Science
Mechanism of Action
This extract acts as a potent antioxidant, primarily due to its rich content of flavonoids and carotenoids, which efficiently neutralize free radicals and mitigate oxidative stress on the skin. It exerts anti-inflammatory effects, effectively soothing irritated skin and reducing associated redness and swelling. Mechanistically, Tagetes Erecta promotes cellular regeneration and significantly enhances collagen synthesis, showing increases of up to 83.7% in human dermal fibroblasts. Its anti-aging actions also involve inhibiting enzymes such as tyrosinase (linked to melanin overproduction), elastase, hyaluronidase, and collagenase. Furthermore, it aids in wound healing by stimulating cell proliferation, demonstrates antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis, and contributes to improved skin hydration.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Medium confidenceN/A
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
Due to identified phototoxicity, the European Union has officially classified Tagetes erecta flower extract and flower oil as prohibited substances in Annex II of the EU Cosmetics Regulations since 2018. Consequently, it is banned for use in cosmetic products within the EU and is not a candidate for 'dusting' or inclusion in new formulations.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
A 95% ethanolic extract of Tagetes erecta at 1% concentration in a lotion formulation demonstrated stability.
Conflicts
- Exposure to UV light (due to its phototoxic nature, both extract and essential oil)
- Strong oxidizing agents (typical for antioxidant-rich botanical extracts)
Safety
Safety Profile
The European Union's Scientific Committee on Consumer Products (SCCS) has identified Tagetes erecta flower extracts and oils as phototoxic. This critical safety concern led to their classification as prohibited substances in Annex II of the EU Cosmetics Regulations in 2018, effectively banning their use in cosmetic products across the EU. The essential oil derived from this plant also carries a significant phototoxicity risk.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Despite compelling in-vitro data for collagen stimulation and anti-aging effects, Tagetes Erecta Flower Extract is phototoxic and legally banned in EU cosmetics, rendering its use unadvisable in any precision skincare formulation.
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