Sesame Oil

Sesame Oil

Sesame Oil is a plant-derived vegetable oil obtained from the seeds of the sesame plant, Sesamum indicum. Cosmetic-grade Sesame Oil is typically produced through mechanical pressing of sesame seeds, followed by filtration and optional refining to improve clarity, odor, and oxidative stability while preserving its functional lipid profile. The production process does not involve ethoxylation, sulfation, or petrochemical modification, supporting its use in clean and modern cosmetic formulations.

From a formulation standpoint, Sesame Oil functions primarily as an emollient and conditioning oil with a naturally balanced fatty acid composition. It contains a mix of oleic and linoleic acids along with naturally occurring antioxidants, which contribute to both skin conditioning and improved oxidative stability compared to many other seed oils. Sesame Oil integrates well into emulsions and anhydrous systems, supporting spreadability, softness, and formulation stability. Its performance is influenced by refinement level, usage concentration, and the overall oil-phase design.

In finished products, Sesame Oil delivers a smooth, nourishing skin feel with moderate richness. At lower usage levels, it enhances emolliency and glide without excessive heaviness, while higher levels provide deeper conditioning and barrier support. It is commonly used in creams, lotions, body oils, massage products, balms, soaps, hair oils, and scalp treatments where durability, skin comfort, and traditional botanical appeal are desired.

From a clean standards and safety perspective, Sesame Oil has a long history of cosmetic and topical use and broad acceptance across global regulatory frameworks. It is biodegradable and generally well tolerated for topical applications. Clean positioning is supported by its plant-derived origin and minimal processing, though allergen considerations may be relevant for sensitive individuals. Its reliability and versatility support inclusion in ingredient offerings carefully selected by Suncoast PCP for dependable cosmetic formulation performance.

Suncoast PCP carefully selects Sesame Oil based on quality, consistency, and formulation versatility, ensuring reliable performance across skincare and haircare applications while aligning with clean and modern formulation standards.

Ingredient Identification

INCI Name: Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Oil
CAS Number: 8008-74-0

Physical & Technical Properties

Appearance: Clear to pale yellow liquid
Odor: Mild to characteristic
Melting Point: Liquid at room temperature
Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in oils and oil phases
Viscosity: Low to medium
Functional Role: Emollient, conditioning oil, sensory modifier

Typical Usage Levels (Skincare & Haircare)

Facial Oils and Serums: 5–100%
Lotions and Creams: 2–15%
Body Oils and Massage Products: 5–25%
Soaps and Cleansing Bars: 5–20%
Hair Oils and Scalp Treatments: 1–10%

Actual usage levels vary depending on desired sensory profile, richness, and formulation design.

DIY Education and Formulation Guidance

For DIY formulators, Sesame Oil is easy to work with and suitable for both emulsified and anhydrous formulations. It is typically added to the oil phase and requires minimal heating. In massage oils and body oils, it may be used alone or blended with lighter oils to adjust slip and absorption.

Because Sesame Oil contains unsaturated fatty acids, the inclusion of antioxidants such as tocopherols is recommended to support oxidative stability, particularly in products intended for extended shelf life.

Formulation Compatibility & Common Combinations

Sesame Oil is compatible with a wide range of vegetable oils, esters, butters, waxes, emulsifiers, and surfactant systems. It is often blended with lighter oils such as sunflower or grape seed oil to reduce richness, or paired with butters and waxes to enhance body and occlusivity. In haircare formulations, it works well alongside conditioning agents and botanical extracts.

Shelf Life, Storage, and Packaging

Shelf Life: Typically 12–24 months depending on refinement and antioxidant system
Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry environment away from direct light and heat
Packaging Recommendations: Amber glass bottles, aluminum containers, or opaque HDPE packaging
Handling Notes: Minimize prolonged air exposure to reduce oxidation

Regulatory & Safety Notes

Regulatory Status: Approved for cosmetic use globally, including the United States and European Union
California Proposition 65: Not listed
EWG Context: Generally categorized as low hazard based on available data
Irritation and Sensitization: Generally well tolerated for topical cosmetic use; allergen awareness may be appropriate
Clean Beauty Compatibility: Plant-derived, biodegradable, and compatible with clean, natural-leaning, and transparency-focused formulation standards