Science
Mechanism of Action
This extract's bioactive compounds, mainly sanguinarine and chelerythrine, target various molecular processes. They exhibit antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and cytotoxic activities, with sanguinarine showing broad-spectrum effects.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Low confidenceN/A
Key findings
- 01 Sanguinarine and chelerythrine showed antimicrobial activity against Mycobacterium aurum (IC50 values of 9.61 µg/mL and 7.30 µg/mL respectively).
- 02 Extracts and alkaloids exhibited cytotoxic activity against human melanoma cell lines in vitro (extracts 0.88-10.96 µg/mL, alkaloids below 0.55 µg/mL).
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
Given severe toxicity and controversial historical use in oral products and 'black salves', the issue is outright safety rather than ineffective low-dose inclusion in cosmetics. Its unpredictable effects preclude safe cosmetic application.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
Sanguinarine's cytotoxicity increases with rising pH as it converts to a more lipid-soluble form. Alkaloid composition varies naturally, impacting stability and efficacy.
Conflicts
- High pH environments, as sanguinarine's cytotoxicity increases with increasing pH.
Safety
Safety Profile
This ingredient has been linked to leukoplakia from oral products and severe toxicity, irreversible scarring, and premalignant conditions from self-administered topical 'black salves'. Its natural alkaloid variation contributes to unpredictable clinical effects.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Despite some in-vitro activity, this ingredient poses significant and unpredictable safety risks for topical use, making it unsuitable for skincare.
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