Article last updated: October 15, 2024
Verbascoside is a naturally occurring compound found in a variety of plants, including Verbascum (mullein), olive leaves, and certain species of the Lamiaceae family. It is also referred to as acteoside or kusaginin in some contexts. This polyphenolic glycoside is renowned for its potent antioxidant properties, which make it a valuable ingredient in the cosmetic industry.
The history of verbascoside in cosmetics is relatively recent, although its use in traditional medicine dates back centuries. Historically, plants containing verbascoside were used for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. As scientific research advanced, the compound’s potential benefits for skin health became more apparent, leading to its incorporation into modern skincare formulations.
Verbascoside is typically extracted from plant sources through a process involving solvent extraction and purification. The plant material is first dried and ground, then subjected to a solvent such as ethanol or methanol to dissolve the active compounds. The resulting solution is filtered and concentrated, followed by further purification steps to isolate verbascoside in its pure form. This meticulous process ensures that the final product retains its efficacy and safety for cosmetic use.
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized cosmetic benefits and uses of Verbascoside:
Verbascoside is known for its antioxidant properties. This means it helps to neutralize free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can cause damage to your skin cells. By combating these free radicals, Verbascoside can help to prevent premature aging, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and maintain overall skin health.
Another key benefit of Verbascoside is its bleaching effect. This doesn’t mean it will bleach your skin like a harsh chemical. Instead, it helps to lighten hyperpigmentation and dark spots, giving your skin a more even tone. This can be particularly beneficial for those dealing with sun spots, age spots, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from acne.
Verbascoside also acts as a chelating agent. In simple terms, this means it binds to metal ions, which can be harmful to the skin. These metal ions can come from various sources, including pollution and tap water. By binding to these ions, Verbascoside helps to protect your skin from potential damage and irritation.
Lastly, Verbascoside has skin-protecting properties. This means it helps to shield your skin from environmental stressors like UV radiation and pollution. By forming a protective barrier, it helps to keep your skin healthy and resilient, reducing the risk of damage and irritation.
Note: the listed benefits above are exclusively based on the officially recognized and defined functions of the ingredient, as documented by the International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI).
Verbascoside is generally considered safe for topical application in cosmetic products. However, like any ingredient, it may cause side effects in some individuals. Here are some potential side effects of using products containing Verbascoside:
Regarding individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding, data and research on the topical usage of Verbascoside during pregnancy are lacking. Therefore, it is recommended that pregnant or breastfeeding women consult a healthcare professional for further advice before using products containing this ingredient.
Adverse reactions to Verbascoside are relatively uncommon, but they can occur. To minimize the risk of an adverse reaction, it is advisable to conduct a patch test before widespread usage.
Verbascoside has a comedogenic rating of 1, which means it is very unlikely to clog pores. This makes it a suitable ingredient for people who are prone to acne, blemishes, or breakouts.
