Science
Mechanism of Action
This extract exerts its effects through a rich profile of active compounds, including alpha-pinene, beta-caryophyllene, quercetin, and various flavonoids. These components are observed to mitigate inflammation by reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines, offer antioxidant protection by modulating oxidative stress markers, and demonstrate antimicrobial activity. Furthermore, general extracts from the Schinus terebinthifolius plant have been shown to decrease tyrosinase activity and inhibit melanin synthesis, suggesting a role in skin brightening. Concentrated oil from the plant's pink berries has also demonstrated anti-adipogenic effects by inhibiting large lipid cell formation and promoting the release of glycerol and fatty acids, indicating potential for body contouring.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Insufficient-data confidenceN/A
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
The ingredient, particularly its essential oil components, is prone to oxidation over time, which may heighten its skin sensitizing potential. Formulations are advised to include antioxidants to maintain stability. The inherent low bioavailability noted for essential oils suggests that specific formulation strategies might be necessary to optimize its efficacy and duration of activity on the skin.
Safety
Safety Profile
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) has not yet prioritized Schinus Terebinthifolia Seed Extract for review. A human repeat insult patch test (HRIPT) conducted on a related chemical (likely an essential oil from Schinus Terebinthifolius) at a 10% concentration did not induce skin irritation or sensitization. However, a Local Lymph Node Assay (LLNA) tested positive for skin sensitization with an EC3 at 22.3%. The ingredient's susceptibility to oxidation over time could increase its sensitizing potential. Despite this, it is generally regarded as having low acute toxicity, not severely irritating to the skin or eyes, and not genotoxic. Consumer-oriented databases generally list it as 'Irritant Free' and 'Allergy Free' (SkinSAFE) or 'Generally non-irritating' (Paula's Choice), and EWG Skin Deep rates concerns for Allergies & Immunotoxicity as 'LOW'.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
While Schinus Terebinthifolia Seed Extract contains compounds with promising anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and potential skin brightening and body-shaping properties, specific clinical efficacy data for this particular seed extract is currently insufficient to provide a definitive rating.
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