Science
Mechanism of Action
This extract exerts its effects primarily through compounds like lawsone, demonstrating significant antioxidant capabilities by interrupting oxygen-favored reactions and preventing cellular oxidation. Additionally, it exhibits anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal actions, supporting its historical application in wound care and as a cooling agent.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Low confidenceN/A
Key findings
- 01 A preclinical study showed that a 10% aqueous Henna leaf extract, formulated in petroleum jelly, produced statistically significant wound healing effects in mice. This included a reduction in burn surface area and an increase in wound contraction percentage.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has concluded that lawsone, a key active constituent of Lawsonia inermis, possesses genotoxic and mutagenic potential in vitro and in vivo. Consequently, no safe threshold for lawsone can be established in cosmetic products, making any concentration a potential concern.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
Antifungal activity of the extract remains stable within a pH range of 7 to 9 but shows a reduction at pH 4, indicating optimal performance in neutral to slightly alkaline environments.
Safety
Safety Profile
The SCCS has determined that lawsone, a primary active compound, exhibits genotoxicity/mutagenicity potential, making it impossible to establish a safe use threshold for Lawsonia inermis extracts. Rare case reports of contact allergy to Henna have been documented. Given these concerns, the ingredient is considered unsuitable for precision skincare applications.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Due to the SCCS's finding of genotoxic and mutagenic potential for lawsone, its primary active component, and the inability to establish a safe use threshold, this ingredient is unsuitable for inclusion in precision skincare formulations.
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References
Sources