What Is Vaccinium Myrtillus Seed Extract?
Vaccinium Myrtillus Seed Extract comes from the small dark berries better known as bilberries. While most people recognize the fruit, this cosmetic ingredient is made only from the seeds. The tiny seeds are rich in natural oils that contain fatty acids such as linoleic and oleic acid along with antioxidant vitamins like vitamin E. These compounds help explain why the extract feels nourishing on skin.
Bilberries grow wild across Northern Europe and have been used for centuries in jams and desserts. Interest in the seeds began in the 1990s when cold-pressing technology made it possible to separate the oil without harsh solvents. Skin-care chemists soon noticed that the lightweight oil left a soft finish and helped hold moisture, so it started to appear in boutique face oils and balms. Over time larger brands adopted it for its clean, plant-based appeal.
The manufacturing process is straightforward. After the berries are harvested and the pulp removed for food use, the leftover seeds are washed, dried then mechanically pressed. The resulting oil is filtered to remove solids, sometimes lightly refined to reduce odor, and finally standardized for use in cosmetics.
Today you will find Vaccinium Myrtillus Seed Extract in hydrating serums, daily moisturizers, nourishing masks, anti-aging creams, lip balms and after-sun lotions. Because the oil is light and absorbs quickly formulators also blend it into hair leave-ins and cuticle treatments.
Vaccinium Myrtillus Seed Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In products applied to the skin this ingredient serves one main purpose.
As a skin-conditioning agent Vaccinium Myrtillus Seed Extract helps keep the outer layer of skin soft smooth and flexible. Its fatty acids support the skin barrier so moisture stays in and dryness is reduced. The natural antioxidants in the oil add an extra layer of protection against everyday environmental stress which can make the complexion look tired.
Who Can Use Vaccinium Myrtillus Seed Extract
This ingredient is generally well tolerated by most skin types. Its light texture suits oily and combination skin because it absorbs quickly while the fatty acids make it comforting for dry mature or dehydrated skin. Sensitive skin usually does fine with it as the extract is free of common irritants, although anyone with a known berry allergy should proceed cautiously.
Because it is derived solely from plant seeds it is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians. No animal by-products are involved in the harvesting or processing stages.
Current research shows no specific warnings for topical use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, yet bodies can be unpredictable during this time. This information is not medical advice and pregnant or nursing individuals should run any skincare product they plan to use past a doctor to be on the safe side.
Vaccinium Myrtillus Seed Extract is not known to cause photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. Normal sun protection practices should still be followed.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical Vaccinium Myrtillus Seed Extract can vary from person to person. The points below list potential reactions, but they are uncommon when the ingredient has been correctly formulated and most users will not experience them.
- Allergic contact dermatitis – itching, redness or a rash in people who are sensitive to bilberry or other fruit seeds
- Mild stinging or warmth – temporary sensation that usually fades within minutes of application
- Clogged pores – rare congestion in individuals highly prone to breakouts if used in heavy products or layered excessively
- Interaction with other active ingredients – very rich formulas combining several oils may feel too occlusive for oily skin
If any negative reaction occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 (very low)
The lightweight texture and high level of linoleic acid mean this oil sits on skin without forming a thick film that blocks pores. Most laboratory and anecdotal reports place bilberry seed oil alongside other low clogging plant oils such as rosehip and cranberry. For that reason it is generally considered suitable for acne or breakout-prone skin, especially in formulas designed to be fast-absorbing.
As with any oil there is a tiny chance of congestion if it makes up a large percentage of a heavy cream or is layered excessively. Products that blend the extract with richer butters may raise the overall comedogenicity, so checking the full ingredient list is wise.
Summary
Vaccinium Myrtillus Seed Extract is valued in cosmetics for its skin-conditioning talent. The mix of essential fatty acids reinforces the skin barrier while natural antioxidants help fend off dullness linked to everyday environmental stress. The oil is feather-light, absorbs quickly and leaves a soft hydrated finish that suits a wide range of skin types.
Although not as famous as argan or jojoba, bilberry seed oil has carved out a steady niche in clean beauty serums, moisturizers and lip balms thanks to its gentle feel and sustainable sourcing from fruit industry leftovers.
Safety data show a low risk of irritation or clogged pores and the ingredient is vegan friendly. Still, everyone’s skin is unique so perform a patch test whenever trying a new product that features Vaccinium Myrtillus Seed Extract to ensure it works well for you.