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

STYRAX BENZOIN GUM.

Valuable CAS 9000-05-9 / 9000-72-0 / FILM FORMING, FRAGRANCE, PERFUMING, SKIN CONDITIONING

Styrax Benzoin Gum is a natural resin extract revered for its multifaceted benefits in skincare. It delivers antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties, promoting skin health while aiding in conditioning, moisture retention, and pore refinement.

Summary

Antioxidant Antimicrobial Anti-inflammatory Astringent Skin Conditioning Film-forming Perfuming Preservative

Science

Mechanism of Action

This botanical gum operates through several pathways: it acts as an antioxidant, mitigating oxidative stress and potentially contributing to anti-aging effects. Its broad-spectrum antimicrobial action (bactericidal, germicidal, antiviral, fungicidal, antiseptic) helps to control unwanted microorganisms. Furthermore, it possesses anti-inflammatory and astringent qualities, which can soothe irritation and refine pore appearance. It also functions as a skin conditioner, enhancing moisturization, softness, and elasticity, while supporting the healing of minor wounds and scars. In formulations, it can serve as a film-forming agent and a natural preservative.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Recent research highlights the promising antibacterial efficacy of Styrax benzoin extracts against common skin bacteria, *Staphylococcus aureus* and *Escherichia coli*.
  2. 02 Historically, Styrax benzoin has been utilized in traditional medicine for various dermatological conditions, including skin ulcers, wounds, bedsores, psoriasis, and eczema.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH 4.8 – 5.1
0 7 14

Stability

Styrax Benzoin Gum is insoluble in water but readily dissolves in alcohol and can be incorporated into essential oil blends. For enhanced stability of extracts, co-solvents such as propylene glycol and polyethylene glycol are beneficial. Optimal formulation stability has been observed within a pH range of 4.8 to 5.1, and an optimal HLB of 12.7 when using surfactants like Tween 80 and Span 80.

Synergies

  • Improved stability with cosolvents like propylene glycol and polyethylene glycol.
  • Optimal emulsification achieved with an HLB of 12.7 using surfactants such as Tween 80 and Span 80.

Conflicts

  • Sensitive skin types are prone to sensitization and irritation, primarily due to volatile aromatic compounds like cinnamic acid.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Insufficient data
Sensitization risk Moderate

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) included Styrax Benzoin Gum in a 2014 draft report; however, a definitive final safety assessment, including maximum safe concentrations specifically for the resin, is currently unavailable. The ingredient carries a moderate risk of sensitization and irritation, particularly for sensitive skin, attributed to aromatic compounds such as cinnamic acid. Prior patch testing is advised. It holds 'Generally Recognized As Safe' (GRAS) status by the FDA for certain food uses.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Moderate
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Styrax Benzoin Gum offers a valuable blend of antioxidant, antimicrobial, and skin-conditioning benefits, though careful formulation and consideration for sensitive skin are essential due to moderate irritancy risk.

Related

Similar Ingredients

Finding similar ingredients…