Ingredient review
Brucea Amarissima Gall Extract
INCI: Brucea Amarissima Gall Extract
A gentle plant extract with antioxidant potential, but research is still early and benefits are not yet well-established.
In plain English
This ingredient comes from the galls (abnormal plant growths) of the Brucea amarissima tree, which is 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 free radicals (unstable molecules from pollution, UV, and stress). It also has some soothing properties, making it a candidate for calming irritated skin. However, most of the evidence comes from lab studies, not human skin trials, so its real-world effects are still being explored.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is still emerging, so marketing claims deserve extra caution.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- natural
- Evidence
- emerging
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Brucea Amarissima Gall 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 Brucea Amarissima Gall 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
A natural extract derived from the galls of Brucea amarissima, a tree in the Simaroubaceae family. Galls are plant tissue growths that often contain concentrated bioactive compounds. The extract is rich in quassinoids and other phytochemicals with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity.
How it works
In a cosmetic product, Brucea amarissima gall extract works by donating electrons to neutralize free radicals, thereby reducing oxidative stress on the skin. It may also inhibit certain inflammatory pathways, helping to calm redness and irritation. As a skin conditioning agent, it can help maintain the skin's moisture barrier and overall appearance.
Pros
Gentle antioxidant
Provides antioxidant protection without common irritation, making it suitable for sensitive skin types.
Soothing potential
Early research suggests it may help calm redness and inflammation, which is helpful for reactive skin.
Cons and cautions
Limited research
Most evidence comes from lab studies; there are few human trials confirming its benefits in skincare.
Rare allergen risk
As a plant extract, it carries a small risk of allergic reaction, especially for those with plant allergies.
Best for
- Anyone looking for a gentle antioxidant boost
- Those with sensitive or reactive skin seeking soothing ingredients
Use caution if
- Individuals with known allergies to plants in the Simaroubaceae family
Usage tips
Safety summary
Brucea amarissima gall extract is considered safe for topical cosmetic use at typical concentrations. Irritation and allergy are rare but possible. As with any new ingredient, patch testing is recommended.
Research notes
Current evidence is primarily from in vitro (lab) studies showing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Human clinical studies are lacking, so efficacy claims should be viewed with caution.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at 0.1–2% in leave-on products
- Regulatory status
- Generally recognized as safe for cosmetic use in the EU and US, but not specifically approved by the FDA as a drug ingredient.
- Common uses
- Serums, Moisturizers, Soothing treatments
- Environmental note
- Sourced from the Brucea amarissima tree, which is cultivated in parts of Asia. Sustainable harvesting practices are important to protect wild populations.
Good to know
- Brucea amarissima is also known as Brucea javanica and has a history in traditional medicine, but cosmetic use is relatively new.
- The extract is typically produced via solvent extraction to concentrate the active compounds.
Common questions
What is Brucea Amarissima Gall Extract in beauty products?
This ingredient comes from the galls (abnormal plant growths) of the Brucea amarissima tree, which is 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 free radicals (unstable molecules from pollution, UV, and stress). It also has some soothing properties, making it a candidate for calming irritated skin. However, most of the evidence comes from lab studies, not human skin trials, so its real-world effects are still being explored.
What does Brucea Amarissima Gall Extract do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic product, Brucea amarissima gall extract works by donating electrons to neutralize free radicals, thereby reducing oxidative stress on the skin. It may also inhibit certain inflammatory pathways, helping to calm redness and irritation. As a skin conditioning agent, it can help maintain the skin's moisture barrier and overall appearance.
Is Brucea Amarissima Gall Extract safe for most people?
Brucea amarissima gall extract is considered safe for topical cosmetic use at typical concentrations. Irritation and allergy are rare but possible. As with any new ingredient, patch testing is recommended.
Who should be careful with Brucea Amarissima Gall Extract?
Individuals with known allergies to plants in the Simaroubaceae family
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.