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SILYBUM MARIANUM EXTRACT.

Valuable CAS 84604-20-6 / SKIN CONDITIONING

Silybum Marianum Extract, derived from the milk thistle plant, is a potent botanical active providing multifaceted benefits for skin health. Its richness in silymarin delivers powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions, promoting skin resilience against environmental stressors and supporting cellular regeneration.

Antioxidant Anti-inflammatory Skin Conditioning UV-Protectant Humectant Sebum Regulation Collagen Synthesis Boosting Hyaluronic Acid Production Boosting Extracellular Matrix Protection Skin Barrier Strengthening

Science

The efficacy of Silybum Marianum Extract is largely attributed to its silymarin content, which acts as a robust antioxidant. It efficiently neutralizes free radicals and restores endogenous glutathione levels, thereby protecting the skin from oxidative stress induced by environmental factors like pollution and UV radiation. Its significant anti-inflammatory properties stem from inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-8, TNF-α, and IL-1α, leading to reduced redness and swelling, which is particularly beneficial for conditions like acne and rosacea. This extract also contributes to comprehensive anti-aging effects by stimulating collagen synthesis and enhancing hyaluronic acid production, which collectively improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Furthermore, silybin, a key component of silymarin, inhibits protein glycation, boosts fibrillin-1 expression, and prevents the degradation of the extracellular matrix by inhibiting collagenase and elastase activity. These actions collectively strengthen the skin's natural barrier function and can help regulate sebum production.


Research

High confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

4%

Key findings

  1. 01 A topical water-in-oil emulsion containing 4.0% Silybum marianum seed extract significantly improved skin hydration, reduced transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and led to notable wrinkle reduction.
  2. 02 Long-term topical application of Silybum marianum fruit extract, over a 12-month clinical cohort study, substantially reduced acne lesion counts, improved seborrhea, and restored skin homeostasis with excellent tolerance.

Transparency

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 4.5 – 6.5
0 7 14

Stability

The extract is most stable and effective within a pH range of 4.5 to 6.5. While some commercial forms are formulated for water solubility, the key active components like silymarin are inherently poorly soluble in water. This necessitates careful formulation, often requiring specific cosmetic vehicles such as hydrogels or organogels, or hydro-alcoholic/organic solvent solutions, to enhance skin penetration and bioavailability.


Safety

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Sensitization risk Low

Generally well-tolerated and considered non-irritating for the skin at standard cosmetic concentrations. Oral silymarin demonstrates low toxicity with high lethal doses in animal studies and no noted embryotoxic potential. However, individuals with known allergies to plants within the daisy or ragweed family should exercise caution.


Your Skin

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

Our Assessment

Valuable

Silybum Marianum Extract is a valuable botanical active offering broad-spectrum benefits, including powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, alongside anti-aging and skin barrier support.


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