Get a Free 5ml Mini Now Free 5ml Mini With Every Order of The Mantle
Moumoujus

SHALE EXTRACT.

Valuable / SKIN CONDITIONING - EMOLLIENT

Shale Extract, particularly in its sulfonated forms, is a potent multi-functional ingredient renowned for its robust anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial efficacy. It effectively soothes irritated skin, aids in tissue repair, and helps normalize various skin functions, addressing a spectrum of dermatological concerns with precision.

Summary

Anti-inflammatory Antimicrobial Antidandruff Wound Healing Sebum Regulation Keratoplastic Anti-fungal Anti-seborrheic Soothing Redness Reduction Itch Relief Pore Refining

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient operates via multiple pathways to restore skin balance. It significantly reduces inflammation by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines, enzymes such as prostaglandins and cyclooxygenase, and the 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX) pathway, thereby preventing leukotriene synthesis. Concurrently, it exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial action, including against Propionibacterium acnes (with an MIC of 0.039% for Ichthyol® Pale), alongside anti-fungal and anti-seborrheic properties. Its keratoplastic effects help regulate sebum production, refine pores, and normalize cellular growth and desquamation, promoting healing and a clearer complexion.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 0.5–10%
Optimal

0.5%

Key findings

  1. 01 Demonstrated anti-inflammatory efficacy comparable to 0.5% hydrocortisone in treating UVB erythema and mild to moderate atopic eczema in children.
  2. 02 Applied daily for 20 weeks, it significantly enhanced the healing of venous leg ulcers, showing a greater reduction in ulcer area compared to a vehicle group.
  3. 03 Resulted in significant improvement in scaling for dandruff over 16 days, outperforming a control substance.
  4. 04 Achieved an 'good' or 'very good' efficacy rating in approximately 76% of cases for eliminating skin impurities (pimples) after a six-week treatment period.
  5. 05 Reduced the average number of visible skin lesions by approximately 80% over an eight-week treatment phase.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

Clinical evidence consistently demonstrates efficacy across a range of concentrations from 1% to 10% for various skin conditions, positioning Shale Extract as a potent active ingredient. Its recommended cosmetic concentration range (0.5-5%) further indicates it is used at therapeutically relevant levels, not as a negligible 'dusting' ingredient.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Stable across a wide pH range. Precipitation may occur when exposed to strong acids.

Synergies

  • Salicylic acid (for enhanced reduction of skin lesions)

Conflicts

  • strong acids
  • alkali carbonates
  • alkali hydrates
  • alkaloidal salts

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Max tested
10%
Sensitization risk Low

Sulfonated shale oil (e.g., Ichthyol® Pale) is non-carcinogenic, non-mutagenic, and REACH registered. Considered safe under German Federal Food Law, it exhibits a large safety factor and is generally well-tolerated. Its inclusion in baby products and sensitive skin formulations underscores its favorable safety profile.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Shale Extract is a valuable, multi-targeted ingredient with strong clinical evidence for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and healing properties, effectively addressing a diverse range of skin concerns from acne and eczema to wound care with a high safety profile.

Related

Similar Ingredients

Finding similar ingredients…