Science
Mechanism of Action
This ingredient revitalizes skin by robustly boosting collagen gene expression, specifically increasing COL16A1, COL3A1, and COL6A1, which contributes to greater dermal thickness and improved elasticity. It also activates the intrinsic longevity pathway, involving the signaling kinase AMPK and transcription factor FOXO1, a key mechanism regulating various anti-aging processes and enhancing collagen synthesis. Furthermore, it contains beneficial flavonoid-glucuronides, such as luteolin- and apigenin-glucuronide, which provide strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory protection. The water also enhances skin hydration and is believed to interact with small leucine-rich proteoglycans (SLRPs), like biglycan and decorin, to stabilize collagen fibrils and modulate skin repair pathways.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Medium confidenceN/A
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
This ingredient is in the form of a flower/leaf/stem water, not a dry powder or extract, and therefore does not pose a risk of dusting during handling or formulation.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
Specific optimal pH range data for the stability of this flower/leaf/stem water in cosmetic formulations is not available. However, the source plant, Moldavian dragonhead, naturally thrives in slightly acidic to neutral soil conditions (pH 5.5-7.0). The extract contains phenolic compounds prone to oxidation, suggesting that careful processing and formulation strategies are necessary to preserve its beneficial compounds and antioxidant activity.
Safety
Safety Profile
No direct Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) or Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) assessments have been conducted for this specific cosmetic ingredient (flower/leaf/stem water). However, oral supplementation with 200 mg of Moldavian dragonhead dry extract has been well-tolerated in human studies, with no reported adverse reactions. Its inclusion in the US Old Dietary Ingredient List and various European plant-positive lists signifies general acceptance for dietary use, indicating a favorable overall safety profile.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
DRACOCEPHALUM MOLDAVICA FLOWER/LEAF/STEM WATER is a valuable botanical ingredient, demonstrating significant potential to boost skin hydration, elasticity, and collagen synthesis, making it beneficial for comprehensive anti-aging and skin health formulations.
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References
Sources