You probably know carrots are good for you—but have you heard about carrot seed oil? This golden-orange oil is typically used topically for anti-aging, acne treatment, eczema, psoriasis, and even sun protection. But how much of this is true? And what’s the difference between carrot seed oil and regular carrot oil? Let’s explore the beauty benefits of these oils and what to consider if you want to try them.
### Carrot Oil vs. Carrot Seed Oil
Not all carrot oils are the same. Carrot oil is made by soaking ground carrots in olive, coconut, or other plant oils. It’s sometimes called wild carrot oil, Queen Anne’s lace oil, or bishop’s lace oil. While it has antioxidant properties, it’s considered a “carrier oil.”
Carrot seed oil, on the other hand, is steam-distilled from wild carrot seeds (Daucus carota sativa), making it an essential oil.
### What Is Carrot Oil Used For?
Carrot seed oil has many uses—it’s found in fragrances for soaps, lotions, and perfumes, and even as a flavoring in foods and drinks. It’s also used in aromatherapy.
Carrot oil, meanwhile, is mainly used in cosmetics, especially sunscreens, due to its high beta-carotene content. It’s also added to beauty products, foods, and supplements for vitamin A benefits.
### The Benefits of Carrot Seed Oil
Carrot seed essential oil (CSEO) is packed with beneficial compounds like caratol and terpenes (α-Pinene, sabinene, myrcene, etc.), which give it anti-inflammatory properties and a mild, earthy scent. Traditionally, it’s been used for digestive issues, joint pain relief, and as an antimicrobial and antioxidant.
When applied to the skin, it has antifungal properties and can fight bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and Listeria monocytogenes. It may also help against E. coli and Salmonella.
Like carrot oil, carrot seed oil may offer some sun protection thanks to umbelliferone, a compound that absorbs UVB rays. Some studies suggest it could also help prevent skin aging.
### Carrot Seed Oil for Skin
Thanks to its antioxidant, antibacterial, and antifungal properties, carrot seed oil may help with:
– Anti-aging
– UV protection
– Sensitive skin & conditions (dermatitis, psoriasis, eczema, acne)
You can find it in face washes, serums, and dark spot treatments, or mix it with a carrier oil for a skin-nourishing massage. For eczema or rashes, apply gently to avoid irritation. You can even add a drop to shampoo or conditioner for scalp care.
### Is Carrot Seed Oil Safe for Sensitive Skin?
While generally safe, essential oils can irritate some people. To minimize risk, always dilute carrot seed oil with a carrier oil before applying it to your skin.
Would you try it in your skincare routine?Dilute the essential oil with a carrier oil like coconut, almond, or grapeseed oil before applying it.