Watermelon Seed Oil
Watermelon Seed Oil, also known as Kalahari Oil or Ootanga Oil, is a lightweight, fast-absorbing oil cold-pressed from the seeds of the Citrullus lanatus fruit. This oil is pale yellow with a mild, nutty aroma and is rich in essential fatty acids—particularly linoleic acid (omega-6) and oleic acid (omega-9)—as well as antioxidants, phytosterols, and vitamins A, B, and E. Known for its nourishing, non-comedogenic, and balancing properties, Watermelon Seed Oil is widely used in skincare, haircare, baby care, and massage products. It is ideal for all skin types, especially oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin due to its ability to dissolve sebum and unclog pores while maintaining hydration.
Uses
Primary Uses
Cosmetics and Personal Care
- Used in facial serums and oils for its balancing, anti-inflammatory, and non-greasy texture
- Included in moisturizers and creams to hydrate and nourish skin without clogging pores
- Added to anti-aging products for antioxidant protection and skin elasticity support
- Applied in baby oils and diaper creams for gentle, soothing care on sensitive skin
- Used in sunscreens and after-sun treatments to calm and repair UV-exposed skin
- Incorporated in lip balms and glosses for smooth application and emollient action
- Used in hair oils, conditioners, and scalp treatments to strengthen hair and reduce flaking
- Blended into shaving oils and post-shave balms for moisturizing and irritation reduction
- Added to body oils and massage blends for its glide and skin-softening properties
Topical Applications
- Applied directly to the face as a light moisturizer or oil cleanser for acne-prone skin
- Blended into salves or balms for soothing irritated or inflamed areas
- Used in stretch mark and scar treatments for its regenerative qualities
Secondary Uses
Pharmaceutical and Nutraceutical Applications
- Used in formulations for dermatological creams and therapeutic skin preparations
- Occasionally included in dietary supplements for its omega fatty acids (where food grade is available)
Fragrance and Ambient Scenting
- Used as a neutral carrier oil in essential oil diffuser blends and natural perfumes
- Blended with aromatic compounds to create lightweight, fast-absorbing body oils
Industrial and Specialty Applications
- Used in premium soap making as a conditioning and cleansing agent
- Employed in cosmetic manufacturing as a carrier oil for actives and essential oils
- Applied in herbal skincare lines as a base for infusion and maceration of botanicals
Basic Identification Attributes
- Botanical Name: Citrullus lanatus
- Common/Trade Name: Watermelon Seed Oil / Kalahari Oil / Ootanga Oil
- INCI Name: Citrullus Lanatus (Watermelon) Seed Oil
- CAS Number: 90244-99-8
- HS Code: 1515.90
- Synonyms: Kalahari Melon Seed Oil, Watermelon Kernel Oil
Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Liquid vegetable oil
- Color & Odor: Pale yellow; light, nutty aroma
- Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in alcohols and fixed oils
- Refractive Index: 1.470 – 1.485
- Specific Gravity: 0.910 – 0.930
- Main Components: Linoleic acid, oleic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, tocopherols
Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification: Not classified as hazardous
- Toxicity: Non-toxic; suitable for cosmetic and personal care applications
- Exposure Limits: No specific limits; standard cosmetic use guidelines apply
- Allergen Information: Considered hypoallergenic; patch testing recommended for sensitive users
Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, dark place in tightly sealed containers
- Container Type: Amber glass, aluminum, or food-grade HDPE drums
- Shelf Life: 12 to 24 months depending on storage conditions
- Handling Precautions: Handle with clean, dry tools; avoid contamination
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Compliant with cosmetic and personal care regulations (INCI-listed)
- Produced in GMP-certified and ISO-compliant facilities
- Not classified as hazardous for transportation
Environmental & Health Impact
- Biodegradability: Biodegradable under normal environmental conditions
- Ecotoxicity: Low risk at typical cosmetic concentrations
- Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate
Safety Handling Precautions
- PPE Required: None under normal use; gloves recommended for industrial quantities
- Handling Guidelines: Avoid contamination and moisture contact
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Not volatile; inhalation unlikely
- Skin Contact: Safe; discontinue if irritation occurs
- Eye Contact: Rinse with clean water if accidentally introduced
- Ingestion: Food-grade oil is non-toxic; not intended for casual consumption unless certified
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Combustible at high temperatures
- Extinguishing Media: Dry chemical, CO₂, foam, or water spray
- Special Precautions: Use full protective equipment if handling large fires
- Hazardous Combustion Products: Carbon oxides and hydrocarbons