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ACACIA CATECHU WOOD EXTRACT.

Questionable CAS 8001-76-1 / ANTIOXIDANT

A potent botanical extract derived from the heartwood of Acacia catechu, rich in catechins and epicatechins that deliver powerful antioxidant, astringent, and melanin-inhibiting properties. This traditional Ayurvedic ingredient offers notable skin brightening effects alongside natural UV protection capabilities. Its high tannin content provides exceptional pore-tightening benefits while supporting wound healing through protein-precipitating astringent actions.

antioxidant skin brightening astringent anti-inflammatory UV protection booster

Science

Functions through multiple pathways: inhibits tyrosinase enzyme to reduce melanin production, blocks NF-kB inflammatory cascades to suppress cytokines like TNF-α and IL-10, and provides potent antioxidant protection via catechins (up to 66.9% concentration) that neutralize free radicals and prevent cellular damage.


Research

Medium confidence
Effective range ≤120%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Tyrosinase inhibition study showing 61.58% melanin suppression at 120 mg/ml concentration
  2. 02 SPF enhancement demonstration achieving SPF 24 independently and SPF 30 when combined with UV filters
  3. 03 12-week anti-inflammatory safety study (oral) confirming systemic tolerability without adverse effects

Transparency

Not commonly dusted

Limited commercial adoption due to CIR data insufficiency concerns, reducing likelihood of token usage in mainstream formulations


The Formula

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 4 – 6
0 7 14

Stability

Maintains stability in slightly acidic to neutral pH ranges; alkaline conditions cause catechin oxidation resulting in formulation browning

Synergies

  • Physical UV filters
  • Chemical sunscreens
  • Other antioxidants

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizing agents
  • Iron salts
  • Gelatin
  • Alkaloids

Safety

CIR Status
Insufficient data
Sensitization risk Unknown

CIR Expert Panel (1998, 2005) determined insufficient data for cosmetic safety assessment, specifically lacking sensitization, irritation, and UV absorption studies


Your Skin

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Questionable

Promising botanical with strong efficacy data but regulatory safety gaps limit confident recommendation for precision skincare applications.


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