Alpha Bisabolol for acne and skin in cosmetics and dermatology

Bisabolol is an active ingredient with anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties. In cosmetics, it is used to relieve skin inflammation and in dermatology as an ingredient to alleviate acne symptoms and improve the healing of skin tissue, as well as to relieve discomfort caused by rosacea.

Bisabolol, what is it?

It is a molecule derived from natural plants and is known by several names such as “alpha bisabolol 1,” “levomenol,” “alpha bisabolol” or simply chamomile essential oil.

Its presence in the flowers of several plants makes it necessary to extract and concentrate it to enhance its effects. It can be extracted to obtain the properties of Matricaria in its two species, Chamomilla and Recutita L. Both plants are related to chamazulene and beneficial effects for the skin.

Properties and benefits

This active ingredient, although originally derived from chamomile, is also currently obtained from matricaria recuita. The bisabolol has properties to:
Bisabolol properties and benefits

  • Reduce epidermal inflammation.
  • Eliminate irritation.
  • Accelerate skin regeneration.
  • Eliminate microbial infection.
  • Increase the absorption of other active ingredients.
  • CAS number: CAS 15352-77-9.

Alpha bisabolol (alpha)

Alpha or alpha bisabolol chemical structureJust like the one mentioned above, it can also be obtained from chamomile or the Candeia tree. Alpha bisabolol provides the same properties and benefits for health, meaning it is used to treat skin problems like eczema, dermatitis, and it is also indicated to relieve rosacea symptoms.

In many cases, it is included as an ingredient or active principle in acne creams. Its presence reduces the inflammation typical of pimples and blackheads caused by hormonal disorders and those that appear during puberty. Alpha bisabolol has soothing properties, ideal when there are large, pus-filled pimples on the face.

The difference between alpha bisabolol and beta-bisabolol lies in the position of the tertiary alcohol in its chemical structure. But what’s interesting for people who use it is that it works very similarly, so it can be used in cosmetics and dermatology for the cases we’ve mentioned.

Does it work for acne?

Bisabolol for acneIt is present in many lotions and creams designed to eliminate pimples. While it is not a skin lightener or a product specifically for this condition, it does help in the treatment of moderate to severe acne.

The mechanism of action of bisabolol for acne works as an adjunct in the treatment of pimples, meaning it helps reduce inflammation and relieves itching, pain, and burning sensations.

Additionally, because of its antimicrobial properties, it cleanses and disinfects pus-filled pimples, something ideal in many cases.

Uses in cosmetics

As we’ve already mentioned, it can be used to treat the skin or improve its appearance, so bisabolol in cosmetics is an active ingredient commonly found in:

  • Moisturizing creams.
  • Eye makeup remover.
  • Facial toner.
  • Micellar water.
  • Serum for dry skin removal.

Its presence in these products is to relieve itching or discomfort associated with makeup use, as well as to improve the absorption of the best moisturizing creams.

It is also included as an active principle in other types of creams to soothe pain caused by sunburns, such as the after-sun facial, and even in other moisturizing and anti-wrinkle products like the hydroface cream. It is also an essential part of cosmetics for men’s skin care and grooming, like shaving gel or foam.

Dermatology

When added as an active ingredient in medicine, that is, alpha bisabolol in dermatology helps to:
Uses of bisabolol in dermatology and cosmetics

  • Reduce skin tissue inflammation.
  • Soothe irritation.
  • Relieve itching.
  • Disinfect the skin.

In this category, it is also present as an ingredient in creams and lotions, as well as in oil form. Since it is anti-inflammatory, it is included in many acne creams because, in addition to these properties, it also alleviates discomfort related to large pus-filled pimples and enhances the absorption of other skin lightening acids. This makes it an ingredient in Biretix gel duo and is recommended by dermatologists to alleviate some side effects of adapalene and tretinoin 0.025 (enhancing its action), essential components in many acne treatment regimens, as indicated in its technical sheet.

Other uses and applications

In addition to its mentioned dermatology and cosmetic uses, it is also an ingredient in certain products used to eliminate vaginal infections.

Because it reduces inflammation, is anti-inflammatory, and at the same time soothing with antimicrobial effects, bisabolol in suppositories helps in the treatment of vaginitis and cervico-vaginal mucosal infections.

It accelerates the recovery of internal reproductive system tissues by restoring pH, hydrating, and allowing the internal tissues of women to regain hydration.