Elettaria Cardamomum (cardamom) extract or oil is derived from cardamom seeds and used in skincare primarily as a fragrance and aromatic agent, with some mild antioxidant and antimicrobial properties attributed to its volatile compounds. It is generally considered a non-active, sensory or supporting ingredient in formulations.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Contact dermatitis / skin irritation | Uncommon | Mild irritation may occur, particularly in sensitive skin or at higher concentrations. |
Allergic contact sensitization | Rare | Essential oil components such as terpenes can act as allergens in predisposed individuals. |
Photosensitivity | Very rare | Rarely reported; cardamom is not a strong phototoxic agent compared to citrus oils. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.
Peer-reviewed papers on this ingredient, via PubMed.