Science
Mechanism of Action
This extract operates by strengthening the skin's natural moisture barrier, thereby enhancing hydration and safeguarding against external aggressors. It is theorized to exert retinoid-like actions, diminishing wrinkles, stimulating gene expression crucial for skin regeneration, and boosting dermal protein synthesis for a comprehensive rejuvenating effect. Rich in antioxidant compounds, it effectively neutralizes free radicals and mitigates oxidative stress. Its inherent anti-inflammatory and antibacterial attributes offer relief for irritated skin and can be beneficial in managing conditions such as acne, dermatitis, and eczema. The presence of steviol glycosides provides humectant properties, drawing and retaining moisture, while natural steroid alcohols contribute an astringent action to decongest and minimize pores.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Medium confidence1%
Key findings
- 01 A clinical study demonstrated that a 1% concentration in a gel formulation significantly improved skin hydration by 24% after 14 days and 20% after 28 days compared to untreated skin. This effect was quantified as three times more moisturizing than glycerin.
- 02 An animal study involving male Wistar rats exposed to Ultraviolet B indicated that a 5% cream preserved dermal collagen, suggesting its potential to prevent photoaging and maintain skin's structural integrity.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
Information regarding common dusting practices or dusting thresholds for Stevia Rebaudiana Leaf Extract is not available in the provided research data.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
Stevia is generally stable across typical heat and pH ranges encountered in cosmetic formulations. However, one of its primary active components, Rebaudioside A (a steviol glycoside), exhibits approximately 10 times faster degradation when exposed to UV light, particularly in citrate buffers compared to water or phosphate buffers. To maintain optimal stability and efficacy, light-protective packaging is recommended for formulations containing this extract. Steviol glycosides are highly soluble.
Safety
Safety Profile
While highly purified steviol glycosides are recognized as 'Generally Recognized As Safe' (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food sweetener and approved in the European Union, whole stevia leaves and crude extracts lack sufficient toxicological data for similar food additive approvals. Crude stevia preparations may possess allergenic potential due to compounds inherent to the Asteraceae plant family. Concerns from older animal studies regarding reduced fertility and potential mutagenicity of steviol at high dosages have largely been disproven or deemed irrelevant for topical cosmetic concentrations. SkinSAFE rates 'Stevia Rebaudiana Extract' as Teen SAFE, Eyelid SAFE, and Irritant Free, suggesting good topical tolerance.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Stevia Rebaudiana Leaf Extract is a valuable, multi-functional botanical ingredient, delivering robust hydration, notable anti-aging benefits, and soothing properties, rendering it highly suitable for precision skincare formulations targeting diverse skin concerns.
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