Science
Mechanism of Action
This extract delivers potent antioxidant effects by neutralizing free radicals and offers significant soothing and moisturizing benefits, reducing irritation and imparting softness to the skin. It contains active components such as penta-O-galloyl-β-D-glucose (PGG) and paeonol, which act as anti-inflammatory agents and resist photoaging by modulating specific cellular pathways. Furthermore, it inhibits the formation of Advanced Glycation End products (AGEs) and blocks their binding to AGE-Receptors (RAGE), effectively suppressing AGE-induced melanin production and restoring healthy keratinocyte differentiation, thereby diminishing skin dullness and pigmentation. It also gently stimulates cell turnover and aids in the production of essential collagen and elastin.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Low confidenceN/A
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
Despite the CIR indicating 'insufficient data' for an overall safety determination, specific Human Repeat Insult Patch Tests have confirmed non-irritating and non-sensitizing effects at concentrations up to 0.5%. The ingredient's comprehensive mechanistic profile for antioxidant, soothing, and brightening benefits suggests it is typically included in formulations for its active properties rather than merely at minimal 'dusting' levels.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
Paeonol, a key phenolic compound within the extract, faces challenges in formulation due to its poor water solubility, low stability, and high volatility at room temperature. However, the extract itself is commonly prepared via water or 50% 1,3-butylene glycol (BG) extraction, indicating the presence of stable water-soluble and polar constituents.
Safety
Safety Profile
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has determined that there is 'insufficient data' to make a conclusive determination of safety for Paeonia Suffruticosa Root Extract under its intended conditions of use in cosmetics. However, specific HRIPTs have shown no irritation or sensitization at concentrations of 0.5% (in a face mask) and 0.0015% (in a lotion), and undiluted extract was not irritating in a 24-hour closed patch dermal irritation test. While generally considered safe, individuals with plant sensitivities may experience reactions; a patch test is recommended. The maximum reported cosmetic use concentration is 0.5% in paste masks/mud packs and 0.05% in face powders for leave-on applications.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Paeonia Suffruticosa Root Extract is a valuable ingredient, rated 'good' by INCIdecoder, for its compelling antioxidant, soothing, and brightening mechanisms, and demonstrated low sensitization risk at tested concentrations of 0.0015% to 0.5%; however, direct clinical efficacy data for this specific species remains limited and the CIR has deemed its overall safety data as 'insufficient'.
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References
Sources