Ingredients 101: Cranberry Seed Oil

Natural or Synthetic: Natural

Origin: Cranberry seed oil is extracted from the seeds of the superfruit. In most cases, the ingredient is extracted via the cold pressing method

Location: Most of the world's cranberries are cultivated in North America (Massachusetts, New Jersey, Oregon, Washington, Wisconsin), as well as parts of British Columbia and Quebec

Beauty Benefits: Cranberry seed oil makes for an amazing skincare ingredient as it penetrates the skin easily, is deeply moisturising and is packed with antioxidants, helping it protect the skin from free radical damage (which accelerates skin ageing).

It is rich in vitamin E and vitamin A and is also high in phytosterols and phospholipids. Cranberry seed oil also contains a unique balance of omega 3, 6 and 9 essential fatty acids. These amazing properties enable cranberry seed oil to treat and sooth irritated skin (it is great for those with eczema and psoriasis) and acne. For the hair lovers out there, this wonder ingredient also helps to heal, strengthen and moisturise the hair and scalp.

Warnings: Cranberry seed oil is considered safe to use topically

Found in: Decléor Intense Nutrition Comforting Cocoon Cream 50ml (£44.50 decleor.co.uk / $65.00 decleorusa.com). This thick and ultra nourishing face cream is the perfect partner for those with dry skin. In addition to being packed with cranberry seed oil, the Intense Nutrition Cream contains avocado oil, argan oil and phytosqualane. These hero ingredients work together to deeply moisturise the skin, strengthen its protective barrier and improve the overall quality of the skin.

Lately my skin has been going through a nasty dry spell (thanks winter!) and I've been experiencing flakiness. However, since using the Intense Nutrition Comforting Cocoon Cream for over a week my skin has returned to normal.