Science
Mechanism of Action
This extract works by reducing skin redness and discomfort post-cleansing, providing a calming effect. Its antioxidant defense stems from polyphenols and naphthoquinones (rhinacanthins), which combat environmental free radical damage, including from UV exposure and pollution. Furthermore, its antimicrobial action helps clarify the skin by targeting common bacteria associated with congestion, such as *Staphylococcus epidermidis* and *Propionibacterium acnes*. It also demonstrates anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, antifungal, and antiviral capabilities, with fungicidal action specifically linked to disrupting fungal cell walls.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Medium confidenceN/A
Key findings
- 01 A formulated toner containing Rhinacanthus nasutus Leaf Extract, tested at concentrations from 0.001 to 1.0 mg/mL, demonstrated safety in HDFa cytotoxicity tests with cell survival rates between 78.37% and 94.00%. Human volunteer trials confirmed its safety and physical stability, yielding a Mean Irritation Index (MII) of 0.00, indicating no irritation. However, this specific formulation did not show effectiveness in sebum control when compared to a placebo.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
Formulations containing Rhinacanthus nasutus extract have shown good physical stability. It exhibits good solubility in water, alcohol, acetone, and DMSO, but is insoluble in ethyl acetate, chloroform, and hexane.
Safety
Safety Profile
The extract, at concentrations up to 1.0 mg/mL, demonstrated high cell survival rates (78.37 – 94.00%) in HDFa cytotoxicity tests. A formulated toner showed good physical stability and was safe in human volunteers with an MII score of 0.00, indicating no irritation. Additionally, a root extract gel (containing 0.1% rhinacanthin C) was confirmed non-genotoxic, non-skin corrosive, and non-irritating in both animal models and human patch tests. The ingredient is generally considered non-irritating.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Rhinacanthus nasutus Leaf Extract is a valuable botanical offering soothing, antioxidant, and antimicrobial benefits, with a strong safety profile confirmed in human studies, making it suitable for a wide range of skin types.
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