What is Uncaria Tomentosa Bark Extract?
Uncaria Tomentosa Bark Extract, also known as Cat’s Claw Bark Extract, is derived from the bark of the Uncaria tomentosa, a vine native to Central and South America. This plant species is rich in several types of alkaloids, tannins, and flavonoids, which are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
The use of Uncaria tomentosa dates back to the Inca civilization, where it was used for its medicinal properties. Over time, its benefits were recognized in the cosmetic industry, leading to its incorporation in various skincare products. The extraction process involves soaking the bark in water or alcohol, then distilling the mixture to obtain the extract.
Compared to similar ingredients like green tea extract or grape seed extract, Uncaria Tomentosa Bark Extract stands out due to its unique combination of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. While all these ingredients offer antioxidant properties, Uncaria tomentosa also provides skin-protecting benefits, making it a versatile addition to skincare formulations.
Uncaria Tomentosa Bark Extract is typically used in a variety of cosmetic products, including moisturizers, serums, and anti-aging creams. Its skin conditioning and protecting properties make it a valuable ingredient in products designed to nourish the skin and combat the signs of aging.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Uncaria Tomentosa Bark Extract:
Antioxidant
Uncaria Tomentosa Bark Extract serves as an antioxidant in cosmetic products. This means it helps protect the skin from damage caused by harmful molecules known as free radicals. These free radicals are often a result of environmental stressors like pollution and UV rays. By neutralizing these free radicals, Uncaria Tomentosa Bark Extract helps to maintain the health and vitality of the skin, preventing premature aging and maintaining a youthful appearance.
Skin Conditioning
Another key benefit of Uncaria Tomentosa Bark Extract is its skin conditioning properties. As a skin conditioner, it helps to keep the skin hydrated, soft, and smooth. It works by forming a barrier on the skin’s surface, which helps to retain moisture. This can lead to an improved skin texture and an overall healthier appearance. Whether you have dry, oily, or combination skin, this ingredient can help to balance your skin’s moisture levels and keep it looking its best.
Skin Protecting
Uncaria Tomentosa Bark Extract also has skin protecting properties. This means it helps to form a protective barrier on the skin’s surface, shielding it from environmental stressors such as pollution, harsh weather conditions, and harmful UV rays. This protective barrier can help to prevent skin damage and keep your skin looking healthy and radiant.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Uncaria Tomentosa Bark Extract. There may be other benefits and uses of this ingredient that go beyond the scope of these official functions. However, these are the direct benefits that you can expect when this ingredient is included in your cosmetic products.
Safety Profile
Uncaria Tomentosa Bark 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 do a patch test before using any new product.
While Uncaria Tomentosa Bark Extract is known for its skin conditioning and protective properties, it also has the potential to cause certain side effects. These may include:
- Minor skin irritation
- Allergic reactions in people with sensitive skin
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – there is currently limited data on the safety of topical use of Uncaria Tomentosa Bark Extract during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional before using products containing this ingredient during these periods.
Adverse reactions to Uncaria Tomentosa Bark Extract are not common, but it’s always a good idea to do a patch test before using any new product on a larger area of skin. This can help identify any potential sensitivity or allergic 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 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.
