fragrancesFinely ground black pepper, 60-mesh, steam-treated

Black Pepper

Black Pepper

Piperine warmth, aromatic complexity, synergizes with cumin

INCI Name

Black Pepper

Functions

1 Roles

Sustainability

8/10

Category

fragrances

What It Does

Black Pepper in cosmetic formulations is derived from the dried, ground berries of Piper nigrum and is valued primarily for its distinctive warm, spicy, woody aromatic profile contributed by its volatile oil constituents including beta-caryophyllene, limonene, and pinene. The finely ground 60-mesh, steam-treated form ensures microbial safety and consistent particle size, making it suitable for incorporation into scrubs, masks, and powder-based products. Formulators select it for its ability to add sensory warmth and olfactory complexity to spice-forward blends, and its active alkaloid piperine is also studied for potential skin-stimulating and circulation-enhancing properties.

Enhances formula performance
Contributes to product quality
Supports formulation goals
Improves user experience

Technical Properties

Ionic Charge

nonionic

Molecular charge type

Viscosity Effect

neutral

Impact on formula thickness

Foaming Ability

none

Lather generation

Ingredient Compatibility

Works Well With

carrier oils and lipid emollientsother botanical powders and spice extractsfragrance compoundswaxes and buttersoil-based formulations

Avoid Combining

strong oxidizing agentshigh-pH alkaline systemsaqueous systems where dispersion stability is requiredlight-colored or white formulations sensitive to discoloration
Compatibility analysis powered by OpenMix — open-source formulation science

Sustainability Profile

Sustainability Score

8/10

Biodegradability

readily biodegradable

Source

plant-derived

Feedstock

Dried berries of Piper nigrum, a climbing vine native to South and Southeast Asia, primarily cultivated in India, Vietnam, and Indonesia

Quick Reference

Full INCI Name
Black Pepper
Common Name
Black Pepper
Category
fragrances

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