What is it? |
Watermelon oil (or watermelon seed oil) is the liquid oil pressed from the seeds of the sweet watermelon (Citrullus Vulgaris). |
INCI |
Citrullus vulgaris seed oil |
Appearance |
Pale yellow transparent liquid |
Usage rate |
Up to 100% |
Texture |
Silky smooth with an almost powdery dry-down on the skin |
Scent |
Typical of most oils with a slight fruity note |
Absorbency Speed |
Fast |
Approximate Melting Point |
Liquid at room temperature, becomes cloudy in the fridge. |
Solubility |
Oil |
Why do we use it in formulations? |
Watermelon oil is a beautiful, lightweight emollient. It is mostly comprised of linoleic acid, with smaller amounts of oleic acid, palmitic acid, and stearic acid. It can be used to create light products that don’t feel heavy or oily on the skin. |
Do you need it? |
No, but it’s a nice, unique lightweight carrier oil. |
Refined or unrefined? |
I’ve only found watermelon oil as a refined product. |
Strengths |
Watermelon oil is a lovely, lightweight oil with a beautiful skin feel. |
Weaknesses |
Watermelon oil is not as readily available as many other similar carrier oils. |
Alternatives & Substitutions |
I’d choose another lightweight, fast-absorbing oil. Camellia seed oil, walnut oil, sunflower oil, and safflower oil would be good choices. |
How to Work with It |
Include watermelon oil in the oil phase of your formulations; it can be hot or cold processed. |
Storage & Shelf Life |
Stored somewhere cool, dark, and dry, watermelon oil can last up to two years. |
Tips, Tricks, and Quirks |
The phytosterols found in watermelon oil are rarely found in vegetable oils. |
Recommended starter amount |
100mL (3.3fl oz) |
Where to Buy it |
Buy it from an online DIY ingredient supplier or Amazon. |