Ingredient review
Berchemia Lineata Leaf Extract
INCI: Berchemia Lineata Leaf Extract
A gentle plant extract with antioxidant potential, but research is limited and benefits are not yet well-established in human skin.
In plain English
Berchemia lineata leaf extract comes from a shrub native to parts of Asia. In skincare, it's used mainly for its antioxidant activity, meaning it may help protect skin from damage caused by environmental stressors like pollution and UV light. It also has some soothing properties, which could calm minor irritation. However, most of the evidence comes from lab studies, not human trials, so its real-world effects are not fully proven.
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Berchemia Lineata Leaf Extract is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Berchemia Lineata Leaf Extract.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
emergingThe ingredient may be promising, but claims should be treated more cautiously.
What it is
An extract derived from the leaves of Berchemia lineata, a plant in the buckthorn family. It contains flavonoids and other polyphenolic compounds that are thought to provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.
How it works
The flavonoids in the extract can neutralize free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage skin cells and accelerate aging. By donating electrons to these free radicals, the extract helps prevent oxidative stress. Its anti-inflammatory action may also reduce redness and irritation by calming the skin's immune response.
Pros
Gentle antioxidant
Provides free-radical protection without common irritation, making it suitable for sensitive skin types.
Soothing potential
May help calm redness and minor inflammation, offering a dual benefit in one ingredient.
Cons and cautions
Limited human evidence
Most studies are lab-based; there is little clinical data showing clear benefits on human skin.
Rare allergy risk
As a plant extract, it can cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to related botanical families.
Best for
- Anyone looking for a gentle antioxidant ingredient
- People with sensitive or easily irritated skin who want mild soothing support
Use caution if
- Those with known allergies to plants in the buckthorn family (Rhamnaceae)
Usage tips
Safety summary
Berchemia lineata leaf extract is considered safe for topical use with a low risk of irritation. As with any plant extract, patch testing is recommended for those with very sensitive skin or plant allergies.
Research notes
Research is preliminary. In vitro studies show antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, but there are no published human clinical trials evaluating its effects on skin aging, hydration, or other cosmetic endpoints.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.1% to 2%
- Regulatory status
- Generally recognized as safe for cosmetic use in the US and EU when used as intended. No specific restrictions are in place.
- Common uses
- Serums, Moisturizers, Soothing creams
- Environmental note
- Sourced from a shrub that grows in East and Southeast Asia. Sustainable harvesting practices are not widely documented for this specific species.
Good to know
- Berchemia lineata is also known as little-leaf supplejack and has traditional medicinal uses in some Asian cultures.
- This extract is often used at low concentrations (under 2%) as a supporting antioxidant rather than a primary active.
Common questions
What is Berchemia Lineata Leaf Extract in beauty products?
Berchemia lineata leaf extract comes from a shrub native to parts of Asia. In skincare, it's used mainly for its antioxidant activity, meaning it may help protect skin from damage caused by environmental stressors like pollution and UV light. It also has some soothing properties, which could calm minor irritation. However, most of the evidence comes from lab studies, not human trials, so its real-world effects are not fully proven.
What does Berchemia Lineata Leaf Extract do in a beauty product?
The flavonoids in the extract can neutralize free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage skin cells and accelerate aging. By donating electrons to these free radicals, the extract helps prevent oxidative stress. Its anti-inflammatory action may also reduce redness and irritation by calming the skin's immune response.
Is Berchemia Lineata Leaf Extract safe for most people?
Berchemia lineata leaf extract is considered safe for topical use with a low risk of irritation. As with any plant extract, patch testing is recommended for those with very sensitive skin or plant allergies.
Who should be careful with Berchemia Lineata Leaf Extract?
Those with known allergies to plants in the buckthorn family (Rhamnaceae)
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.