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Moumoujus

STYRAX BENZOIN GUM EXTRACT.

Questionable CAS 9000-05-9 / PERFUMING

Styrax Benzoin Gum Extract is a natural botanical derivative celebrated for its aromatic profile and diverse dermatological actions. It functions as a potent antioxidant, providing comprehensive soothing, antimicrobial, and skin-regenerative benefits to enhance skin health and appearance.

Summary

Perfuming Skin conditioning Film forming Masking Antioxidant Soothing Calming Antimicrobial Antiseptic Antibacterial Anti-inflammatory Astringent Wound healing Skin regeneration Skin protectant

Science

Mechanism of Action

This extract operates through multiple pathways to support skin vitality. It delivers significant antioxidant protection, neutralizing free radicals that contribute to premature aging. It actively soothes and calms irritated skin, while its antimicrobial, antiseptic, and antibacterial properties help purify the skin. Furthermore, it acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, reduces pore appearance through astringent action, and supports wound healing and skin regeneration, thereby offering a protective barrier.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range 5–10%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Recommended as an active ingredient in skincare products for its aromatic, toning, soothing, and stimulating properties when dissolved in water and glycerin.
  2. 02 When formulated as a tincture in alcohol, it demonstrates antimicrobial and disinfectant activities.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH ≥4.8
0 7 14

Stability

An optimal pH of 4.8 has been observed for ethanol extracts. Stability can be significantly enhanced through the use of surfactants, with an optimal HLB of 12.7 when using Tween 80 and Span 80, which helps prevent deposit formation. The extract is soluble in 85% w/w pure ethanol and can be formulated as a 20% extract in water and glycerin. Exposure to light can cause tinctures of benzoin to darken, and the ingredient is generally unstable with excess heat, incompatible materials, and oxidizing agents.

Synergies

  • Surfactants (e.g., Tween 80, Span 80) for enhanced stability

Conflicts

  • Excess heat
  • Oxidizing agents
  • Light (can cause discoloration)

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Max tested
0.6%
Sensitization risk High

Styrax Benzoin Gum Extract itself lacks specific CIR review. However, related compounds and products derived from Styrax benzoin, such as cinnamic acid, benzyl benzoate (max 0.6% for sensitization), and benzyl cinnamate (max 0.8% for sensitization), are known to be volatile aromatic compounds with allergenic potential. The SCCS recommends that related Liquidambar spp. Balsam Extracts and Oils (Storax) not exceed 0.6% in consumer products due to sensitization concerns, and crude gums should be avoided as fragrance ingredients. Tinctures of benzoin are recognized contact allergens, capable of inducing skin rashes and irritation (H315), serious eye irritation (H319), and allergic skin reactions (H317), often necessitating a patch test before use.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Questionable

While Styrax Benzoin Gum Extract offers a range of beneficial skin properties, its high potential for sensitization and irritation, coupled with strict concentration limits, makes its inclusion in precision skincare formulations a careful consideration.

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