Cranberry Seed Extract
Plant extracts
Cranberry Seed Extract at a glance
- Natural extract from cranberry seeds
- Contains skin-beneficial antioxidants
- May be used as exfoliating scrub particles
- Also goes by Vaccinium macrocarpon (cranberry) seed
Cranberry Seed Extract description
Cranberry seed extract is a natural skin care ingredient obtained from the seeds of cranberries. Cranberry seeds are known for their potent antioxidants. The North American species of cranberries used in cosmetics goes by the INCI name _Vaccinium macrocarpon_ (cranberry) seed. Cranberry seeds can be used as exfoliating scrub particles. If not smoothly, finely milled, the abrasive nature of the irregularly shaped particles can be harsh on skin, leading to barrier disruption/impairment. Using cranberry seed in this form is not best practice in modern day cosmetics (there are gentler, more effective forms of exfoliating ingredients available, such as jojoba beads). Occasionally brands used the terms cranberry seed extract and cranberry seed oil interchangeably—although they carry different implications. The seed oil form is highly favored in skin care research thanks to its soothing, moisturizing properties in addition to providing beneficial omega fatty acids and antioxidants to skin. See our Ingredient Dictionary entry for _Vaccinium macrocarpon_ (Cranberry) Seed Oil for more info. Cranberry seed extract and other cranberry-derived cosmetic ingredients have the potential to be upcycled as byproducts from the agricultural industry. Upcycling helps divert waste and reduce environmental impact by utilizing portions of the plant that would otherwise be discarded.