Birch hydroglycerin bark extract

INCI: Glycerin (and) Water (and) Betula alba bark extract

Betula alba bark extract, also known as birch bark extract, is a botanical ingredient derived from the bark of the white birch tree (Betula alba). It is widely used in cosmetics and skincare products for its antioxidant, astringent, and soothing properties.

Components

Triterpenoids
These are a major class of compounds found in birch bark extract, with betulin being a prominent one. Other triterpenoids include lupeol, betulinic acid, oleanolic acid, erythrodiol.
Hydrocarbons
Birch bark extract also contains hydrocarbons like α-santalene, β-trans-bergamotene, and α-trans-bergamotene, along with their epoxy derivatives.  
Flavonoids
These are a type of polyphenol with antioxidant properties. Birch bark extract contains flavonoids like hyperoside, quercetin glycosides, and kaempferol glycosides.
Hydroxycoumarins
Compounds like umbelliferone and esculetin are also present in birch bark extract.
Tannins
These are astringent compounds that can contribute to the extract’s potential skin-soothing properties.
Saponins and Sterols
These compounds are also found in birch bark extract.

Benefits

• anti-inflammatory: calm and soothe irritated skin, reduce redness and swelling, and protect against further damage.
• antibacterial: prevent microbial growth and contamination
• regenerative: revitalizing the skin’s natural functions, promoting deep cellular rejuvenation, boosting collagen production, and enhancing cell turnover
• skin conditioning: improve the skin’s overall health and appearance by enhancing its barrier function, hydration, and texture
• tonic: help to remove impurities and residue from cleansers, restore the skin’s pH balance, and tighten pores
• antioxidant: it helps protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals and environmental stressors.
• astringent: it can help tighten skin pores and reduce oiliness.
• soothing: it can help calm and soothe irritated or sensitive skin.
• skin barrier support: studies suggest it may help reinforce the skin’s natural barrier function.
• anti-aging: by protecting against environmental damage and supporting the skin barrier, it can contribute to a more youthful appearance.

Betula Alba Bark Extract is particularly suitable for ointments, creams and lotions.

In skincare, it’s often used for:

• anti-aging products: To help protect against premature aging.
• Products for oily or acne-prone skin: To help control oil and reduce breakouts.
• Products for sensitive or irritated skin: To help soothe and calm the skin.
• Areas of application are mainly superficial wounds, eczema, sunburn and bedsores.

Important Note: While generally considered safe, birch bark extract can be an astringent, and in high concentrations, it may cause irritation for some individuals, particularly those with very sensitive skin. It’s usually well-tolerated when used in lower concentrations in cosmetic formulations