What is Palmitoyl Grapevine Shoot Extract?
Palmitoyl Grapevine Shoot Extract, also known as Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Vine Extract, is a cosmetic ingredient derived from the shoots of the grapevine plant (Vitis vinifera L.). This extract is the result of a reaction between grapevine shoot extract and hexadecanoyl chloride, a long-chain fatty acid. The grapevine plant, a species native to the Mediterranean region, has been cultivated for thousands of years for its fruit, but it’s only in recent decades that the cosmetic industry has begun to harness the potential of its shoots.
The process of creating Palmitoyl Grapevine Shoot Extract involves harvesting the young shoots of the grapevine, which are then processed and reacted with hexadecanoyl chloride. This reaction results in a compound that combines the antioxidant properties of the grapevine with the skin-protecting qualities of the fatty acid.
Similar ingredients used for the same purposes include other plant-derived antioxidants, such as green tea extract or vitamin E. However, Palmitoyl Grapevine Shoot Extract stands out due to its dual function as both an antioxidant and a skin-protecting agent. This is largely due to the unique combination of grapevine extract and hexadecanoyl chloride, which together offer a broader range of benefits for the skin.
Palmitoyl Grapevine Shoot Extract is typically used in a variety of skincare products, including moisturizers and serums. Its antioxidant properties make it a popular choice for products aimed at protecting the skin from environmental stressors, while its skin-protecting function makes it a valuable ingredient in products designed to nourish and protect the skin’s barrier.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Palmitoyl Grapevine Shoot Extract:
Antioxidant Properties
Palmitoyl Grapevine Shoot Extract is known for its potent antioxidant properties. In layman’s terms, antioxidants are substances that help protect our skin cells from damage. They do this by neutralizing harmful free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can cause damage to our cells. This damage can lead to premature aging and other skin issues. By incorporating products with Palmitoyl Grapevine Shoot Extract into your skincare routine, you’re giving your skin a helping hand in fighting off these damaging free radicals.
Skin Protecting Abilities
Another official function of Palmitoyl Grapevine Shoot Extract is its ability to protect the skin. This means that it forms a barrier on the skin’s surface to shield it from environmental stressors such as pollution, harsh weather conditions, and UV radiation. This protective barrier helps to maintain the skin’s overall health and appearance, preventing dryness, dullness, and other signs of damage. It’s like providing your skin with its own personal bodyguard.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Palmitoyl Grapevine Shoot Extract. There may be other benefits and uses of this ingredient that go beyond these official functions. However, as consumers, it’s crucial to be aware of the proven benefits to avoid being misled by brands and manufacturers.
Safety Profile
Palmitoyl Grapevine Shoot Extract is not a banned or regulated ingredient in cosmetics. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare and cosmetic products. However, as with any ingredient, individual reactions can vary and it may not be suitable for all skin types.
While it is not known to be a common allergen, there is always a potential for allergic reactions or skin irritation. 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 Palmitoyl Grapevine Shoot Extract may include:
- Redness
- Itching
- Skin irritation
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – there is currently insufficient data on the safety of topical use of Palmitoyl Grapevine Shoot Extract during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional before using any new skincare or cosmetic products during these times.
Adverse reactions to Palmitoyl Grapevine Shoot Extract are not common, but it is always recommended 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, 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.
