What is Hydrolyzed Lycium Barbarum Fruit Extract?
Hydrolyzed Lycium Barbarum Fruit Extract, also known as Goji Berry Extract, is a cosmetic ingredient derived from the fruit of the Lycium Barbarum plant, commonly known as the Goji Berry plant. This plant, native to China, has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine due to its high antioxidant content and potential health benefits. The extract is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, including Vitamin C, carotenoids, and flavonoids.
The use of Hydrolyzed Lycium Barbarum Fruit Extract in cosmetic products can be traced back to ancient times when it was used for its skin rejuvenating and healing properties. Today, it is recognized for its antioxidant and skin-protecting functions and is commonly found in a variety of skincare products.
The process of creating Hydrolyzed Lycium Barbarum Fruit Extract involves the hydrolysis of an extract of the Goji Berry fruit. This can be achieved through the use of acid, enzymes, or other hydrolysis methods. The resulting hydrolysate is a water-soluble extract that can be easily incorporated into cosmetic formulations.
While there are other fruit extracts used in cosmetics, Hydrolyzed Lycium Barbarum Fruit Extract stands out due to its high antioxidant content. Compared to other fruit extracts, it has a higher concentration of Vitamin C and carotenoids, which are known for their antioxidant properties and ability to protect the skin from environmental stressors.
Hydrolyzed Lycium Barbarum Fruit Extract is typically used in a variety of skincare products due to its skin-protecting and antioxidant properties. You can find this ingredient in products such as moisturizers, serums, and anti-aging creams. Its ability to protect the skin and combat oxidative stress makes it a popular choice for skincare formulations aimed at promoting skin health and vitality.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Hydrolyzed Lycium Barbarum Fruit Extract:
Antioxidant Properties
One of the primary benefits of Hydrolyzed Lycium Barbarum Fruit Extract is its antioxidant properties. In the context of cosmetics, antioxidants are substances that can prevent or slow damage to cells caused by free radicals, unstable molecules that the body produces as a reaction to environmental and other pressures. This means that products containing this ingredient can help protect your skin from the damaging effects of things like pollution and UV rays, which can lead to premature aging. In simpler terms, it helps keep your skin looking young and healthy.
Skin Protecting
Another key function of Hydrolyzed Lycium Barbarum Fruit Extract is skin protection. This ingredient forms a protective barrier on the skin’s surface, which helps to maintain its integrity against external aggressors such as pollutants and harsh weather conditions. This means that it can help keep your skin looking and feeling its best, even in challenging environments. In layman’s terms, it’s like a shield for your skin, helping to keep it safe from things that could harm it.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Hydrolyzed Lycium Barbarum Fruit Extract. There may be other benefits and uses that go beyond the scope of these official functions, but these are the primary ones that you can expect when using products containing this ingredient.
Safety Profile
Hydrolyzed Lycium Barbarum Fruit 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. It is always recommended to conduct a patch test before using a new product containing this ingredient.
While Hydrolyzed Lycium Barbarum Fruit Extract is generally well-tolerated, potential side effects of topical application may include:
- Minor skin irritation
- Allergic reactions in individuals with sensitivity to the Lycium Barbarum fruit
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – There is currently insufficient data on the safety of topical use of Hydrolyzed Lycium Barbarum Fruit Extract during pregnancy or breastfeeding. As such, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional before using products containing this ingredient during these periods.
Adverse reactions to Hydrolyzed Lycium Barbarum Fruit Extract are not common, but it is always recommended to conduct a patch test before widespread usage to ensure no adverse reaction occurs.
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 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.
