What is Ginkgo Biflavones?
Ginkgo Biflavones is a unique mixture of biflavones that are extracted from the leaves of the Ginkgo Biloba tree. This mixture is primarily composed of four key components: sciadopitysin, bilobetin, ginkgetin, and isoginkgetin. These compounds are known for their potent antioxidant properties, which have made Ginkgo Biflavones a popular ingredient in the cosmetic industry.
The use of Ginkgo Biloba in cosmetics can be traced back to ancient times when it was recognized for its medicinal properties. Over time, scientific research has revealed the specific benefits of the biflavones found in Ginkgo Biloba, leading to the extraction and use of Ginkgo Biflavones in cosmetic products.
The process of making Ginkgo Biflavones involves the extraction of the leaves of the Ginkgo Biloba tree. These leaves are then subjected to a process that isolates the biflavones, resulting in a concentrated mixture that can be incorporated into various cosmetic formulations.
While there are other antioxidant ingredients used in cosmetics, such as Vitamin C and E, Ginkgo Biflavones stands out due to its unique composition. The specific combination of sciadopitysin, bilobetin, ginkgetin, and isoginkgetin offers a unique antioxidant profile that is not found in other ingredients. This makes Ginkgo Biflavones a unique and valuable addition to cosmetic products.
Ginkgo Biflavones is typically used in a variety of cosmetic products due to its versatile benefits. It is commonly found in skincare products like moisturizers and serums, where it works to protect the skin from oxidative stress and environmental damage. Its antioxidant properties make it a valuable ingredient in anti-aging products, where it can help to combat the signs of aging and promote a more youthful appearance.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Ginkgo Biflavones:
Antioxidant Properties
Ginkgo Biflavones, as an antioxidant, plays a significant role in protecting the skin from harmful free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause damage to the skin cells, leading to premature aging and skin dullness. The antioxidant properties of Ginkgo Biflavones help to neutralize these free radicals, thereby preventing skin damage and maintaining the skin’s youthful appearance. This means that products containing this ingredient can help to keep your skin looking fresh and vibrant.
Skin Protecting
Another official function of Ginkgo Biflavones is its skin-protecting ability. This means that it can help to shield the skin from environmental stressors like UV rays and pollution. By forming a protective barrier on the skin, Ginkgo Biflavones can help to prevent these harmful factors from causing damage to the skin. This can result in healthier, more resilient skin that is less prone to damage and aging.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Ginkgo Biflavones. There may be other potential benefits and uses of this ingredient that go beyond these official functions. However, these additional benefits are not officially recognized and therefore, are not discussed in this article.
Safety Profile
Ginkgo Biflavones is not a banned or regulated ingredient in cosmetics. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic products. However, like any ingredient, individual reactions can vary, and it may not be suitable for all skin types.
While Ginkgo Biflavones is not typically associated with allergic reactions, it is always possible for an individual to have a unique sensitivity or allergy. Therefore, potential side effects of topical application of this ingredient could include:
- Redness
- Itching
- Swelling
- Rash
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – there is currently limited data on the safety of topical use of Ginkgo Biflavones during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional before using products containing this ingredient during these periods.
Adverse reactions to Ginkgo Biflavones are not common, but as with any new skincare product, it is 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, using sources including the CosIng (Cosmetic Ingredient Database – by the European Commission), the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA), as well as other various publicly available sources.
