Science
Mechanism of Action
Selaginella Tamariscina Extract exerts its diverse benefits through multiple pathways. It acts as a powerful antioxidant, neutralizing free radicals and mitigating oxidative stress to protect cellular integrity. Its anti-inflammatory properties, particularly attributed to amentoflavone, reduce inflammation and activate protective cellular responses by inducing HO-1. For anti-aging, STE precisely inhibits Matrix Metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1), an enzyme responsible for collagen degradation, thereby preserving skin structure. It also offers photoprotection by significantly reducing UVA-induced apoptosis and stimulating reparative autophagic responses. Furthermore, STE contributes to skin brightening by inhibiting tyrosinase, the enzyme central to melanin production, and provides significant deep hydration and long-term moisture retention, functioning as an excellent skin conditioning agent.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Medium confidence0.05%
Key findings
- 01 An 80% methanol extract at 0.05% (500 µg/mL) demonstrated a significant 95.0% inhibition of tyrosinase activity, indicating a potent skin whitening effect.
- 02 Isolated sumaflavone effectively inhibited UV-induced Matrix Metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) activity in primary human dermal fibroblasts, with an IC50 of 0.78 µM.
- 03 Isolated amentoflavone also inhibited UV-induced Matrix Metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) activity in primary human dermal fibroblasts, with an IC50 of 1.8 µM.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
This analysis is not applicable for Selaginella Tamariscina Extract, which is typically used as a liquid extract and not a powdered active ingredient prone to 'dusting' issues related to concentration.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
Selaginella Tamariscina Extract is readily soluble in aqueous and hydro-alcoholic systems, as extracts are commonly prepared using water or 80% methanol/ethanol. While a specific optimal pH range for cosmetic formulation stability is not detailed, a plant tissue culture study noted stability at pH 5.8.
Safety
Safety Profile
No specific CIR, SCCS, or FDA safety assessment is available for Selaginella Tamariscina Extract. However, in vitro studies indicate low cytotoxicity, with cell viability minimally impacted (only a 5.2% reduction) at concentrations up to 0.05% (0.5 mg/mL) in RAW 264.7 cells. All cosmetic ingredients within the EU are subject to rigorous safety assessments.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Selaginella Tamariscina Extract is a valuable multi-functional ingredient, demonstrating significant efficacy in skin brightening, anti-aging, antioxidant defense, and intense hydration, making it suitable for all skin types.
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References
Sources