| What is it? |
Bisabolol (more specifically, α-bisabolol) is a naturally occurring antioxidant, soothing, anti-inflammatory, and anti-irritant ingredient. It can be sourced naturally or synthesized; the naturally occurring version is more active than the synthesized version. Natural sources include chamomile essential oil, panama plinia, and salie. |
| INCI |
Bisabolol |
| Appearance |
Clear to pale yellow liquid |
| Usage rate |
0.1–1% |
| Scent |
Weak floral scent |
| Solubility |
Oil |
| Why do we use it in formulations? |
Bisabolol offers soothing and anti-irritant properties to our formulations. |
| Do you need it? |
No |
| Refined or unrefined? |
I would recommend the natural version as it is more active than the synthesized version. |
| Strengths |
Excellent soothing ingredient at low concentrations. |
| Weaknesses |
Not very commonly available. |
| Alternatives & Substitutions |
Chamomile essential oil or an oil-soluble calendula or chamomile extract would be a good place to start. Check the bisabolol content in your chamomile essential oil to see how much bisabolol you’re getting and consider adjusting if necessary. |
| How to Work with It |
I typically include it with the essential oil blend in a formula, adding it during cool down. |
| Storage & Shelf Life |
Stored somewhere cool, dark, and dry, bisabolol has a stated shelf life of 24–36 months after manufacture (check with your supplier for details on what you’ve purchased). |
| Tips, Tricks, and Quirks |
Try including up to 1% bisabolol in your formulations for an anti-inflammatory boost. |
| Recommended starter amount |
10mL (1/3fl oz) |
| Where to Buy it |
Buy it from an online DIY ingredient supplier or Amazon. |
