Matricaria Oil

Good

Antioxidant

Matricaria Oil at a glance

  • Has antioxidant benefits
  • Also has soothing and antibacterial properties
  • Deemed safe as used in cosmetics
  • Commercial oil usually comes from the Chamomilla recutita, or German chamomile, plant

Matricaria Oil description

Matricaria oil is oil extracted from a genus of flowering plants known as _Matricaria_. Most of this oil used in cosmetics specifically comes from the _Chamomilla recutita_ plant, also known as German chamomile. Studies demonstrate matricaria oil has – as with many plant-derived oils – a wealth of antioxidant benefits. Further research demonstrates it also has soothing properties, along with antibacterial compounds that make it a popular addition in many skin care products. Naturally bluish green to green in color, since the use levels of this oil are so low (between 0.00001-0.29%) it typically does not impart a noticeable color to skin care products despite still being efficacious in these amounts. Note that as with all plant oils, routine exposure to air and light will cause the oil to oxidize and discolor (it will turn brown). Do not purchase products with this ingredient that are packaged in clear or jar containers. Matricaria oil is considered safe as used in cosmetics. Irritation tests using a 4% concentration of the oil—much greater than what’s typically used in cosmetics—was shown to be non-irritating and non-sensitizing after a 48-hour occluded patch test.

Matricaria Oil references

  • Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology, January 2024, pages 59-77
  • Planta Medica, July 2020, pages 114-121
  • Fitoterapia, October 2019, ePublication
  • International Journal of Toxicology, November/December 2018, pages 51S–79S

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.