctor before adding any new skincare product.

The oil is non-photosensitizing so it will not make skin more sensitive to the sun. It is also a useful option for people with nut allergies because it comes from a non-nut seed.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Side effects from topical use of Lesquerella Fendleri Seed Oil vary from person to person. The issues listed below are only potential effects and are unlikely for the average user when the ingredient has been properly processed and formulated.

  • Allergic contact dermatitis presenting as redness, itching or rash
  • Mild irritation on very sensitive or compromised skin
  • Breakouts or congestion in individuals highly prone to acne
  • Unpleasant odor or color change if the oil has oxidized, which can itself trigger minor irritation

If you notice any of these reactions stop using the product and consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1 (very low likelihood of clogging pores)

Lesquerella Fendleri Seed Oil contains mainly long chain hydroxy fatty acids that are slow to penetrate follicular openings and less likely to solidify inside pores than shorter chain saturated fats. Its viscosity is balanced by a relatively quick absorb feel so it tends to sit lightly on the skin rather than forming a heavy occlusive film. Because of that, it is generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts, though extremely congestion-prone users may still prefer lighter esters.

As with most plant oils, freshness matters. If the oil oxidizes it can become thicker and more pore-blocking, so well-formulated products that use antioxidants or come in air-tight packaging will perform best.

Summary

Lesquerella Fendleri Seed Oil serves mainly as a skin and hair conditioning agent. On skin, its unique hydroxy fatty acids fill in tiny surface gaps, soften rough patches and reinforce the barrier to slow water loss. On hair, the oil forms a smooth microfilm that aligns cuticles, reduces frizz and adds slip and shine without a greasy after-feel. These benefits make it a handy alternative to heavier plant oils or synthetic silicones.

While still a niche ingredient, it is gaining attention among green beauty brands and small-batch formulators looking for sustainable options with a pleasant skin feel. Supply is more limited than mainstream oils like jojoba or argan so you will usually find it in higher-end or indie products rather than on every drugstore shelf.

Safety data show a low risk of irritation or sensitization for most users. Even so, when trying any new product that contains this oil it is wise to perform a small patch test first to confirm personal compatibility.

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