Gugulipid (a lipophilic ethyl acetate extract from C. mukul or C. wightii) and an alcoholic fraction of gugulipid as antisebum and/or antioxidant active in cosmetic skin care compositions and methods is disclosed. Gugulipid from C. mukul and its alcoholic fraction are capable of delivering dual benefit to the skin: controlling or preventing sebum secretion (oily skin conditions) and protecting the skin from free radical damage.