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CAREX HUMILLIS ROOT EXTRACT.

Valuable / SKIN CONDITIONING

A botanical powerhouse derived from Dwarf Sedge, this root extract is a multifunctional skin conditioner that excels in calming irritation and restoring hydration. Rich in specialized polyphenols and polysaccharides, it offers a sophisticated approach to environmental protection and barrier reinforcement.

Soothing Humectant Antioxidant Skin Brightening Anti-inflammatory

Science

This extract operates through a dual-action pathway: first, its high concentration of (+)-α-viniferin (an oligomeric stilbene) suppresses inflammatory markers like COX-2 and iNOS more efficiently than standard resveratrol. Simultaneously, its polysaccharide content creates a moisture-locking matrix on the skin surface while polyphenolic compounds inhibit tyrosinase activity to modulate melanin production.


Research

High confidence
Effective range 1–5%
Optimal

2%

Key findings

  1. 01 Clinical testing at a 2% concentration demonstrated a 48.6% increase in skin moisture within one hour, with sustained hydration (34.2%) lasting 24 hours.
  2. 02 In vitro data reveals that its key constituent, (+)-α-viniferin, possesses an IC50 of 7 µM for COX-2 inhibition, making it approximately 3 to 4 times more potent than resveratrol in mitigating inflammatory responses.
  3. 03 A 4-week study on 20 subjects showed significant visible reduction in skin desquamation, roughness, and objective dryness.

Transparency

Commonly dusted
Min. effective
1%
Red flag below
0.1%

Because it is often marketed for its exotic botanical origin in 'calming' lines, it is frequently used at trace levels (under 0.1%) where its moisture-retention and anti-inflammatory properties are negligible. Effective results require a concentration of at least 1-2%.


The Formula

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 4.5 – 7
0 7 14

Stability

Highly stable in aqueous solutions and emulsions, though its polyphenol content suggests sensitivity to extreme heat and prolonged UV exposure; amber packaging is recommended.

Synergies

  • Hyaluronic Acid
  • Resveratrol
  • Niacinamide
  • Ceramides

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizers

Safety

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Low

While not yet formally reviewed by the CIR, it has an established safety profile through extensive use in the Korean dermo-cosmetic market with no reported adverse irritancy.


Your Skin

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

Our Assessment

Valuable

An exceptional botanical for sensitive and dehydrated skin that outperforms traditional antioxidants in inflammatory control when formulated at active concentrations.


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