Science
Mechanism of Action
This ingredient operates through several sophisticated pathways to benefit the skin. Its active compounds, particularly shikonin and β,β-dimethylacryloyl alkannin (DMA), act as powerful anti-inflammatory agents by suppressing key pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6) and upregulating anti-inflammatory ones (e.g., IL-4), alongside inhibiting p38, JNK, and NF-κB activation. It functions as an antioxidant by neutralizing free radicals and bolstering endogenous oxidative defenses via Nrf2/ARE activation, thereby safeguarding against environmental stressors. Furthermore, it demonstrably improves skin barrier integrity by reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and enhancing both skin hydration and sebum content. Additional mechanisms include promoting keratinocyte apoptosis, inhibiting keratinocyte proliferation and angiogenesis, blocking cell cycle progression, inhibiting glycation, aiding in wound healing, and regulating excessive oil production. It also possesses some UV absorption capabilities and may offer clarifying effects that reduce pigment spots.
Research
Clinical Evidence
High confidenceN/A
Key findings
- 01 Topical cosmetic formulations typically employ concentrations between 0.002% and 0.02% for benefits such as improving skin barrier function, reducing trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), soothing, and mitigating oxidative stress.
- 02 Emulsions containing Lithospermum erythrorhizon root extract demonstrated significant moisturizing effects on skin hydration, with a maximum increase of 11.77% (± 1.18%), and improved skin barrier function by decreasing transepidermal water loss by up to 7.68% (± 0.79%) in a time- and dose-dependent manner among healthy Asian females.
- 03 Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) formulas featuring Lithospermum erythrorhizon as the sovereign herb led to significant improvements in psoriatic dermatitis and reduced the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) score in clinical trials.
- 04 Oral supplementation of gromwell at 1.5 g/day improved stratum corneum hydration and increased stratum corneum ceramides, effectively relieving pruritic symptoms in atopic dermatitis patients after 10 weeks.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
Data on dusting percentages or thresholds for this ingredient is not available in the provided research.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
The ingredient's characteristic red/pink color, attributed to naphthoquinones, exhibits excellent photostability and heat-stability. These naphthoquinones are oil-soluble and maintain a stable deep red hue, transitioning to a blue-magenta color in alkaline environments.
Conflicts
- Potential for polymerization of shikonin compounds unless formulated with appropriate lipophilic solubilizers and free radical stabilizers.
Safety
Safety Profile
Rated safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR). While generally considered safe when incorporated into cosmetic formulations at recommended concentrations, a patch test is advisable for sensitive individuals due to the possibility of allergic reactions.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Lithospermum Erythrorhizon Root is a valuable, multifunctional ingredient recognized for its robust anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and skin barrier-supporting properties, making it highly beneficial across a broad spectrum of skin concerns and types.
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References
Sources