Lemongrass Seed Oil (Cymbopogon citratus) is a botanical extract that brings a range of benefits to skincare, especially for those looking to balance, brighten, and purify the skin. It's different from lemongrass essential oil (usually steam-distilled from the grass)—lemongrass seed oil is pressed from the seeds and typically has a slightly richer, more nourishing profile with unique fatty acids and antioxidants.

What is Lemongrass Seed Oil?

Lemongrass seed oil’s scent is subtler than the essential oil. It’s fresh, herbaceous and citrusy with earthy undertones. Unlike the essential oil, which is high in citral and limonene, the seed oil is richer in fatty acids, phytosterols, and lipid-soluble antioxidants. This makes it more nourishing and less volatile, offering a different set of skin benefits.

How is Lemongrass Seed Oil used in skincare?

Lemongrass seed oil is typically found in:

• Facial oils and serums (especially for oily or acne-prone skin)
• Toners and astringents
• Clarifying masks
• Lightweight moisturizers
• Scalp and body oils

It’s used in low concentrations or blended with carrier oils to avoid sensitivity (especially for facial applications).

What are the benefits of Lemongrass Seed Oil for your complexion and skin microbiome?

Lemongrass seed oil has antimicrobial activity that helps control overgrowths of harmful bacteria or fungi without fully disrupting the skin’s beneficial flora. However, like any potent botanical, it should be balanced with skin-friendly lipids or prebiotics to avoid stripping the skin. Here’s why lemongrass seed oil is beneficial to your skin health:

• Selective Antimicrobial Action: Lemongrass seed oil has mild antibacterial and antifungal properties—enough to suppress problematic microbes (like Cutibacterium acnes or Malassezia) without completely wiping out the beneficial flora. It helps rebalance dysbiosis (when harmful microbes outnumber good ones). Unlike synthetic antimicrobials or alcohol-based products, it doesn’t create a sterile environment, which is key for microbiome resilience.
• Antibacterial & Antifungal: Lemongrass seed oil helps combat acne-causing bacteria like Propionibacterium acnes, making it ideal for blemish-prone skin. It also fights fungal overgrowths that can contribute to irritation or breakouts.
• Barrier-Nourishing Fatty Acids: The oil is rich in linoleic acid and phytosterols, which support the skin’s lipid barrier (your microbiome’s physical home), reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and create a healthy, hydrated environment where beneficial microbes thrive.
• Astringent & Pore-Refining: Thanks to its natural astringency, lemongrass seed oil can help tighten pores, reduce excess oil, and create a smoother, more refined texture.
• Anti-Inflammatory: It calms redness and puffiness, especially helpful in reactive or acne-prone skin. The soothing compounds (like citral and limonene) ease inflammation without clogging pores. An inflamed environment is hostile to microbial diversity. Lemongrass seed oil helps calm irritation, making it easier for the commensal (friendly) microbes to flourish.
• Rich in Antioxidants: The seed oil contains antioxidants that neutralize free radicals, which can slow signs of aging and protect skin from environmental damage.
• Supports Circulation & Detoxification: Its stimulating effect on the skin can boost microcirculation, promoting a fresh, revitalized glow. This is great for dull or tired-looking complexions.

Lemongrass seed oil is microbiome-friendly when used properly. It doesn’t sterilize the skin like harsher agents and actively supports barrier health and microbial balance, making it an efficacious botanical choice for those looking to clarify and nourish without compromising their skin ecosystem.