What is Picea Abies Leaf Cell Extract?
Picea Abies Leaf Cell Extract, also known as Norway Spruce Leaf Cell Extract, is derived from the leaf cells of the Picea Abies tree, a species of spruce native to Northern, Central, and Eastern Europe. This extract is rich in phenolic compounds, particularly lignans and flavonoids, which are known for their antioxidant properties.
The use of Picea Abies Leaf Cell Extract in cosmetics is a relatively recent development, with the ingredient gaining popularity due to its natural origin and potent antioxidant properties. The process of obtaining this extract involves culturing the leaf cells of the Picea Abies tree, then using a solvent extraction method to obtain the beneficial compounds. This process ensures the purity and potency of the extract, making it a highly effective ingredient in skincare products.
While there are other plant-based extracts used in cosmetics for their antioxidant properties, such as green tea extract or grape seed extract, Picea Abies Leaf Cell Extract stands out due to its unique composition. The high concentration of lignans and flavonoids in this extract provides a powerful antioxidant effect, helping to protect the skin from environmental stressors and oxidative damage.
Typically, Picea Abies Leaf Cell Extract is found in a variety of skincare products, including moisturizers, serums, and anti-aging creams. Its antioxidant and skin-protecting functions make it a valuable addition to these products, helping to enhance their overall effectiveness in maintaining skin health and vitality.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Picea Abies Leaf Cell Extract:
Antioxidant Properties
Picea Abies Leaf Cell Extract is recognized for its antioxidant properties. In the context of skincare, antioxidants are vital as they help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause harm to the skin cells, leading to premature aging and other skin issues. The antioxidant properties of Picea Abies Leaf Cell Extract help to neutralize these free radicals, thereby protecting the skin and maintaining its health and vitality.
Skin Protecting
Another official function of Picea Abies Leaf Cell Extract is its skin-protecting capability. This means that the extract can help to form a barrier on the skin’s surface, protecting it from environmental stressors such as pollution, UV rays, and harsh weather conditions. This protective barrier can also help to lock in moisture, preventing the skin from drying out and helping to maintain its hydration levels.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Picea Abies Leaf Cell Extract. There may be other potential 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, may vary between different products and brands.
Safety Profile
Picea Abies Leaf Cell Extract 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.
Potential side effects of topical application of Picea Abies Leaf Cell 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 usage of Picea Abies Leaf Cell Extract during pregnancy or breastfeeding. As such, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for further advice.
Adverse reactions to Picea Abies Leaf Cell Extract are not common, but it is always recommended to perform a patch test before widespread usage to ensure there is no adverse reaction.
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.
