Ingredient review
Cloudberry Seed Oil
INCI: RUBUS CHAMAEMORUS SEED OIL
Cloudberry seed oil is a lightweight, antioxidant-rich oil that helps nourish and protect the skin without clogging pores.
In plain English
Cloudberry seed oil is pressed from the seeds of the cloudberry, a wild Arctic fruit. It's rich in vitamin E, ellagic acid, and omega fatty acids that help moisturize, soothe, and defend the skin against environmental stress. Because it's light and non-greasy, it works well for many skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Strong fit for many routines
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- natural
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Easy yes for most routines
Cloudberry Seed Oil is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Cloudberry Seed Oil.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
Cloudberry seed oil is a cold-pressed vegetable oil extracted from the seeds of Rubus chamaemorus, a hardy berry plant native to northern bogs and tundra. It contains high levels of vitamin E (tocopherols), ellagic acid, and essential fatty acids like linoleic and alpha-linolenic acid.
How it works
When applied to the skin, cloudberry seed oil forms a protective barrier that locks in moisture and helps prevent water loss (transepidermal water loss, or TEWL). Its antioxidants, especially vitamin E and ellagic acid, help neutralize free radicals from UV and pollution, reducing oxidative stress that can lead to premature aging.
Pros
Lightweight moisture
Cloudberry seed oil absorbs quickly without leaving a heavy or sticky feel, making it comfortable for daily use even under makeup.
Potent antioxidant protection
High levels of vitamin E and ellagic acid help defend skin cells from free radical damage caused by UV rays and pollution.
Cons and cautions
Higher cost
Because cloudberries grow in remote Arctic regions and are hand-harvested, the oil is more expensive than many common plant oils.
Limited research
While its components are well-studied, specific clinical studies on cloudberry seed oil for skin are fewer than for oils like rosehip or argan.
Best for
- People with dry or dehydrated skin
- Those looking for a lightweight, non-comedogenic facial oil
- Anyone wanting extra antioxidant protection in their routine
Use caution if
- Individuals with a known allergy to cloudberries or related Rosaceae plants (rare)
Usage tips
Safety summary
Cloudberry seed oil is considered safe for topical use with a low risk of irritation or clogged pores. As with any new ingredient, perform a patch test if you have sensitive skin or known allergies to berries.
Research notes
Research on cloudberry seed oil focuses on its antioxidant and fatty acid profile. Ellagic acid and vitamin E are well-documented for skin protection, but direct clinical trials on the oil itself are limited. Existing evidence supports its use as a nourishing emollient.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at 1–10% in leave-on products
- Regulatory status
- Approved as a cosmetic ingredient in the EU and US; no specific restrictions.
- Common uses
- Facial oils, Serums, Moisturizers, Lip balms
- Environmental note
- Cloudberries are wild-harvested in northern wetlands; sustainable harvesting practices help protect fragile Arctic ecosystems.
Good to know
- Cloudberry seed oil is often blended with other oils in commercial products, so check the full ingredient list.
- It has a very mild, nutty scent that most people find pleasant.
Common questions
What is Cloudberry Seed Oil in beauty products?
Cloudberry seed oil is pressed from the seeds of the cloudberry, a wild Arctic fruit. It's rich in vitamin E, ellagic acid, and omega fatty acids that help moisturize, soothe, and defend the skin against environmental stress. Because it's light and non-greasy, it works well for many skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin.
What does Cloudberry Seed Oil do in a beauty product?
When applied to the skin, cloudberry seed oil forms a protective barrier that locks in moisture and helps prevent water loss (transepidermal water loss, or TEWL). Its antioxidants, especially vitamin E and ellagic acid, help neutralize free radicals from UV and pollution, reducing oxidative stress that can lead to premature aging.
Is Cloudberry Seed Oil safe for most people?
Cloudberry seed oil is considered safe for topical use with a low risk of irritation or clogged pores. As with any new ingredient, perform a patch test if you have sensitive skin or known allergies to berries.
Who should be careful with Cloudberry Seed Oil?
Individuals with a known allergy to cloudberries or related Rosaceae plants (rare)
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.