What is Sedum Formosanum Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract?
Sedum Formosanum Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract, also known as Stonecrop Extract, is derived from the flowers, leaves, and stems of the Sedum Formosanum plant. This plant is a species of the Crassulaceae family, native to Taiwan. The extract is rich in flavonoids, phenolic acids, and other bioactive compounds that contribute to its antioxidant, skin conditioning, and skin protecting properties.
The use of Sedum Formosanum in skincare is not a new concept. For centuries, various species of Sedum have been used in traditional medicine for their healing and protective properties. It was only in recent years that the cosmetic industry started incorporating this extract into their products, recognizing its potential benefits for skin health.
The extraction process involves harvesting the flowers, leaves, and stems of the Sedum Formosanum plant, then subjecting them to a solvent extraction method. This process helps to isolate the beneficial compounds from the plant material, resulting in a concentrated extract that can be incorporated into various cosmetic formulations.
While there are other plant extracts used in skincare for their antioxidant and skin conditioning properties, Sedum Formosanum Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract stands out for its unique composition. The presence of specific flavonoids and phenolic acids in this extract not only provides antioxidant benefits but also contributes to its skin conditioning and protecting functions. This makes it a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of skincare products.
Typically, you can find Sedum Formosanum Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract in products like moisturizers, serums, and face masks. Its skin conditioning properties make it a valuable addition to moisturizers, helping to keep the skin hydrated and smooth. In serums and face masks, its antioxidant and skin protecting functions can help to combat environmental stressors and maintain the skin’s overall health.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Sedum Formosanum Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract:
Antioxidant
The Sedum Formosanum Flower/Leaf/Stem 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 the extract can help protect your skin from the harmful effects of environmental pollutants and UV radiation, which can lead to premature aging and other skin issues.
Skin Conditioning
Another official function of the Sedum Formosanum Flower/Leaf/Stem 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. This makes it a valuable ingredient in many skincare products, including moisturizers, serums, and lotions.
Skin Protecting
The Sedum Formosanum Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract also serves as a skin protectant. This means that it forms a barrier on the skin’s surface to protect it from external factors that can cause damage, such as harsh weather conditions, pollutants, and irritants. This protective barrier also helps to lock in moisture, keeping the skin hydrated and healthy.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of the Sedum Formosanum Flower/Leaf/Stem 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 should be considered with caution until further research is conducted.
Safety Profile
Sedum Formosanum Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract is not a banned or regulated ingredient in cosmetics. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic products. However, as with any ingredient, individual reactions can vary and it is always recommended to do a patch test before using a product widely.
While it is generally well-tolerated, some potential side effects of topical application of this ingredient may include:
- Minor skin irritation
- Allergic reactions in individuals with plant allergies
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – there is currently insufficient data to definitively state whether Sedum Formosanum Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract is safe for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. As such, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for further advice.
Adverse reactions to this ingredient are not common, but as with any cosmetic ingredient, individual experiences can vary. It is always recommended to perform a patch test before using a product containing Sedum Formosanum Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract widely.
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 the 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.
