Lycium Chinense Fruit Extract
What is Lycium Chinense Fruit Extract?
Lycium chinense fruit extract comes from the red berries of Lycium chinense, a deciduous shrub in the Solanaceae family native to East Asia, often called Chinese boxthorn. These berries are harvested and processed into a concentrated extract rich in bioactive compounds like carotenoids, polysaccharides, and polyphenols. In cosmetics, it serves mainly as an antioxidant agent in categories such as serums, creams, and masks. It functions by donating electrons to neutralize free radicals, preventing the degradation of product ingredients like oils and fragrances, while also contributing to formulation stability against rancidity and discoloration. Additionally, its compounds may help shield skin cells from environmental oxidative damage, supporting overall product efficacy and skin resilience in oxidative conditions.
Roles in Formulation
This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:
Benefits
Provides antioxidant action to protect product stability and reduce ingredient breakdown.
Helps neutralize free radicals that contribute to oxidative stress on skin.
Supports skin conditioning through natural bioactive compounds.
Who It's For
A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).
| Who May Benefit | Who Should Avoid |
|---|---|
| Individuals interested in natural botanical antioxidants for daily skincare. | Those with known allergies to plants in the Solanaceae family. |
| Those using products exposed to air or light, benefiting from extended shelf life. | Individuals sensitive to berry extracts in cosmetics. |
| People in environments with high oxidative stressors like pollution. | People with untested reactions to novel botanical ingredients. |
Safety Notes
- Rated low hazard by safety databases with no significant concerns at cosmetic levels.
- Non-comedogenic, unlikely to clog pores based on available data.
Frequently Asked Questions about Lycium Chinense Fruit Extract
What is Lycium Chinense Fruit Extract?
A botanical extract from the berries of the Lycium chinense shrub, used for its antioxidant capabilities in cosmetics.
Is it safe for sensitive skin?
Generally low irritation potential per safety assessments, but patch test if sensitive.
What role does it play in products?
Acts as an antioxidant to maintain formula integrity and support skin against oxidation.