Get a Free 5ml Mini Now Free 5ml Mini With Every Order of The Mantle

CHAMAECYPARIS OBTUSA LEAF OIL.

Valuable CAS 91745-97-0 / SKIN CONDITIONING, SKIN CONDITIONING - EMOLLIENT

Commonly known as Hinoki Cypress, this refined botanical oil offers a multi-target approach to skin health, combining potent anti-inflammatory properties with natural antimicrobial benefits. It is particularly valued in precision formulations for its ability to soothe reactive skin while simultaneously providing antioxidant protection against environmental stressors.

Anti-inflammatory Antioxidant Antimicrobial Skin Soothing Sebum Regulation

Science

This oil modulates skin cellular response by inhibiting the NF-κB inflammatory pathway and reducing the expression of pro-inflammatory enzymes like COX-2 and iNOS. Additionally, it provides photoprotection by downregulating Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs) that degrade collagen and regulates skin tone by repressing the MITF signaling pathway involved in melanin production.


Research

High confidence
Effective range 0.1–5%
Optimal

3%

Key findings

  1. 01 Clinical evaluation demonstrated that a 3% concentration significantly boosts hair growth markers, increasing IGF-1 expression by 426% and alkaline phosphatase activity by 48%.
  2. 02 In comparative acne trials, a fermented version of this extract outperformed tea tree oil, reducing inflammatory lesions by 65.3% and non-inflammatory lesions by 52.6% over an 8-week period.

Transparency

Commonly dusted
Min. effective
0.1%
Red flag below
0.05%

While often used at trace levels for its aromatic 'forest' scent (masking), therapeutic benefits for acne and scalp health require concentrations between 1% and 3%. Products containing less than 0.1% are likely utilizing it for marketing or fragrance purposes rather than physiological impact.


The Formula

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH 4.5 – 6
0 7 14

Stability

Highly lipophilic and sensitive to degradation. To maintain potency, it must be stored in light-protected, cool environments to prevent the oxidation of volatile terpenes like limonene.

Synergies

  • Lactobacillus ferments (enhanced anti-acne activity)
  • Tocopherol (stabilizes volatile components)
  • Soothing agents like Bisabolol

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizing agents
  • Strong acids/bases (catalyzes terpene degradation)

Safety

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Max tested
5%
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Moderate

Safe for topical use, though the presence of alpha-pinene and limonene necessitates airtight packaging to prevent oxidation, which increases the risk of skin sensitization.


Your Skin

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Valuable

A high-performance botanical oil that serves as a potent alternative to tea tree oil for acne and a scientifically backed ingredient for scalp health and inflammation control.


Related

Finding similar ingredients…