Science
Mechanism of Action
This extract functions primarily as a potent antioxidant, effectively neutralizing free radicals and shielding skin cells from oxidative stress. It exhibits anti-melanogenic effects by inhibiting melanin production and tyrosinase activity, specifically by down-regulating the expression of MITF, tyrosinase, TRP-1, and TRP-2, while simultaneously up-regulating MEK, ERK, Akt, and GSK3β, and down-regulating β-catenin. Furthermore, it delivers anti-aging benefits through anti-glycation, protecting structural skin proteins and reducing Advanced Glycation End-products (AGEs), which contributes to improved skin tone and firmness. The extract can also stimulate collagen production, and in some forms, offers protection against UV-induced skin aging. It possesses anti-inflammatory properties to soothe irritation and diminish redness, enhances skin hydration by supporting the protective barrier and moisture retention, and may stimulate natural moisturizing compounds like hyaluronic acid. Additionally, it helps balance sebum production and demonstrates antibacterial efficacy.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Medium confidenceN/A
Key findings
- 01 Prunus mume extract (PME) demonstrated significant antioxidant activity, neutralizing over 45% of free radical activity at a concentration of 1000 μg/mL. In studies on murine B16 melanoma cells, PME effectively inhibited melanin production when treated with α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone, without exhibiting cytotoxic effects at concentrations below 1500 μg/mL.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
While specific stability data for Prunus Mume Root Extract is not extensively detailed, analyses of Prunus mume fructus (fruit) extract analytes have shown stability under tested conditions in pharmacokinetic studies, suggesting general extract stability.
Safety
Safety Profile
Specific safety assessments for Prunus Mume Root Extract by the CIR or SCCS are not currently available. However, related extracts such as Prunus Mume Flower Extract are widely approved for cosmetic use and considered safe, with Prunus mume ripened seed extract demonstrating non-toxicity in animal tests. General Prunus mume extracts have shown non-cytotoxicity to cells up to 200 µg/mL, and in an in vitro study, the specific extract was non-cytotoxic below 1500 µg/mL. While generally well-tolerated, individuals with known allergies to plants within the Rosaceae family should exercise caution due to the potential for mild skin irritation or itching.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Prunus Mume Root Extract is a valuable multi-functional ingredient, offering significant antioxidant, anti-aging, and skin-brightening benefits supported by promising in vitro data, making it suitable for a wide range of skin types and formulations.
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References
Sources