Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Seed Oil – Cosmetic Uses in Skin Care
What Is Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Seed Oil?
Cucumis Sativus Seed Oil is the fixed oil expressed from the seeds of cucumber, Cucumis sativus L., from the Cucurbitaceae family.
The oil contains a high proportion of unsaturated fatty acids, particularly linoleic acid (64%) and oleic acid (17%). It also contains approximately 600–700 ppm tocopherols and 4,000–5,000 ppm phytosterols.
Cosmetic Applications
The composition of cucumber seed oil makes it particularly suitable for skin care formulations. Its high phytosterol content is associated with several properties relevant to maintaining healthy-looking skin.
Phytosterols can help support the skin's lipid barrier and moisture balance, contributing to a smoother skin surface and improved elasticity. They are also reported to stimulate skin cells and support the regeneration of healthy skin cells.
Cucumber seed oil can therefore be used in:
- Facial creams and lotions
- Moisturising products
- Skin-conditioning formulations
- Products targeting dry or rough skin
- Anti-ageing skin care formulations
Composition
The fatty acid profile of cucumber seed oil includes approximately:
- Linoleic acid (C18:2): 64%
- Oleic acid (C18:1): 17%
- Palmitic acid (C16:0): 11%
- Stearic acid (C18:0): 7.5%
It has a specific gravity of approximately 0.922, a saponification value of 185, and an iodine value of 125.
Safety
Botanical and botanically derived ingredients used in cosmetics are generally considered mild and have a long history of use. The safety of the finished cosmetic product must nevertheless be substantiated for its intended application.
Depending on the formulation and use, safety assessment may include consideration of skin and eye irritation, allergenicity, phototoxicity, photoallergenicity, and mutagenicity.
Ingredient Information
INCI: Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Seed Oil
Botanical Source: Cucumis sativus L.
Plant Family: Cucurbitaceae
Plant Part: Seed
Functions: Skin Conditioning, Emollient
References
Dweck, Anthony. Handbook of Natural Ingredients (Dweck Books 4) . Dweck Data.
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