What are Annatto Seeds?
If you’ve ever seen an annatto seed before, you probably remember that deep, rich, orangy-red color that is so unique to these tiny seeds. While some seeds are rounded into balls or oblong shapes, annatto seeds have a very organic, rough shape to them.
Annatto seeds come from the tropical achiote tree (Bixa orellana). There are couple key components of Annatto seeds that give them their unique color.
Bixin and Norbixin are carotenoids that give the seeds their natural golden color. Annatto Seeds also contain tocotrienols, a potent for of Vitamin E. Between those compounds, Annatto Seeds pack a punch of about 100x more beta-carotene than carrots!
Ancestrally, Annatto seeds were used by cultures indigenous to central and South America as a natural pigment for face and skin makeup, and as a natural protective layer against the sun.
How does Annatto Seed give you a daytime glow?
Do Annatto Seeds really give you a daytime glow?
The short answer is: yes!
Now let’s talk about how.
The first, and more obvious way that Annatto Seeds give your skin a natural, healthy glow is because of the natural color. When infused into our Hera Tallow Balm, the Annatto Seeds give off a perfectly sun-kissed tint.
The second way that Annatto seeds provide that daytime glow is through the brightening effects of the carotenoids. These powerful antioxidants are known for revitalizing the complexion of our skin, soothing out any hyperpigmentation that might be going on, and provide that juicy, dewy look.
What are the skin benefits of Annatto Seed oil?
When it comes to skin benefits, these tiny burnt orange seeds pack a punch.
These seeds are anti-inflammatory, meaning that they sooth inflammation and provide a calming effect to the skin. The antioxidants also work to prevent oxidative damage on the skin and provide protection to the skin barrier (or even help to repair your skin barrier).
So whether you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, sun damage, or a depleted skin barrier from years of neglect, Annatto Seeds are stepping into the rescue!
With all these benefits, it’s easy to see why Annatto seeds should be a daytime skincare essential (they sure have for me!).
How to use Annatto-infused products in your routine?
The easiest way to incorporate Annatto Seeds into your daily routine is through an infused product (like our Hera Tallow Balm). We infuse the Annatto seeds into Tallow and Jojoba oil so that some of that great, luscious pigmentation transfers over, leaving our balm with that perfectly sun-kissed tint.
We love to apply our tallow face balm first thing in the morning, especially in the summer. That way your skin stays protect, moisturized, and glowy all day long.
Is Annatto seed oil safe for sensitive skin?
Yes! Annatto seeds contain anti-inflammatory properties that help to soothe sensitive and acne-prone skin. They are generally considered safe for moist skin types, though we do always recommend patch testing first on a small part of your skin.
Does Annatto stain the skin?
No! It’s the best of both worlds, you get that natural golden glow without staining your skin or needing to “remove” makeup at the end of the day. The Annatto seed infusion will simply integrate into your skin where it can get to work with its powerful antioxidants.
Can I use Annatto seed as a natural makeup?
Yes, though it often requires a more concentration infusion or oil if you are looking for that deep red lipstick color!