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CARYA OVATA BARK EXTRACT.

Valuable CAS 91723-46-5 / SKIN CONDITIONING

A high-performance botanical extract derived from Shagbark Hickory that functions as both a natural antimicrobial stabilizer and a potent antioxidant. It is utilized in precision skincare to provide broad-spectrum protection against microbial growth while simultaneously refining skin texture through its rich tannin content.

Natural Preservative Antioxidant Skin Conditioning Agent Astringent Antimicrobial

Science

The extract operates via a dual-action pathway: its high concentration of polyphenols and tannins disrupts microbial cell membranes to inhibit bacterial and fungal growth, while its antioxidant molecules neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS) through hydrogen atom transfer. Furthermore, its astringent properties induce mild cross-linking of surface proteins, which helps to temporarily smooth the skin's micro-relief and calm minor inflammatory responses.


Research

Medium confidence
Effective range 0.5–2%
Optimal

1%

Key findings

  1. 01 Supplier Preservative Efficacy Testing (PET) demonstrated broad-spectrum activity against Gram-positive/negative bacteria, yeast, and mold at concentrations between 0.5-2%.
  2. 02 Phytochemical analysis confirmed significant free radical scavenging and antioxidant capacity in-vitro at a 1.0% concentration due to high polyphenol density.

Transparency

Commonly dusted
Min. effective
0.5%
Red flag below
0.1%

Because it is often marketed as a 'natural preservative booster,' many formulations include it at trace levels (<0.1%) for label claims. However, clinical antimicrobial and antioxidant activity require a minimum threshold of 0.5%.


The Formula

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 3 – 9
0 7 14

Stability

Exhibits robust thermal stability and remains effective across a wide pH gradient. It is typically processed as an aqueous extract.

Synergies

  • Chelating agents
  • Organic acids
  • Complementary antioxidants like Vitamin E

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizing agents
  • Formulations with high protein concentrations (may cause tannin-induced precipitation)

Safety

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Max tested
2%
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Low

Recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by the FDA for food use. While not yet formally reviewed by the CIR for topical application, it is widely accepted in clean beauty standards with no known systemic toxicity.


Your Skin

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

Our Assessment

Valuable

An excellent multi-tasking botanical that serves as a clean-label preservative alternative while providing measurable antioxidant and skin-refining benefits.


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