What is Sanguisorba Minor Extract?
Sanguisorba Minor Extract, also known as Salad Burnet Extract, is derived from the aerial parts of the Sanguisorba minor plant, a member of the Rosaceae family. This perennial plant is native to the Mediterranean region and is known for its rich composition of chemical compounds including flavonoids, tannins, and triterpenes, which are believed to contribute to its beneficial properties.
The use of Sanguisorba minor dates back to ancient times, where it was used for its medicinal properties. However, its introduction into the cosmetic industry is relatively recent. The extract is obtained through a process of steam distillation, where the aerial parts of the plant are subjected to high temperatures to release the essential oils and other beneficial compounds. This extract is then used in various cosmetic formulations.
While there are other plant extracts used in cosmetics for their antioxidant and skin conditioning properties, Sanguisorba Minor Extract stands out due to its unique composition. Unlike some other extracts, it contains a high concentration of tannins, which are known for their astringent and anti-inflammatory properties. This makes it particularly beneficial for oily and acne-prone skin types.
Sanguisorba Minor Extract is typically used in a variety of cosmetic products due to its versatile benefits. It can be found in moisturizers, serums, and even in some makeup products. Its antioxidant properties make it a popular choice for anti-aging products, while its skin conditioning benefits make it suitable for products aimed at improving skin texture and appearance.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Sanguisorba Minor Extract:
Antioxidant Properties
Sanguisorba Minor Extract is known for its antioxidant properties. In layman’s 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 Sanguisorba Minor Extract can help protect your skin from damage caused by environmental factors such as pollution and UV rays. This can help keep your skin looking youthful and healthy.
Skin Conditioning
Another official function of Sanguisorba Minor Extract is skin conditioning. This means that it helps to make the skin feel smoother, softer and more supple. It achieves this by increasing the skin’s hydration, reducing roughness, and improving the overall appearance of the skin. So, if you’re looking for a skincare ingredient that can help improve the texture and appearance of your skin, Sanguisorba Minor Extract could be a good option.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Sanguisorba Minor Extract. There may be other benefits and uses of this ingredient that go beyond these official functions. However, these additional benefits are not officially recognized and therefore, are not discussed in this article.
Safety Profile
Sanguisorba Minor 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 is always recommended to conduct a patch test before widespread usage.
As for its allergenic potential, Sanguisorba Minor Extract is not commonly known to cause allergic reactions. However, individuals with sensitive skin or those who are allergic to plants in the Rosaceae family may experience irritation.
Potential side effects of topical application of this ingredient may include:
- Minor skin irritation
- Redness
- Dryness
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – there is currently insufficient data on the safety of topically applied Sanguisorba Minor Extract during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for further advice.
Adverse reactions to Sanguisorba Minor Extract are not common. However, as mentioned earlier, it is always recommended to conduct 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.
