While chamomile has long been recognized for its soothing properties, what you might not know is that its benefits aren’t confined to a calming cup of tea before bedtime. Here’s why. One of the primary bioactive components of chamomile is Bisabolol. And while this ingredient may not get the same buzz as say Retinol, Vitamin C or Squalane, it too has some serious skin-boosting superpowers and is especially beneficial for sensitive skin.
What is Bisabolol?
Bisabolol, also known as Alpha Bisabolol or A-Bisabolol, is a natural component of essential oils and a monocyclic sesquiterpene alcohol obtained through distillation. While historically this ingredient was primarily derived from German Chamomile, most of the isolated forms of Bisabolol in the skincare formulations are sourced from the endangered Brazilian Candeia Tree. More recently, thanks to innovations in biotechnology, Bisabolol is produced synthetically using clean, sustainable methods.
What are the benefits of Bisabolol in skincare?
While we don’t hear much about Bisabolol, this ingredient is a true hero in your skincare arsenal. Thanks to its moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties it delivers a host of benefits to the skin including moisturizing, soothing and anti-aging effects. Here’s how:
- Rich in Panthenol, a natural source of Vitamin B5, Bisabolol is a humectant meaning it draws moisture into the skin.
- Bisabolol has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties and works to calm irritation, sensitivity and redness.
- Studies* have found that Bisabolol can help prevent hyperpigmentation as it inhibits the synthesis of melanin.
- Bisabolol has antioxidant properties and protects the skin from free radical damage.
- Bisabolol has antimicrobial properties and works to inhibit bacterial growth on the skin.
- Bisabolol helps to enhance penetration of other skincare ingredients meaning it can boost their efficacy.
How should I use Bisabolol?
Bisabolol can be found in a range of skincare products from serums to face and body creams. Because of this ingredient’s soothing properties it is also a hero active in shave creams, sunscreens and scalp treatments as it works to calm skin irritation and redness. This also makes Bisabolol ideal for use after sun exposure or in conjunction with actives like Retinol. Because Bisabolol enhances the absorption of other ingredients, it is often combined with other actives such as Peptides and Niacinamide to improve their efficacy.
Here, five of our favorite clean beauty picks containing Bisabolol.
This transformative serum combines extra virgin olive oil with the botanical powers of Sea Lavender, Hyaluronic Acid, Bioactive Peptides And Bisabolol to reduce inflammation, repair sun-damaged skin and deliver day-long hydration. Suitable for all skin types, use after cleansing morning and night for supremely soft, supple skin.
Augustinus Bader The Body Cream
This luxurious, buttery body moisturizer is formulated with the brand's signature TFC8, a patented technology consisting of Amino Acids, Vitamins, and Peptides, along with Shea Butter, Glycerin, Sunflower Seed Oil And Bisabolol to calm stressed skin. Fragrance-free, it intensely hydrates, conditions, and renews, while visibly improving skin tone and texture.
JVN Hair Complete Pre-Wash Scalp Oil
This nutrient-dense, pre-shampoo treatment is designed to hydrate and cleanse the scalp, relieving itchiness and preventing flakiness with a blend of Hemisqualane, Rosemary Extract and calming, antimicrobial Bisabolol. Simply add a few drops directly on a dry scalp, then massage and work through the hair to the ends with your fingers or a wide tooth comb. Let sit for 15 minutes followed by your usual shampoo and conditioner. For best results incorporate into a hair cycling routine.
This 100% mineral sunscreen takes sun protection to the next level. Infused with a blend of high-performing skincare actives including Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide, Panthenol And Bisabolol to calm, hydrate and strengthen skin’s protective barrier while protecting against environmental aggressors and pollution.
Jackfir The Classic Shave Cream
Say goodbye to razor burn with this soothing, protective shave cream. Formulated with Aloe and Cucumber Extracts, and panthenol to soften the hair and ensure natural moisture is locked into the skin before and after shaving, while Bisabolol calms and soothes irritated skin.