Science
Mechanism of Action
This extract contains bioactive compounds like beta-glucans, phenolic acids, and flavonoids, which collectively provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. It functions by reducing proinflammatory cytokines and nitric oxide production, contributing to calm and healthy skin. When fermented, it generates beneficial metabolites that enhance immediate surface conditioning, decrease IL-8 to soothe irritation, and prevent excess oil production, while concentrating natural antioxidants and yielding smaller molecules for deeper penetration and prolonged hydration.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Medium confidenceN/A
Key findings
- 01 A 0.1% concentration of Hordeum Vulgare Seed Extract in a skin serum formulation was shown to be non-irritating and non-sensitizing in human repeated insult patch tests (HRIPTs).
- 02 Hordeum Vulgare Extract has been used at concentrations up to 1.5% in leave-on body and hand skin care products.
- 03 Hordeum Distichon (Barley) Extract was reported in leave-on moisturizing products at up to 1.8%, demonstrating no dermal sensitization, though a slight potential for irritation was noted. It was also found non-irritating and non-sensitizing in eye cream formulations.
- 04 The highest reported concentration of Hordeum Distichon (Barley) Extract was 2.76% in a facial moisturizer, where mild-moderate reactions were observed in one subject during an HRIPT, potentially linked to prior exposure to another ingredient.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
Insufficient data in the provided research to assess the ingredient's potential for dusting in consumer formulations.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
A milky preparation of Hordeum Vulgare Seed Extract exhibits a pH range of 3.5 to 4.7. The ingredient is reported to be stable at room temperature when in a lyophilized powder form. Ultrasonication has been shown to enhance the colloidal stability of barley protein isolate at both acidic and neutral pH levels.
Conflicts
- A 10% diluted solution of Hordeum Vulgare Seed Extract has been reported as non-miscible in both mineral and vegetal oils, suggesting potential formulation challenges when integrated into predominantly oil-based systems.
Safety
Safety Profile
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel deemed barley seed- and sprout-derived ingredients, including Hordeum Vulgare Seed Extract and Hordeum Distichon (Barley) Extract, safe for cosmetic use within current practices and concentrations, supported by generally negative findings in human dermal irritation and sensitization studies. Systemic exposure from cosmetic application is considered significantly lower than dietary intake. While 'SH-BARLEY SEED EXTRACT' is not a standard INCI name, malt extract from Hordeum vulgare L. holds a GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) designation from the US FDA for other applications. Despite overall low risk, slight potential for dermal irritation was noted at 1.8% and mild-moderate reactions in one subject at 2.76% (possibly due to prior exposure).
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
SH-BARLEY SEED EXTRACT is a valuable ingredient, broadly compatible with all skin types, offering significant antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and moisturizing benefits within safe usage concentrations, particularly for maintaining skin health and reducing irritation.
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