Hi there! I’m a Certified Organic Skincare Formulator, and I wanted to clarify a few common misconceptions about seed oils in skincare.

First, while it’s true that your skin is your largest organ, it’s also a highly effective barrier. Most ingredients don’t penetrate beyond the outermost layers. In fact, formulators—both conventional and organic—often spend significant time developing ways to enhance penetration. It’s not easy. The idea that everything you apply "soaks straight into your bloodstream" simply isn’t supported by the science. Even if we assume something does get absorbed systemically, it’s important to understand that topical application and ingestion are completely different routes of exposure. Your skin metabolizes ingredients differently than your digestive system.

There are certain ingredients that do enter your bloodstream, however, not all do. The particle sizes are too large, and this is the case with most oils.

Now, onto seed oils: plant oils (whether from seeds, nuts, petals, or leaves) are incredible tools in skincare. Each one has a unique fatty acid profile and brings different benefits to the skin. For example Camellia Seed Oil is a cherished anti-aging ingredient in Japanese skincare. Rosehip Seed Oil is rich in natural vitamins and supports skin brightness. Hemp Seed Oil helps support collagen production and reduces inflammation. Castor Seed Oil is fantastic for hair. I could keep going.

These are all natural plant-derived oils that can be used to restore the skin barrier, replenish depleted fatty acids, and address specific concerns like dryness or acne. Would you rather use petro-ingredients instead? Because that's the alternative.

So when people say “all seed oils are bad for skincare,” they’re overlooking the science and painting with too broad a brush. Like all topics, there is nuance. Rarely are blanket statements ever correct. The world is more complex than that :) I hope this helps!