Acer Palmatum Leaf Extract
INCI: ACER PALMATUM LEAF EXTRACT
Also known as: Acer Palmatum Leaf Extract
A plant antioxidant derived from Japanese maple leaves to help protect skin from environmental stress
At a glance
Best For Skin Types
All
Addresses
Usage Frequency
Daily
What Is Acer Palmatum Leaf Extract?
Acer palmatum leaf extract comes from the Japanese maple tree. The extract contains several bioactive compounds, notably vitexin, a flavonoid with antioxidant properties. It is used in skincare primarily for its ability to neutralise free radicals — unstable molecules generated by UV exposure, pollution, and other environmental stressors.
This ingredient functions as an antioxidant, meaning it helps prevent oxidative damage to skin cells. Such damage accumulates over time and contributes to visible signs of ageing, including fine lines, loss of elasticity, and uneven tone.
Benefits for Your Skin
How It Works
Free radicals are produced when skin is exposed to UV rays, pollution, and other environmental factors. These unstable molecules can damage cell membranes and DNA, accelerating visible signs of ageing. Acer palmatum leaf extract, particularly its vitexin content, works by donating electrons to free radicals, stabilising them and preventing further cellular harm.
By interrupting this oxidative cascade, the extract helps maintain skin's structural integrity and may support the skin's natural repair processes.
Clinical Evidence & References
Laboratory research has demonstrated that vitexin, the primary active compound in Acer palmatum leaf extract, can inhibit superoxide radicals in cell-based assays, with studies showing approximately 70% inhibition in controlled conditions. This suggests the extract has measurable antioxidant capacity.
However, most evidence remains in vitro (test-tube) or early-stage. Human clinical data on this specific ingredient in finished skincare products is limited, so it is difficult to specify precisely how effective it is in real-world skincare use or at what concentrations it provides meaningful benefit on skin.
Published Research
How to Use
Acer palmatum leaf extract is typically found in serums, moisturisers, and treatment products. Since it is an antioxidant, it integrates well into morning routines as part of broader sun protection strategies — though it should not replace sunscreen. It can be layered with other actives, though combining multiple antioxidants is often unnecessary and may offer diminishing returns.
Safety & Precautions
Regulatory information
Standardised cosmetic-ingredient identifiers used by regulators.
Show identifiers
- INCI Name
- ACER PALMATUM LEAF EXTRACT
- Function
- Antioxidant
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