Sesame Oil

Sesame Oil is a cold-pressed oil with a warm golden colour and a balanced oleic-to-linoleic ratio, plus natural sesamol and sesamin antioxidants that give it good stability. Its balanced fatty acids and antioxidants condition and soften the skin, helping it feel nourished and supple, and its warming, cushioning slip makes it a favourite for massage and body care. On hair it softens the scalp and strands and adds shine to dry, dull hair.

• INCI: Sesamum Indicum Seed Oil
• Extraction: cold pressed
• Fatty-acid profile: balanced oleic and linoleic acids; natural sesamol and sesamin
• Comedogenic rating: 3 (moderate)
• Feel: warm, cushioning slip; naturally stable
• How to use: up to 100% as a body or massage oil, or 3–25% of the oil phase in creams and lotions
• Solubility: oil-soluble · Shelf life: 24 months

Sesame oil is a cornerstone of Ayurvedic body care, traditionally used for warming self-massage. A 2018 review in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences examined how the fatty acids in oils like this behave on the skin.

Working with more than one oil? The Cosmetic Carrier Oil Formulator’s Handbook: 50 Oils Edition compares fatty-acid profiles, comedogenic ratings, absorption, shelf life and stability for 50 popular carrier oils in one reference.

Browse the full range of Cold-Pressed Carrier Oils & Butters, or read our guide to Cosmetic Carrier Oils.

Is Sesame Oil cold pressed? Yes — cold pressed to keep its natural antioxidants and warm colour.

Can it be used in facial serums? Yes — it works in serums for normal to dry skin, often blended with lighter oils.

Can it be used on hair? Yes — a traditional scalp and hair conditioning oil.