Description

Vaccinium Macrocarpon Seed refers to the seeds of the cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon). These seeds are known for their beneficial properties in cosmetics, particularly for their high content of essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and other bioactive compounds that support skin health and appearance.

Chemical Composition and Structure:

The seeds are rich in:

Essential Fatty Acids: Such as linoleic acid (omega-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3), which are crucial for maintaining skin barrier function and providing anti-inflammatory benefits.
Antioxidants: Including tocopherols (vitamin E) and phytosterols, which help protect the skin from oxidative stress and environmental damage.
Phytochemicals: Such as polyphenols and flavonoids that contribute to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of the seeds.
The chemical structure of these components includes long hydrocarbon chains (in fatty acids) and aromatic rings (in antioxidants), contributing to their functional properties.

Physical Properties:

The seeds themselves are small, hard, and dark-colored, typically brown to black. When processed into an oil or extract, the resulting product may be a dark yellow to green liquid or a powder. The oil derived from the seeds has a slightly nutty aroma and a smooth, non-greasy texture. It is soluble in other oils and organic solvents.

Production Process:

The production of Vaccinium Macrocarpon Seed oil or extract involves:

Harvesting: Cranberry seeds are collected after the fruit is processed or the seeds are separated from the fruit.
Extraction: The seeds are processed using methods such as cold pressing or solvent extraction to obtain the oil or extract.
Filtration: The oil or extract is filtered to remove any solid residues and impurities.
Refinement: The oil or extract may be refined to ensure a stable, high-quality product with consistent properties.

Applications:

Vaccinium Macrocarpon Seed oil or extract is used in a variety of cosmetic products due to its beneficial properties:

Moisturizers: Helps to hydrate and nourish the skin.
Serums: Provides antioxidant protection and supports skin repair.
Exfoliants: The powdered form can be used as a gentle exfoliant in scrubs and masks.
Hair Care Products: Adds shine and improves the texture of hair.
Environmental and Safety Considerations:

The environmental impact of producing Vaccinium Macrocarpon Seed oil or extract is relatively low, especially when sustainable harvesting and processing practices are employed. The seed oil or extract is generally considered safe for topical use and has a low risk of irritation or sensitization. As with any cosmetic ingredient, proper formulation and safety testing are essential, particularly for products intended for sensitive skin.

INCI Functions:


Abrasive agent. It contains abrasive particles to remove stains or biofilm that accumulate on the stratum corneum or teeth. Baking soda, kieselguhr, silica and many others have abrasive properties. Peeling or exfoliating products used in dermatology or cosmetic applications contain abrasive agents in the form of synthetic microspheres, however, these microspheres, or abrasive particles may not be biodegradable and create pollution in aquatic ecosystems.
Synonyms:

CAS: 91770-88-6 EC number 294-875-8