What is Lapachol?
Lapachol is a naturally occurring organic compound extracted from the bark of the Lapacho tree, also known as the Pau d’Arco tree, predominantly found in South America. It is also known by other names such as Lapacho, Taheebo, and Ipe Roxo. Chemically, it is classified as a naphthoquinone, which is a type of compound known for its potent antioxidant properties.
The use of Lapachol dates back to ancient times when indigenous tribes of South America used the Lapacho tree’s bark for its medicinal properties. It was only in the late 19th century that it was introduced to the western world and eventually found its way into cosmetic products due to its skin-protecting and antioxidant properties.
The extraction of Lapachol involves a process of steam distillation of the Lapacho tree’s inner bark. The bark is first dried and then subjected to high-pressure steam to extract the essential oils, which contain Lapachol. This process ensures that the beneficial properties of Lapachol are preserved while unwanted elements are eliminated.
While there are other antioxidant and skin-protecting ingredients like Vitamin C and E, Lapachol stands out due to its natural origin and the unique properties of naphthoquinones. Unlike synthetic antioxidants, Lapachol is less likely to cause skin irritation, making it a preferred choice for people with sensitive skin.
Lapachol is typically used in a variety of cosmetic products due to its versatile benefits. It is commonly found in skin care products like moisturizers and serums due to its ability to protect the skin from environmental stressors and combat oxidative damage. Its antioxidant properties also make it a popular ingredient in anti-aging products as it can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Lapachol:
Antioxidant Properties
Lapachol is recognized for its antioxidant properties. In the context of cosmetics, this means that it can help protect your skin from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can harm the structural integrity of your skin cells, leading to premature aging and skin damage. By neutralizing these harmful molecules, Lapachol can help maintain the health and vitality of your skin.
Skin Protecting
Another official function of Lapachol is its skin-protecting capabilities. This ingredient can form a protective barrier on the surface of your skin, shielding it from environmental stressors such as pollution and UV rays. This protective layer can also help to lock in moisture, keeping your skin hydrated and supple.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Lapachol. 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 should be considered with caution until further research is conducted.
Safety Profile
Lapachol is not a banned or regulated ingredient in cosmetics. However, it’s always important to consider individual skin sensitivities and potential allergenic reactions when using products containing this ingredient.
Potential side effects of topical application of Lapachol include:
- Redness
- Itching
- Skin irritation
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – While there is no specific data suggesting that Lapachol is harmful during pregnancy or breastfeeding, due to a lack of comprehensive studies, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional before using products containing this ingredient.
Adverse reactions to Lapachol are not common, but as with any skincare product, it’s recommended to do a patch test before widespread usage. This involves applying a small amount of the product to a discreet area of skin and waiting 24 hours to see if any reaction occurs.
This ingredient analysis has been commissioned by Truth In Skincare (TiS), an independent industry regulator. The information provided has been reviewed by a TiS-appointed industry consultant, with 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.
