What is Picrasma Quassioides Fruit Extract?
Picrasma Quassioides Fruit Extract is a natural ingredient derived from the fruit of the Picrasma quassioides tree, a member of the Simaroubaceae family. It is also known by other names such as Niutouguo extract or Bitterwood extract. The extract is rich in various bioactive compounds, including alkaloids and quassinoids, which are known for their potent antimicrobial and skin conditioning properties.
The use of Picrasma quassioides in traditional medicine dates back centuries, particularly in East Asia. Its bitter fruit was often used to treat various ailments due to its antimicrobial properties. Over time, the cosmetic industry began to recognize the potential of this fruit extract, incorporating it into various skincare products to harness its skin conditioning benefits.
The extraction process involves harvesting the fruit of the Picrasma quassioides tree, drying it, and then using a solvent to extract the beneficial compounds. The resulting extract is then incorporated into cosmetic formulations.
While there are other antimicrobial and skin conditioning ingredients available in the market, such as tea tree oil or salicylic acid, Picrasma Quassioides Fruit Extract stands out due to its natural origin and the unique combination of compounds it contains. Unlike some other ingredients, it offers both antimicrobial and skin conditioning benefits, making it a versatile addition to various skincare products.
Typically, you can find Picrasma Quassioides Fruit Extract in a range of skincare products, including moisturizers, serums, and cleansers. Its antimicrobial properties make it particularly beneficial in products designed for acne-prone skin, while its skin conditioning benefits make it a valuable ingredient in products aimed at improving skin texture and hydration.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Picrasma Quassioides Fruit Extract:
Antimicrobial Properties
One of the primary benefits of Picrasma Quassioides Fruit Extract is its antimicrobial properties. In the context of cosmetics, this means that it can help to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and other microorganisms in your skincare products. This is particularly beneficial as it can extend the shelf life of these products and keep them safe for use on your skin. Furthermore, when applied to the skin, it can help to protect against harmful bacteria that can cause skin infections and breakouts.
Skin Conditioning
Another key benefit of Picrasma Quassioides Fruit Extract is its skin conditioning properties. As a skin conditioner, it works to enhance the appearance and feel of your skin. It achieves this by increasing hydration, reducing dryness, and improving the texture of the skin. This can result in smoother, softer, and healthier-looking skin. Whether you have dry, oily, or combination skin, this ingredient can help to balance your skin’s natural oils and maintain its overall health and vitality.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Picrasma Quassioides Fruit 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, should be considered with caution.
Safety Profile
Picrasma Quassioides Fruit 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 Picrasma Quassioides Fruit Extract include:
- Redness
- Itching
- Skin irritation
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – There is currently insufficient data on the safety of Picrasma Quassioides Fruit Extract for topical use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. As such, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for further advice before using products containing this ingredient.
Adverse reactions to Picrasma Quassioides Fruit 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, 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.
