What is Quercus Robur Bud Extract?
Quercus Robur Bud Extract, also known as English Oak Bud Extract, is derived from the buds of the English Oak tree, scientifically known as Quercus robur L., belonging to the Fagaceae family. This extract is rich in phenolic compounds, particularly tannins, which are known for their potent antioxidant properties.
The use of Quercus Robur Bud Extract in cosmetics has historical roots. The English Oak tree has been revered for centuries for its medicinal properties. The extract from its buds was traditionally used for its healing and anti-inflammatory properties. It was only in recent years that the cosmetic industry began to harness these benefits, incorporating the extract into various skincare products.
The extraction process involves harvesting the buds of the English Oak tree, which are then dried and soaked in a solvent, usually water or alcohol. The solvent helps to draw out the beneficial compounds from the buds, resulting in a concentrated extract that is ready for use in cosmetic formulations.
Quercus Robur Bud Extract serves a similar function to other antioxidant-rich botanical extracts used in skincare, such as green tea or grape seed extract. However, it stands out for its unique source and the high concentration of tannins it contains, which offer potent antioxidant and skin conditioning benefits.
Typically, you can find Quercus Robur Bud Extract in a variety of skincare products, including moisturizers, serums, and anti-aging formulations. Its antioxidant properties make it a valuable ingredient in products designed to protect the skin from environmental stressors, while its skin conditioning benefits help to improve the skin’s texture and appearance.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Quercus Robur Bud Extract:
Antioxidant Properties
Quercus Robur Bud Extract is known for its antioxidant properties. In simple terms, antioxidants are substances that can prevent or slow damage to cells caused by free radicals, which are unstable molecules that the body produces as a reaction to environmental and other pressures. In the context of skincare, this means that Quercus Robur Bud Extract can help protect your skin from damage caused by environmental factors such as pollution and UV radiation. This can result in healthier, more youthful-looking skin.
Skin Conditioning
Another official function of Quercus Robur Bud Extract is skin conditioning. This means that it helps to make the skin feel smoother, softer and more supple. It achieves this by enhancing the appearance and feel of dry or damaged skin by reducing flaking and restoring suppleness. So, if you’re looking for a skincare ingredient that can help improve the texture and appearance of your skin, Quercus Robur Bud Extract could be a good option.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Quercus Robur Bud Extract. There may be other benefits and uses of this ingredient that go beyond the scope of these official functions. However, as consumers, it’s crucial to be aware of the proven benefits and not be misled by unsupported claims.
Safety Profile
Quercus Robur Bud Extract is not a banned or regulated ingredient in cosmetics. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare and beauty products. However, as with any ingredient, individual reactions can vary and it is always recommended to do a patch test before using a new product widely.
While Quercus Robur Bud Extract is known for its antioxidant and skin conditioning properties, it is important to be aware of its potential side effects. These 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 topically applied Quercus Robur Bud Extract during pregnancy or breastfeeding. As such, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for further advice.
Adverse reactions to Quercus Robur Bud Extract are not common, but they can occur. It is always recommended to do a patch test before using any new product to ensure you do not have an 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.
