Black seed oil, a solution to reduce acne?

Regarded as a miraculous ingredient during ancient Egypt, thevegetable oil of black cumin is today highly valued in the cosmetic and culinary fields. This ingredient, originating from the Near and Middle East, is extracted from black cumin seeds by first cold pressing. From an organoleptic point of view, black cumin oil presents itself as an orange liquid with a spicy and slightly bitter smell. Very little comedogenic, it sometimes forms part of the composition of products intended for acne-prone skin.

• Nigella oil can alleviate acne inflammations.

  Black seed oil exhibits intriguing anti-inflammatory properties that combat acne. These properties are derived from thymoquinone, one of its key active ingredients. This molecule operates at various levels within the body, helping to reduce the levels of interleukin-2, interleukin-6, and interleukin-1β (IL-2, IL-6, and IL-1β), which are pro-inflammatory cytokines. Thymoquinone also inhibits the expression of cyclooxygenase (COX), an enzyme that catalyses the conversion of arachidonic acid into prostaglandin H2. Prostaglandins are compounds that increase inflammation.

  In a recent study, it was demonstrated that the topical application of a balm containing 10% black seed oil on rats with an oedema resulted in a 60% reduction of the oedema within 4.5 hours. The number of leukocytes, cells of the immune system, also decreased by nearly 45%, as did the level of TNF-α, a pro-inflammatory cytokine, by approximately 50%. Thus, black seed oil can help to alleviate certain symptoms of acne, such as redness and blemishes, and prevent the onset of future scarring. Indeed, by reducing inflammation, the black seed oil can contribute to minimising tissue damage, which prevents marking.

  Please note : the anti-inflammatory properties of black seed oil have not been demonstrated on acne-prone skin, which encourages caution regarding the effectiveness of this ingredient on acne.

• Nigella oil inhibits bacterial proliferation.

  Some studies have highlighted a bactericidal activity of nigella vegetable oil against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The thymoquinone it contains could indeed be capable of preventing these microorganisms from adhering to the surface of cells, although this mechanism is still under debate. However, research has not yet focused on the effect of nigella oil on Cutibacterium acnes, which is involved in acne. Therefore, while the bactericidal action of this ingredient is promising, it is important to remain cautious.

Note : If you are suffering from severe acne, it is necessary to consult a dermatologist who can prescribe you a suitable treatment, as cosmetic care based on black seed oil are only supplements.