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Moumoujus

PRUNUS SPECIOSA LEAF EXTRACT.

Valuable / SKIN CONDITIONING

Prunus Speciosa Leaf Extract, derived from the Oshima cherry, is a multi-functional botanical ingredient. It delivers significant antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and skin-brightening benefits, making it suitable for a wide range of precision skincare formulations. Research, often utilizing closely related Prunus species, indicates its potential for soothing irritation, protecting against environmental stressors, and promoting a more even skin tone.

Summary

Antioxidant Skin-soothing Humectant Moisturizer

Science

Mechanism of Action

This extract, and similar Prunus species, operates through several key pathways. It acts as a potent antioxidant, owing to its rich content of phenolic compounds, flavonoids (like rutin), and condensed tannins, which effectively neutralize free radicals and inhibit oxidative enzymes, thus safeguarding skin from cellular damage. Its anti-inflammatory action is demonstrated by its ability to modulate inflammatory mediators, reduce histamine release, and alleviate various forms of edema and irritation. Furthermore, it functions as an anti-tyrosinase agent, actively suppressing melanin synthesis to address hyperpigmentation and enhance skin radiance. It also supports skin barrier function, provides moisturization, and may mitigate UVB-induced DNA damage while promoting healthy epidermal turnover for improved texture.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range 0.338–2%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Studies on the closely related Prunus yedoensis Leaf Extract demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects, inhibiting rough skin, histamine release, contact dermatitis, and edema at concentrations of 0.338% to 0.675% solid matter.
  2. 02 Prunus yedoensis extract, at 0.5%, 1.0%, and 2.0%, protected human keratinocytes (HaCaT cells) from UVB-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis by reducing reactive oxygen species and DNA damage, while boosting antioxidant enzyme activity.
  3. 03 A cream with Prunus cerasifera leaf extract (unspecified concentration) was well-tolerated in human patch tests, exhibiting significant antioxidant, anti-lipid peroxidation, anti-tyrosinase, and anti-inflammatory properties.
  4. 04 Cherry blossom extract (Prunus yedoensis) showed notable anti-inflammatory efficacy in both in vitro and in vivo models, significantly reducing irritation and erythema in an SLS irritant patch test.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

To maintain optimal phenolic and tannin stability, and thus its antioxidant properties, storage at lower temperatures (e.g., 4 ± 2 °C) is recommended, as higher temperatures can accelerate degradation. Given the potential presence of natural fruit acids, formulating with SPF is advisable as the extract may increase photosensitivity. It is available in water-soluble forms (often in 1,3-Butylene Glycol) and also in oil-soluble versions.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Sensitization risk Low

EWG assesses Prunus Speciosa Leaf Extract with a LOW hazard rating across categories including Cancer, Allergies & Immunotoxicity, and Developmental and Reproductive Toxicity. Clinical dermal safety studies, including patch tests on human volunteers using closely related Prunus leaf extracts (P. cerasifera, P. yedoensis), have indicated good tolerability with no reported irritation.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Prunus Speciosa Leaf Extract is a valuable botanical ingredient, offering comprehensive benefits including potent antioxidant, soothing, and brightening properties with excellent skin compatibility and a low risk of irritation.

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