Science
Mechanism of Action
This extract functions as a comprehensive skin conditioner by fortifying the skin's natural barrier, thereby enhancing moisture retention and preventing dehydration. Its robust antioxidant capacity actively counters visible signs of aging induced by environmental stressors. It specifically targets hyperpigmentation by inhibiting tyrosinase and addresses skin laxity by preventing elastin degradation through elastase inhibition. Exhibiting retinol-like biological activity, it stimulates protein synthesis within skin fibroblasts and upregulates gene expression pathways analogous to retinoids (RARs, RXRs), leading to accelerated cell regeneration, improved skin elasticity, and a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles. Furthermore, it significantly boosts the synthesis of key collagen types (Collagen I, Collagen III, procollagen I) and safeguards vital skin proteins from glycation. For blemish-prone skin, it acts as a dermo-purifying agent by moderating inflammatory responses, curbing lipase activity, mitigating oxidative stress, and inhibiting the proliferation of Propionibacterium acnes.
Research
Clinical Evidence
High confidence0.02%
Key findings
- 01 At a 0.02% concentration in a cosmetic cream, Harungana madagascariensis extract demonstrated anti-aging improvements comparable to a 0.05% retinol cream over 28-56 days, enhancing wrinkles, ptosis, color homogeneity, smoothness, plumpness, firmness, elasticity, and superficial dermis density.
- 02 In vitro studies show concentrations between 0.001% and 0.01% effectively induce collagen synthesis in skin fibroblasts.
- 03 Antibacterial activity has been observed at Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations (MICs) ranging from 0.0064% to 0.1024%, with a 0.25-1.0% cold extract eliminating significant bacterial populations within 30-60 minutes.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
Clinical evidence supports significant efficacy at concentrations as low as 0.02% for anti-aging benefits and even lower (0.001-0.01%) for collagen synthesis in vitro. While a broad effective range is cited as 0.01-0.1%, formulators are expected to utilize concentrations within or around this range to achieve desired results. Products featuring this ingredient at concentrations significantly below 0.01% may lack substantial clinical impact.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
This extract, typically obtained through water extraction, can be effectively stabilized in cosmetic formulations with the addition of glycerin.
Safety
Safety Profile
Harungana madagascariensis extract is generally considered safe for topical use in cosmetic formulations. Clinical studies comparing an HME cream to a retinol cream reported no adverse skin reactions from the HME. However, as with any active ingredient, individuals with highly sensitive or reactive skin are advised to perform a patch test due to the potential for localized irritation or allergic response. Acute and sub-acute oral toxicity studies in mice indicate a relatively low systemic toxicity, with an LD50 in the range of 1000–1414 mg/kg.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Harungana Madagascariensis Extract is a valuable, multi-functional botanical asset, offering significant anti-aging benefits comparable to retinoids, robust antioxidant protection, and comprehensive skin conditioning suitable for nearly all skin types with low risk of irritation.
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References
Sources