What is Picea Mariana Bark Extract?
Picea Mariana Bark Extract, also known as Black Spruce Bark Extract, is a natural ingredient derived from the bark of the Picea mariana tree, a species of spruce native to North America. This tree belongs to the Pinaceae family and is known for its resilience and adaptability, thriving even in harsh conditions. The extract is rich in antioxidants and other beneficial compounds, including phenolic acids and flavonoids, which contribute to its skin conditioning properties.
The use of Picea mariana in traditional medicine dates back centuries, with indigenous communities using it for various therapeutic purposes. However, its incorporation into cosmetic products is a relatively recent development. The extract is obtained through a process of steam distillation, where the bark of the tree is heated to release its essential oils. These oils are then collected and used in various skincare formulations.
While there are other bark extracts used in cosmetics, such as pine bark and birch bark extracts, Picea Mariana Bark Extract stands out due to its unique antioxidant profile. Its high concentration of specific antioxidants helps to protect the skin from environmental stressors, making it a popular choice for skincare products aimed at combating the signs of aging.
Typically, Picea Mariana Bark Extract is found in a variety of cosmetic products, including moisturizers, serums, and anti-aging creams. Its skin conditioning properties make it a beneficial addition to these products, helping to improve skin texture and tone. Furthermore, its antioxidant properties make it a valuable ingredient in products designed to protect the skin from environmental damage.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Picea Mariana Bark Extract:
Antioxidant Properties
Picea Mariana Bark Extract is recognized for its antioxidant properties. In the context of cosmetics, this means that it can help 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. By neutralizing these free radicals, Picea Mariana Bark Extract can help maintain the health and vitality of the skin, keeping it looking youthful and radiant.
Skin Conditioning
Another official function of Picea Mariana Bark Extract is its skin conditioning properties. This means that it can help improve the appearance and feel of the skin. It works by enhancing the skin’s ability to retain moisture, thereby preventing dryness and flakiness. This can result in smoother, softer, and more supple skin. Furthermore, by promoting healthier skin, it can also help improve the effectiveness of other skincare products.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Picea Mariana Bark Extract. 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, may vary from product to product and individual to individual.
Safety Profile
Picea Mariana Bark 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.
Some potential side effects of topical application of Picea Mariana Bark Extract 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 Picea Mariana Bark Extract during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional before using products containing this ingredient.
While adverse reactions to Picea Mariana Bark Extract are not common, 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 performed 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.
