Are you struggling with acne breakouts and frustrating scars? If you’re on a quest for a natural solution, the answer is black seed oil.
For centuries, people have seen black seed oil as a miraculous remedy. Lately, it’s becoming a big deal in the beauty world, especially for getting rid of acne.
You might have heard about other things like benzoyl peroxide and retinol for acne, but they can sometimes make your skin dry, sting, itch or even burn. Black seed oil is like a gentler alternative that still works just as well.
But, can it really help clear up acne and fade scars? Get ready to discover all the answers you need to know about this amazing oil.
What Is Black Seed Oil?
Derived from Nigella sativa plant, native to the Middle East, black seed oil is extracted from black seeds, also referred as black cumin seeds. This oil has been a staple in traditional remedies for centuries, renowned for its anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal properties.
It contains essential nutrients such as folic acid and amino acids, contributing to its potential benefits for various skin conditions.
Health & Beauty Benefits Of Black Seed Oil
Here are some general benefits of using black seed oil1.
- Acne healing
Black seed oil has thymoquinone2, a strong germ fighter that helps treat acne.
The oil has useful fatty acids: 50.2% linoleic acid, 19.9% oleic acid, and 2.5% stearic acid. Linoleic acid cleans pores and controls oily skin. Oleic acid keeps skin hydrated.
In a 2010 study3, 62 people with mild to moderate acne tried a 20% black seed oil lotion and a 5% benzoyl peroxide lotion.
The black seed oil worked better to reduce acne and acne scars.
Other studies confirm that gel with black seed oil applied topically can reduce acne vulgaris even by 78%4!
- Skin soothing
Black seed oil carries anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe irritation and inflamed skin, calming redness caused by acne.
- Antioxidant boost
Black seed oil is full of helpful things like phenolic acid compounds (thymoquinone, thymol, carvacrol) and saponins that make it good at fighting off harmful molecules. With its rich antioxidant content, black seed oil aids in shielding the skin from harmful radicals, promoting a healthier complexion.
- Natural moisturization
The oil doesn’t stop at fighting acne- it also smoothens out signs of getting older. It’s got lots of linoleic acid, which is like a helper for making sure your skin has strong protective barriers.
The oil’s emollient properties hydrate your skin without clogging pores, making it a great choice for those with acne prone skin.
- Better absorption of other skincare products
Because of its high linoleic acid content, black cumin seed oil helps your skin soak in other products better. This makes your skincare routine work better, as these products can go deeper into your skin.
Does Black Seed Oil Have Any Side Effects?
Just like with any remedy, black seed oil might have some possible side effects, but remember that these effects can differ from person to person. Here are some things to keep in mind regarding potential side effects:
- Allergic reactions
Some people may be allergic to black seed oil. Allergic reactions can range from skin rashes to more severe symptoms. If you’re allergic to buttercups, columbines, and black seeds, you should avoid using black seed oil.
- Digestive problems
In some cases, black seed oil causes gastrointestinal discomfort, such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. If you experience these symptoms, stop using it.
- Blood sugar regulation
Black seed oil can lower blood sugar levels. People with diabetes or hypoglycemia should check their blood sugar levels closely if they use black seed oil, as it could potentially interact with medications and treatment.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before using black seed oil because there’s limited research on its safety for this group.
- Drug interactions
Black seed oil interacts with some drugs. So, if you’re taking medications that affect blood sugar, blood pressure or blood clotting, it’s better to talk to your doctor before using it.
- Exacerbates autoimmune conditions
Black seed oil stimulates your immune system. So, consult your doctor, if you have an autoimmune disorder.
Can I Put Black Seed Oil On My Face?
Yes. You can use black cumin seed oil on your face or body to help with acne and keep your skin moisturized. It is safe5 and won’t clog your pores, which is especially good for people with oily or acne prone-skin.
You can put black seed oil straight on your skin without mixing it. But it’s also okay to mix it with natural oils like jojoba or grapeseed for extra benefits.
Can Black Seed Oil Clear Skin?
Packed with over 100 vitamins and minerals, black cumin seed oil is a strong antioxidant. It helps fighting bacteria, fungi, and inflammation. It contains familiar vitamins like A, B and C, plus amino acids and fatty acids.
This oil helps skin stay moisturized, elastic, and fights free radicals that cause lines. When used right it can even unblock pores, control excess oil, reduce acne scars and help with breakouts6.
PRO TIP: If you’re struggling with acne, you may also have heard about hyaluronic acid as a remedy for breakouts. But in some cases it can actually make the acne worse! Read my article here about using hyaluronic acid for acne and acne scarring.
Is Black Seed Oil Good For Acne?
You bet! Black seed oil is like a superhero for acne. It’s got thymoquinone and other active ingredients that fight bacteria and redness.
It also helps with dark spots, skin inflammations and has many other incredible benefits which makes it a must in your skincare routine if you’re dealing with acne prone skin.
How Long Does It Take For Black Seed Oil To Clear Acne?
The time it takes for black cumin seed oil to clear acne can vary widely from person to person. Some people see improvements in their skin within a few weeks, while others take longer.
It can be influenced by the severity of acne, your skin type, overall skincare routine, and lifestyle factors like diet and stress.
It’s recommended7 to give it at least 4 to 6 weeks of consistent use before looking for its effectiveness. However, if you’re not seeing improvements or if your acne worsens, it’s better to consult your dermatologist for personalized advice and other treatment options.
Does Black Seed Oil Clog Pores?
Lots of oils and skincare stuff can help skin in some ways, but some can make skin problems even worse by blocking and clogging pores. But you don’t have to worry about that with black cumin seed oil!
It doesn’t clog pores, and it has a great skin barrier function. It’s great for blood circulation, and it helps with lines and wrinkles too. So, using it won’t mess up your pores, and won’t make your acne worse.
Black Seed Oil & Acne Scars – Is It Effective?
Sometimes, even after beating acne, there are scars that can stick around and make you worry about your skin and overall look.
But black seed oil brings a bunch of special nutrients that make your skin feel smooth and help those stubborn scars fade away.
I’m not saying to wait overnight miracles, but if you use black seed oil regularly, you can see those annoying reminders of your acne days saying their goodbyes.
And please remember, everyone’s skin is like a unique kingdom-some people might notice changes sooner, while others need a bit more patience.
Ways Of Using Black Seed Oil For Acne-Prone Skin & Acne Scars
You’re not limited to just one method of using black cumin seed oil for acne – there are actually several ways you can give it a go8.
- Direct application
You can totally put black seed oil on your face. Just use clean fingers to apply it. After washing the face, gently rub on the oil. Then, follow up with a moisturizer or another gentle oil to keep your skin hydrated.
- Vitamin supplement
If oil in your face isn’t your thing, you can take black seed oil as a vitamin. Just have a small spoonful (around 1-2g) per day. This way, you might not see super strong skin benefits, but you could get extra perks like feeling less stressed and healthier.
- Skincare products
You can find other skincare stuff with black cumin seed oil. But be careful- some products might say they fight acne but actually have bad stuff in them.
Always look at the ingredients and skip anything that might make your skin worse. And if you’re on a budget, consider getting pure black seed oil instead of pricier branded products.
How Do You Use Black Seed For Acne Scars?
Using black seed oil for acne scars isn’t a one-size-fits-all deal. Here’s a quick guide to trying it out:
How often Applying it a couple of times daily could help, but remember, every skin is unique. Start once daily and see how your skin reacts.
Time: Leave the oil on for about 20-30 minutes, or even overnight if you’re feeling bold. If you’re new to it, start with shorter times to be sure your skin agrees.
- To wash or not: Some wash it off after, while others leave it. This depends on what feels good for your skin.
Remember, your skin, your journey. If something feels off, adjust. Consult a dermatologist to make sure you’re on the right path to tackling those scars.
Tips For Using Black Seed Oil For Acne & Scars In A Safe Way
Before you start using black seed oil, here are a few things to think about.
Patch Test: Before you go all in with black seed oil, do a patch test on a small area of your skin (just like with any other new ingredient and product you include in your skincare). The goal is to make sure you don’t have any adverse reactions to black seed oil.
Frequency: Start slow. You can use black seed oil a few times a week to begin with, then gradually increase if your skin responds well.
Pure Oil: Look for 100% pure, cold-pressed black seed oil without any added ingredients or fillers for the best results.
Mixing: It’s generally safe to mix black seed oil with other carrier oils like jojoba or grapeseed. However, avoid mixing it with strong active ingredients like retinol or benzoyl peroxide, as it might lead to irritation.
Morning or Night: You can use black seed oil in both your morning and night routines. If you’re using it during the day, be sure to follow up with sunscreen.
Cleansing: Apply it to clean, dry skin for better absorption. If you’re using it as part of your nighttime routine, you can apply it after cleansing.
Sensitive Skin: If you have sensitive skin, consider diluting black seed oil with a milder carrier oil to prevent any potential irritation.
Consult a Pro: If you’re unsure, consulting a dermatologist or skincare professional is always a smart move, especially if you have existing skin conditions or concerns.
Keep in mind that everyone’s skin is different. What works for one might not work for another, so listen to your skin and adjust your routine accordingly.
The purpose of this article is informative and entertaining. It’s not a substitute for medical consultation or medical care. The author of this article does not accept any responsibility for any liability, loss or risk, personal or otherwise, incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, from any information or advice contained here. Safety should be your priority.
Resources:
- https://www.researchgate.net/
- https://www.webmd.com/
- https://www.healthline.com/
- https://theblushingbliss.com/
- https://www.greenbeautytalk.com/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
- https://goodglow.co/
