Arctium Lappa Leaf Extract

INCI: ARCTIUM LAPPA LEAF EXTRACT

A plant extract traditionally used to support skin quality and resilience

Best For Skin Types

All, Sensitive, Combination

Addresses

Sensitivity, Redness, Dull skin

Usage Frequency

Daily

What Is Arctium Lappa Leaf Extract?

Arctium lappa leaf extract comes from the leaves of the burdock plant, a botanical used for centuries across traditional Chinese medicine, European and North American herbalism. The extract contains polyphenolic compounds and antioxidants derived from the leaf material.

In skincare formulations, it functions as a skin conditioning agent. The traditional use of burdock across multiple cultures suggests a history of supporting skin health, though modern skincare research on the leaf extract specifically remains limited compared to other botanical ingredients.

How It Works

Burdock leaf extract contains polyphenolic compounds that exhibit antioxidant properties. These compounds may help neutralise free radicals and reduce oxidative damage to skin cells, potentially supporting skin resilience and appearance.

Traditionally, burdock has been attributed with properties that promote circulation to the skin surface and support the skin's natural inflammatory response, though the mechanisms by which leaf extract achieves these effects in modern formulations require further research.

Clinical Evidence & References

Research suggests that burdock leaves contain polyphenols with antioxidant, elastase-inhibitory and tyrosinase-inhibitory activity in laboratory settings. These findings are promising for skin health, though human clinical data specific to burdock leaf extract in skincare products remains limited.

Traditional uses in herbalism and some preliminary case observations suggest potential benefits for inflammatory skin conditions, but robust clinical trials in modern skincare contexts are needed to establish efficacy and optimal usage. The ingredient is best regarded as a supportive botanical rather than a primary treatment agent.

How to Use

Burdock leaf extract is typically found in serums, toners and moisturisers at lower concentrations as part of a broader formula. Use as directed on the product label. It integrates well into most skincare routines and can be layered with other actives, though patch testing is advisable if you have highly reactive skin.

Safety & Precautions

Generally well-tolerated in skincare formulations. Those with allergy to plants in the Asteraceae family (such as ragweed or chrysanthemum) may wish to patch test first, as burdock is botanically related.

Regulatory information

Standardised cosmetic-ingredient identifiers used by regulators.

Show identifiers
INCI Name
ARCTIUM LAPPA LEAF EXTRACT
Function
Skin Conditioning

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