Science
Mechanism of Action
This extract leverages its high content of polyphenolic compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, to deliver comprehensive skin benefits. Its primary mechanism involves potent antioxidant activity, effectively neutralizing reactive oxygen species (ROS) to prevent cellular damage, premature aging, and environmentally induced hyperpigmentation. Furthermore, it inhibits tyrosinase activity to reduce melanin production, contributes to natural UV protection, and exhibits notable anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, helping to soothe and protect the skin barrier. Traditionally, it is also recognized for its astringent and wound-healing characteristics, promoting overall skin conditioning.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Medium confidenceN/A
Key findings
- 01 Demonstrated natural sun protecting activity with an SPF ranging from 3.42 to 3.77, alongside anti-hyperpigmentation potential.
- 02 Exhibited significant antioxidant activity through effective scavenging of DPPH radicals.
- 03 Showed strong antioxidant capacity (ethanolic extract), with an IC50 of 266.6 ± 0.828 µg/mL.
- 04 Exhibited robust DPPH free radical scavenging activity (antioxidant), with IC50 values of 7.85 µg/mL for ethanolic extract and 39.51 µg/mL for acetone extract.
- 05 Reduced edema paw inflammation by 66.67% to 77.78% (aqueous extract), indicating significant anti-inflammatory activity.
- 06 Displayed cytotoxicity against human melanoma cells A375 (IC50 57.80–199.01 µg/mL), yet did not significantly impair the growth of non-cancerous human keratinocytes HaCaT, suggesting selective action and low toxicity to healthy skin cells.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
The abundant polyphenolic compounds within the extract are generally susceptible to degradation by high pH and light exposure. While a precise optimal pH range for overall stability is not explicitly defined, studies on tyrosinase inhibition were conducted effectively at pH 6.8, and alpha-glucosidase inhibition at pH 7.5, suggesting good functional stability within slightly acidic to neutral conditions.
Safety
Safety Profile
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) currently lists 'Cistus Ladaniferus Leaf/Stem Extract' (sharing a CAS number with twig extract) as having 'No Reported Uses' in FDA's Voluntary Cosmetics Reporting Program. This indicates no immediate safety concerns requiring further review, provided future use remains minimal. No specific GHS classification or in vivo oral/dermal/inhalation toxicity data has been determined for the twig extract. However, in vitro assessments suggest low cytotoxicity to normal skin cells, as it did not significantly impair non-cancerous human keratinocytes and only slightly affected skin fibroblast viability.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Cistus Ladaniferus Twig Extract is a valuable botanical ingredient, offering potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and natural protective benefits with promising anti-hyperpigmentation activity for all skin types.
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