Organic Black Seed Oil: Benefits for Skin and Hair, and How to Use It

Black seed oil, also called nigella or black cumin oil, is a plant oil rich in linoleic acid, valued for blemish-prone skin and the scalp. Pure and cold-pressed, it is used in small amounts, alone or blended with a gentler oil.

What is black seed oil?

It is pressed from the small black seeds of Nigella sativa (INCI: Nigella Sativa Seed Oil). It is rich in linoleic acid (omega 6), contains thymoquinone, which gives it its peppery scent, and has a fluid texture that absorbs fairly quickly. Choose a virgin, cold-pressed, certified organic oil to keep its natural compounds.

Benefits for the skin

Combination, oily and blemish-prone skin. It nourishes without greasiness and helps keep skin clear.

Sensitive skin. Rich in essential fatty acids, it helps soothe the feeling of tightness. Use it diluted on very reactive skin.

Benefits for the hair and scalp

Massaged into the scalp before shampooing, it nourishes the scalp and helps limit itchiness and small dry flakes. As a pre-wash oil treatment, it adds suppleness and shine to dry lengths. For a full routine, pair it with organic castor oil.

How to use it

• Oily skin: 2 drops in the evening, alone or with 2 drops of jojoba oil.
• Sensitive skin: 1 drop of black seed oil for 4 drops of a gentle oil.
• Scalp: 5 to 10 drops massaged in, 30 minutes to overnight before shampooing, once or twice a week.

Precautions

• Patch-test in the crook of the elbow 24 hours before first use.
• Avoid the eye area and mucous membranes.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women, children: ask a doctor or pharmacist first.
• For external use only. Store away from light and heat; use within 12 months of opening.

How to choose it

Look for a certified organic (COSMOS Organic by Ecocert), virgin, cold-pressed, 100% pure oil in a tinted glass bottle. Naturoleum organic black seed oil meets all four criteria and is bottled in France by an ESAT (sheltered workshop). The seeds come from Egypt and the oil is pressed in Germany.

FAQ

Is black seed oil the same as black cumin oil?

Yes, both names refer to the same oil from Nigella sativa seeds. It is unrelated to cooking cumin.

Does it clog pores?

It is considered low-comedogenic and suits combination to oily skin when used at 1 to 3 drops.

How long before I see results?

Allow 3 to 4 weeks of regular use, the length of a skin renewal cycle.