What is Myricetin?
Myricetin, also known as 3,3′,4,4′,5′,7-hexahydro-2-phenyl-4H-chromen-4-one, is a naturally occurring flavonoid found in a variety of fruits, vegetables, and herbs such as berries, onions, parsley, and red wine. This compound is part of the flavonol subgroup, which also includes compounds like quercetin and kaempferol. Its chemical structure is characterized by a three-ring system, with two phenolic rings attached by a three-carbon bridge.
The use of Myricetin in cosmetics can be traced back to its antioxidant properties. As an antioxidant, it has the ability to neutralize harmful free radicals in the skin, which can cause damage and lead to premature aging. This made it an attractive ingredient for cosmetic manufacturers looking to enhance the protective qualities of their products.
Myricetin is typically extracted from plant sources through a process of solvent extraction and purification. The raw plant material is soaked in a solvent, which draws out the myricetin along with other soluble compounds. The mixture is then filtered and purified to isolate the myricetin.
While Myricetin shares some similarities with other flavonoids used in cosmetics, such as its antioxidant properties, it stands out due to its additional skin conditioning function. This means that not only does it protect the skin, but it also helps to keep it soft and smooth by maintaining the skin’s natural moisture balance.
Myricetin is typically found in a range of skincare products, including moisturizers and serums. Its antioxidant and skin conditioning properties make it a valuable addition to these products, helping to protect the skin from environmental stressors while also enhancing its overall appearance and feel.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Myricetin:
Antioxidant Properties
Myricetin is officially recognized as an antioxidant. 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 cellular structure of your skin, leading to premature aging and other skin issues. By neutralizing these free radicals, Myricetin can help maintain the health and vitality of your skin.
Skin Conditioning
Another official function of Myricetin is skin conditioning. This means that it can help improve the appearance and feel of your skin. It works by enhancing the skin’s ability to retain moisture, making it feel softer and smoother. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with dry or rough skin, as it can provide a more hydrated and supple skin texture.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Myricetin. 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 covered in this article.
Safety Profile
Myricetin is not a banned or regulated ingredient in cosmetics. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare products. However, as with any ingredient, individual reactions can vary, and it is always recommended to perform a patch test before using a new product widely.
While Myricetin is known for its antioxidant and skin conditioning properties, it is important to be aware of potential side effects. These may include:
- Minor skin irritation
- Redness
- Sensitivity reactions
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – there is currently limited data on the safety of topically applied Myricetin during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for further advice.
Adverse reactions to Myricetin are not common, but they can occur. As always, it is recommended to perform 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, 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.
