Exfoliants

Sesamum Indicum Seed

INCI: SESAMUM INDICUM SEED

Reviewed by Rosie · Last updated 14 Aug 2026

Also known as: Sesamum Indicum Seed

A plant-derived exfoliant derived from sesame seeds

Best For Skin Types

All, Oily, Combination, Mature

Addresses

Dullness, Uneven texture, Surface buildup

Usage Frequency

1-2 times per week

What Is Sesamum Indicum Seed?

Sesamum indicum seed is the ground seed material from the sesame plant (Sesamum indicum L.). In skincare, it functions primarily as a physical exfoliant, meaning it works through mechanical action to remove dead skin cells and surface debris from the skin.

Sesame seeds contain bioactive compounds including sesamol and sesamolin, which have been studied for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. When used in skincare products, the seed material itself provides gentle abrasive action suitable for manual exfoliation.

Benefits for Your Skin

How It Works

Sesamum indicum seed works as a physical exfoliant through its granular texture. When massaged gently onto damp skin, the particles provide mild abrasive friction that loosens and removes the outermost layer of dead skin cells, helping to refine skin texture and promote cell turnover.

Beyond the mechanical action, research suggests that bioactive compounds present in sesame seeds—particularly sesamol and sesamolin—may offer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. These compounds have shown activity against oxidative stress in laboratory studies, though more research is needed to establish their efficacy when applied topically in cosmetic concentrations.

Clinical Evidence & References

Safety assessments have confirmed that sesame seed ingredients are neither skin irritants, sensitizers, nor allergens at the concentrations used in cosmetics, making them suitable for most skin types.

Research into sesame seed bioactives shows promise for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity in controlled laboratory settings. However, evidence specifically demonstrating these benefits in topical skincare applications remains limited. The primary documented benefit of sesame seed in skincare products is its exfoliating function through physical action.

How to Use

Use sesamum indicum seed exfoliants 1-2 times per week on clean, damp skin. Apply with gentle, circular motions for 30-60 seconds, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Avoid over-exfoliation, which can compromise the skin barrier. Follow with a hydrating toner and moisturiser. These products are best suited to manual exfoliation rather than daily use.

Safety & Precautions

Sesamum indicum seed is well-tolerated and has been assessed as safe for cosmetic use. It is not a known irritant, sensitizer, or allergen at typical concentrations. Those with very sensitive or compromised skin barriers should patch-test first, as with any physical exfoliant.

Frequently Asked Questions

From the Clinic

Not sure what your skin actually needs?

Two minutes, a few questions, and we’ll point you at what matters — no guesswork.

Take the skin quiz

Part of a family

Sesamum Indicum Seed is a variant of Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Oil, the form you will most often see on an ingredients list.

Sesamum indicum (sesame) seed oil is a non-fragrant plant

Learn More About Skincare Ingredients

Explore our comprehensive ingredient glossary to understand what's in your products.

Browse All Ingredients

Authorised Stockist

Official UK retailer

Tracked Delivery

Free UK shipping over £50

5 Star Rating

Trusted by thousands

Expert Advice

Free consultations