Cellulite dimples: black seed oil to prevent and target cellulite?

The cellulite corresponds to an alteration in the structure of the dermal and subcutaneous tissue, visually manifested by dimpling, most often observed on the thighs, buttocks or abdomen. Contrary to popular belief, it does not stem solely from excess fat mass but from a combination of mechanisms involving adipose tissue, microcirculation and the extracellular matrix. Three classic types of cellulite: the adipose cellulite, linked to an increase in adipocyte volume, the aqueous cellulite, associated with water retention and impaired lymphatic circulation, and the fibrous cellulite, which is more entrenched and often more difficult to reduce, characterised by fibrosis of the connective tissue. These different types can coexist and account for the variety of cellulite's appearances and progressions.

To date, the scientific evidence linking nigella oil to anti-cellulite activity is limited.

However, certain known mechanisms of nigella oil may elicit a theoretical interest, particularly in the context of adipose cellulite. This form of cellulite is indeed associated with adipocyte hypertrophy, to local oxidative stress and to low-grade inflammatory phenomena. The antioxidant properties of nigella oil may help curb lipid oxidation and preserve a more balanced tissue environment, while its anti-inflammatory compounds, such as the thymoquinone, could theoretically contribute to the modulation of certain inflammatory pathways involved in adipose tissue expansion. These effects, however, remain indirect and are more aligned with a preventive approach than with targeted intervention on established cellulite.

Some experimental data raise points for consideration. A study focused on the anti-adipogenic and hypolipidaemic effects of Nigella sativa in a metabolic context. In vitro, the authors treated 3T3-L1 preadipocytes with a methanolic extract of black cumin seeds, which led to a significant reduction in lipid accumulation without cytotoxic effects, associated with reduced expression of adipogenic factors such as PPARγ and C/EBP. These results suggest Nigella has the capacity to inhibit adipocyte differentiation, a potentially interesting mechanism in the context of adipose cellulite.

The study was supplemented by a controlled trial in humans, in which 42 participants, divided into two groups, consumed 5 g of Nigella sativa seed powder daily for 8 weeks, or a placebo. The results showed an improvement in blood lipid profile, with reduced triglycerides, LDL cholesterol and total cholesterol, as well as increased HDL cholesterol, commonly called 'good cholesterol'. These findings suggest a metabolic potential of Nigella sativa. However, this study relates to oral intake rather than topical application, and does not assess skin appearance or the presence of cellulite.

At present, the available data do not allow us to conclude that black seed oil is effective in preventing or targeting cellulite.

At best, its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, together with its indirect involvement in adipogenic pathways, may suggest a potential benefit in the case of adipose cellulite, but this remains to be demonstrated. Conversely, there is no evidence to associate nigella oil with any effect on aqueous cellulite, nor on fibrous cellulite.

• RAWLINGS A. Cellulite and its treatment. International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2006).

• GABBIANELLI R. & al. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of Nigella sativa oil in human pre-adipocytes. Antioxidants (2019).

• KAMINER M. S. & al. Cellulite. Plastic Surgery Key (2020).

• LISOWSKA K. A. & al. The immunomodulatory effect of Nigella sativa. Antioxidants (2023).

• KOJIMA-YUASA A. & al. Black cumin seed (Nigella sativa) confers anti-adipogenic effects in 3T3-L1 cellular model and lipid-lowering properties in human subjects. Food, Science and Nutrition (2025).