What is Hydrolyzed Verbascum Thapsus Flower?
Hydrolyzed Verbascum Thapsus Flower, also known as Hydrolyzed Mullein, is a cosmetic ingredient derived from the flowers of Verbascum thapsus, a plant species in the Scrophulariaceae family. This plant, commonly known as the Great Mullein or Common Mullein, is native to Europe, northern Africa, and Asia and has been introduced in the Americas and Australia.
The use of Verbascum thapsus in cosmetic products has a long history. Its flowers and leaves have been used for centuries in traditional medicine due to their soothing and protective properties. It was only a matter of time before these benefits were harnessed for cosmetic purposes.
The process of creating Hydrolyzed Verbascum Thapsus Flower involves hydrolysis, a chemical breakdown due to reaction with water. This can be achieved through various methods, including the use of acid or enzymes. The resulting hydrolysate is a complex mixture of compounds, including sugars and amino acids, which are beneficial for the skin.
Compared to similar ingredients used for skin protection and antioxidant properties, Hydrolyzed Verbascum Thapsus Flower stands out due to its natural origin and the unique combination of compounds resulting from the hydrolysis process. While many antioxidants and skin-protecting ingredients are synthetically produced, Hydrolyzed Verbascum Thapsus Flower is derived from a plant that has been used for its beneficial properties for centuries.
Typically, Hydrolyzed Verbascum Thapsus Flower is used in a variety of cosmetic products, including moisturizers and serums. Its antioxidant and skin-protecting functions make it a valuable addition to these products, contributing to their ability to nourish, protect, and improve the appearance of the skin.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Hydrolyzed Verbascum Thapsus Flower:
Antioxidant Properties
Hydrolyzed Verbascum Thapsus Flower is recognized for its antioxidant properties. In layman’s terms, this means it can help protect your skin from damage caused by harmful molecules known as free radicals. These free radicals are often a byproduct of environmental stressors like pollution and UV rays. By neutralizing these free radicals, Hydrolyzed Verbascum Thapsus Flower can help maintain the health and vitality of your skin, potentially slowing down the aging process and reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
Skin Protecting Abilities
Another official function of Hydrolyzed Verbascum Thapsus Flower is its skin-protecting abilities. This ingredient can form a protective barrier on the skin’s surface, helping to shield it from environmental aggressors such as pollutants and harsh weather conditions. This protective layer can also help to lock in moisture, preventing skin dryness and maintaining its hydration levels. The result is skin that feels soft, smooth, and well-nourished.
It’s important to note that the benefits listed above are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Hydrolyzed Verbascum Thapsus Flower. There may be other benefits and uses of this ingredient that go beyond the scope of these official functions. However, these additional benefits are not officially recognized and therefore, are not guaranteed.
Safety Profile
Hydrolyzed Verbascum Thapsus Flower is not a banned or regulated ingredient in cosmetics. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic products. However, like any ingredient, it may not be suitable for all skin types and there is always a potential for allergic reactions. It is always recommended to do a patch test before using any new product on a larger area of skin.
Potential side effects of topical application of Hydrolyzed Verbascum Thapsus Flower may include:
- Redness
- Itching
- Skin irritation
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – There is currently a lack of data regarding the safety of Hydrolyzed Verbascum Thapsus Flower for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. As such, it is recommended that you consult a healthcare professional for further advice.
Adverse reactions to Hydrolyzed Verbascum Thapsus Flower are not common, but they can occur. As previously mentioned, it is always a good idea to do a patch test before using any new product on a larger area of skin.
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 whose sources include 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.
