If you’re looking for a natural and non-abrasive remedy for hyperpigmentation, then look no further than carrot seed oil.
Derived from the seeds of wild carrots – different from the carrots we eat – carrot seed oil has a variety of compounds that nourish the skin while supporting skin renewal.
However, before you reach for any old carrot seed oil, you should know that there are two types.
Each has its pros and cons, so in this article we’re going to look at:
- why carrot seed oil can help brighten uneven skin tone.
- the benefits of each type of carrot seed oil.
- ideas for how to use carrot seed oil for hyperpigmentation.
Note: this post contains some affiliate links and I earn a commission (at no additional cost to you) if you use them to make a purchase.
IS CARROT SEED OIL GOOD FOR HYPERPIGMENTATION?
There are two kinds of carrot seed oils: a cold pressed carrier oil and a steam distilled essential oil. The former contains beta carotene while the latter contains carotol. Both of these compounds can help to even out skin tone, making carrot seed oil a noteworthy remedy for hyperpigmentation.
Now, let’s explore these two oils in more detail so that you understand what they each have to offer.
Here’s what you should know about cold pressed carrot seed oil:
- A carrier oil in the same way that jojoba or rosehip are carrier oils. Therefore it can be used undiluted.
- Has a yellow-orange in color (occasionally with a green undertone) and earthy scent.
- A natural source of beta carotene which is converted to preformed vitamin A (aka retinol). So, due to its beta carotene content, carrot seed carrier oil may give you retinol-like results without the irritation that comes with retinoids (a big win if you have sensitive skin). NOTE: there is also macerated carrot oil, made from edible carrots. It most likely has more beta carotene, but it’s not as widely available as carrot seed carrier oil.
- One study showed a significant reduction in melasma-related hyperpigmentation when beta carotene lotion was used for 24 weeks (source).
- Rich in fatty acids like oleic acid which makes up 82% of its fatty acid composition. In addition this oil is a natural source of antioxidants like vitamin E.
As for steam distilled carrot seed oil, here’s what you should know:
- It’s an essential oil which means it must be diluted before use.
- Has a clear color with an earthy, musky fragrance.
- High in a powerful antioxidant and anti-fungal called carotol. In fact, there’s approximately twice as much carotol in the essential compared to the carrier oil (66.78% vs 30.55%).
- Contains other antioxidants like daucene, beta-bisabolene and daucol. Since oxidative stress plays a role in the development of hyperpigmentation, these antioxidants may further help to brighten skin (source).
HOW TO USE CARROT SEED OIL FOR UNEVEN SKIN TONE
1. Make A Brightening Oil with Carrot Seed Essential Oil
Here’s a simple facial oil that you can make to even out your skin tone.
- 2 Tbsp Kosmea rosehip oil – get it here
- 6 drops carrot seed essential oil – use this
- 3 drops frankincense frereana essential oil – use this
- 1 oz glass bottle – use this
When you make this recipe you will benefit from rosehip’s radiance-enhancing effects – thanks to beta carotene – as well as its vitamin E and essential fatty acids.
As for frankincense oil, it supports cell turnover and as such, is a good addition to any blend that is intended to balance skin tone (source).
2. Make A Face Oil with Cold Pressed Carrot Seed Oil
If you’d prefer to skip essential oils altogether, then use this nourishing blend instead.
It’s made with oils that all contain beta-carotene, anti-inflammatory essential fatty acids and vitamin E. Basically everything you need to nourish, soothe and rebalance your skin tone!
- 2 tsp cold press carrot seed carrier oil – get it here
- 2 tsp rosehip oil
- 2 tsp plum oil – get it here
- 1 oz glass bottle
One thing to note with all of these recipes is that it’s best to use rosehip oil derived from the entire rosehip (seed and outer flesh).
The outer flesh can have up to five times more beta carotene than the seed. The rosehip oil linked in the recipes fits these criteria.
FAQS ABOUT CARROT SEED OIL FOR DARK SPOTS
How long does it take for carrot oil to lighten dark spots?
Unfortunately, there are no studies that show how long it takes for carrot seed oil to fade dark spots.
That said, there is anecdotal evidence suggesting that you could notice a difference within a few weeks. But in some other cases it could take months.
CONCLUSION
While carrot seed oil is a natural way to address hyperpigmentation, it is not as potent as prescription treatments.
So, it’s important to be patient while making sure to use it consistently.
Practically speaking, the changes you see will be influenced by:
- consistency of use
- the severity of the hyperpigmentation/dark spots.
- the quality of the oils. Always purchase from reputable brands to avoid wasting your money – and ruining your skin – with adulterated oils.
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