ANNATTO SEED

ANNATTO SEED: Radiant Skin & Natural Protection

BOTANICAL ACTIVE | ANTIOXYDANT & SKIN GLOW BOOSTER

What is annatto seed ?

Annatto (Bixa orellana), also known as “urucum”, is a shrub native to South America. Its red seeds have been used for centuries by Indigenous peoples to protect the skin from the sun and enhance the complexion.

These small seeds are rich in natural beta-carotene (provitamin A), tocotrienols (rare forms of vitamin E), and trace minerals. Today, they are known for their antioxidant, protective, and beautifying properties—especially beneficial for dull, stressed, or tired-looking skin seeking a natural healthy glow.

Where does annatto seed come from ?

Traditionally grown in the Amazon, annatto is harvested ethically and sustainably. The seeds are hand-extracted from the fruit capsules, then dried and processed (into powder or oil) using gentle methods that preserve the integrity of their active compounds.

At MiYé, this botanical ingredient is valued for its ability to enhance the skin both inside and out.

Properties and active compounds

Annatto seed is a true concentrate of antioxidant pigments and glow-enhancing nutrients:

• Natural healthy glow: thanks to its high content of bixins and norbixins (carotenoids), it promotes an even skin tone and imparts a subtle radiance.

• Antioxidant action: helps neutralize free radicals and protects the skin from environmental aggressors (UV rays, pollution).

• Vitamin A precursor: supports cell regeneration, essential for smooth, soft, and strengthened skin.

• Natural photoprotective effect (non-filtering): traditionally used as a “plant-based screen” against sun exposure.

• Soothing and repairing: ideal for sensitive or inflammation-prone skin.

What are the benefits of annatto seed ?

Annatto seed is a precious ally in any natural skin-enhancing routine:

• Brightens dull and tired-looking skin.

• Prevents premature skin aging.

• Promotes a luminous, even complexion without makeup.

• Supports skin exposed to sun, stress, or toxins.

• Contributes to skin beauty from the inside when consumed (as a dietary supplement).

How to use or consume annatto seed ?

It can be:

• Applied topically (beauty oils, glow-boosting serums, regenerative balms).

• Incorporated into dietary supplements rich in carotenoids to enhance skin from within.

• Used as powder or infused oil in natural sun care or glow-enhancing products.

Any side effects ?

Annatto seed is generally well-tolerated in traditional and cosmetic uses. A few things to note:

• Temporary staining: the highly pigmented powder or oil may slightly stain clothing when used pure.

• No photosensitivity: unlike some plant extracts, annatto does not cause photosensitivity.

• Minimal interactions: no major side effects have been reported at typical usage levels.

Sources

Annatto seed has a long-standing history in medicinal and ritual use. It is now being studied for its antioxidant, protective, and beautifying effects on the skin, particularly in natural formulations designed to boost radiance, prevent imbalances linked to environment or hormonal cycles, and strengthen the skin barrier.

• Healthline – Annatto: Uses, Benefits, and Side Effects
  Natural pigments (bixin), antioxidant, glow-boosting, culinary and cosmetic applications.
  ➤ https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/annatto

• Sadhev – What Are Annatto Seeds?
  Skin-brightening, UV protection, moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties, DIY applications.

• Holly Bynoe – Roucou, powerful Indigenous skin medicine
  Powerful antioxidant, cosmetic pigmentation, natural sun protection, anti-aging action.