What is Calotropis Procera Callus Extract?
Calotropis Procera Callus Extract is a unique cosmetic ingredient derived from the callus of the Calotropis procera plant, a member of the Apocynaceae family. This plant is also commonly known as the Apple of Sodom or the Dead Sea Apple. The extract is rich in various bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, terpenoids, and cardiac glycosides, which contribute to its beneficial properties.
The use of Calotropis procera in cosmetics is a relatively recent development, but the plant itself has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly in Africa and Asia. It was traditionally used for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties. The callus extract is obtained through a process of plant tissue culture, where cells from the plant are grown in a nutrient medium under sterile conditions. This allows for the production of a consistent and high-quality extract.
Calotropis Procera Callus Extract serves a similar function to other plant-derived antioxidants used in cosmetics, such as green tea extract or grape seed extract. However, it stands out due to its unique source and the specific combination of bioactive compounds it contains. This gives it a unique profile of antioxidant, skin conditioning, and skin protecting properties.
Typically, you can find Calotropis Procera Callus Extract in a variety of skincare products. These include moisturizers, serums, and anti-aging formulations, where it works to protect the skin from oxidative stress, improve skin texture, and enhance the skin’s natural barrier function.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Calotropis Procera Callus Extract:
Antioxidant Properties
Calotropis Procera Callus Extract is known for its antioxidant properties. In simple terms, antioxidants are substances that can prevent or slow damage to cells caused by free radicals, which are unstable molecules that the body produces as a reaction to environmental and other pressures. In the context of skincare, this means that Calotropis Procera Callus Extract can help protect your skin from damage caused by environmental factors such as pollution and UV radiation. This can result in healthier-looking skin with a more youthful appearance.
Skin Conditioning
Another official function of Calotropis Procera Callus Extract is skin conditioning. This means it helps to make the skin feel smoother, softer and more supple. It achieves this by enhancing the appearance and feel of dry or damaged skin by reducing flaking and restoring suppleness. So, if you’re dealing with dry or rough skin, products containing Calotropis Procera Callus Extract could be a beneficial addition to your skincare routine.
Skin Protecting
Lastly, Calotropis Procera Callus Extract is recognized for its skin protecting function. This essentially means that it forms a barrier on the skin’s surface to protect it from external factors that can cause damage, such as harsh weather conditions or environmental pollutants. This can help to maintain the skin’s overall health and appearance, and may also reduce the risk of skin conditions caused by external damage.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Calotropis Procera Callus Extract. There may be other benefits and uses of this ingredient that go beyond the scope of these official functions, but for the purpose of this article, we have focused on the direct benefits as per the CosIng Database.
Safety Profile
Calotropis Procera Callus Extract is not a banned or regulated ingredient in cosmetics. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic products. However, as with any ingredient, individual reactions can vary and it may not be suitable for all skin types.
While it is not known to be a common allergen, some individuals may experience an allergic reaction to Calotropis Procera Callus Extract. It is always recommended to perform a patch test before using any new product on a larger area of skin.
Potential side effects of topical application of Calotropis Procera Callus Extract may include:
- Redness
- Itching
- Swelling
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – there is currently limited data available on the safety of topical usage of Calotropis Procera Callus Extract during pregnancy or breastfeeding. As such, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for further advice.
Adverse reactions to Calotropis Procera Callus Extract are not common, but it is always recommended to perform a patch test before widespread usage to ensure there is no adverse reaction.
This ingredient analysis has been commissioned by Truth In Skincare (TiS), an independent industry regulator. The analysis was conducted by a TiS-appointed industry consultant, with sources including CosIng (Cosmetic Ingredient Database – by the European Commission), the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA), and other various publicly available sources.
