Science
Mechanism of Action
Malva Sylvestris extract, encompassing components also present in seeds, exerts its beneficial effects through multiple pathways. Its anti-inflammatory action is attributed to mucilages, anthocyanosides, and tannins, reducing skin irritation and redness. Mucilages and polysaccharides provide moisturizing and hydrating properties by forming a protective barrier to prevent transepidermal water loss. Antioxidant activity, primarily from anthocyanosides and vitamins, neutralizes damaging free radicals. Additionally, it may promote wound healing by stimulating collagen production and accelerating cell proliferation. Tannins within the extract can offer a gentle exfoliating effect, assisting in the removal of dead skin cells, and may also contribute to pore refinement and skin tightening. The ingredient also demonstrates potential for skin brightening and anti-aging benefits through its multifaceted actions.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Medium confidenceN/A
Key findings
- 01 Malva Sylvestris extract (from flower/leaf/stem) has been shown to be effective in improving the appearance of dry, sensitive, and irritated skin, and significantly reduced redness and itching in individuals with eczema. A serum containing this extract also improved the hydration and elasticity of dry skin, benefits attributed to components also found in seeds.
- 02 A Malva extract at a concentration of 0.6% demonstrated an approximately 23% reduction in human neutrophil elastase (HME) activity, indicating a protective effect on elastin fibers against degradation. Increasing the concentration to 5% inhibited HME activity by 80%, providing significant protection.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
No data available regarding dusting behavior for Malva Sylvestris Seed extract.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
Mucilage suspensions derived from Malva sylvestris fruits, which contain seeds, have exhibited a slightly basic pH, suggesting potential stability within this pH range. No explicit optimal pH range for the stability of the seed extract in cosmetic formulations has been definitively established.
Safety
Safety Profile
The CIR Expert Panel has deemed 8 Malva sylvestris-derived ingredients, including extracts from the flower, leaf, stem, and oil, to be safe for use in cosmetics under current practices of use and concentration, provided they are formulated to be non-sensitizing. The historical use of mallow as a food mitigates systemic toxicity concerns. Human dermal irritation and sensitization studies for other Malva Sylvestris extracts have shown negative findings. Formulators should be aware of potential sensitizing constituents like cinnamal if combining multiple botanicals.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Malva Sylvestris Seed offers valuable broad-spectrum benefits, including significant soothing, hydrating, and elastin-protective properties, making it a highly beneficial component for diverse skincare formulations, particularly for sensitive and aging skin.
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