Ingredient review
Cedrela Odorata Wood Extract
INCI: CEDRELA ODORATA WOOD EXTRACT
A gentle botanical extract with antioxidant and astringent properties, but research on its skincare benefits is still emerging.
In plain English
Cedrela Odorata Wood Extract comes from the wood of the Spanish cedar tree. In skincare, it's used mainly for its antioxidant effects, which help protect skin from environmental damage, and as a mild astringent that can temporarily tighten pores. It's a gentle ingredient, but there isn't a lot of research yet on how well it works compared to more studied antioxidants.
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
Cedrela Odorata Wood 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 Cedrela Odorata Wood 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 wood of Cedrela odorata, a tree native to Central and South America. The extract contains various plant compounds like flavonoids and tannins that give it antioxidant and astringent activity.
How it works
The flavonoids in the extract help neutralize free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage skin cells and accelerate aging. The tannins provide a mild astringent effect, meaning they can temporarily tighten the skin's surface and reduce the appearance of pores.
Pros
Gentle antioxidant
Provides free radical protection without common irritation, making it suitable for sensitive skin types.
Mild pore-tightening effect
The astringent properties can temporarily reduce the appearance of pores, giving skin a smoother texture.
Cons and cautions
Limited research
There are few peer-reviewed studies on Cedrela Odorata Wood Extract specifically for topical skincare, so its benefits are less established than more common antioxidants.
Potential allergen
As a wood extract, it may cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to cedar or related tree species, though this is rare.
Best for
- Those looking for a gentle antioxidant ingredient
- People with normal to oily skin who want a mild astringent
Use caution if
- Individuals with known allergies to cedar or related tree species
Usage tips
Safety summary
Cedrela Odorata Wood Extract is considered safe for topical use at typical cosmetic concentrations. Irritation and allergy are rare, but patch testing is recommended for those with tree allergies.
Research notes
Research on Cedrela Odorata Wood Extract in skincare is limited. Most evidence comes from traditional use and preliminary studies on its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. More clinical studies are needed to confirm its efficacy.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at 0.1% to 2% in leave-on products
- Regulatory status
- Generally recognized as safe for cosmetic use in the EU and US, with no specific restrictions at typical use levels.
- Common uses
- Facial toners, Serums, Moisturizers
- Environmental note
- Cedrela odorata is a sustainably harvested tree species in many regions, but check for certifications if you are concerned about sourcing.
Good to know
- Cedrela odorata is also known as Spanish cedar, but it is not a true cedar; it belongs to the mahogany family.
- The extract is often used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties, though this is not a cosmetic claim.
Common questions
What is Cedrela Odorata Wood Extract in beauty products?
Cedrela Odorata Wood Extract comes from the wood of the Spanish cedar tree. In skincare, it's used mainly for its antioxidant effects, which help protect skin from environmental damage, and as a mild astringent that can temporarily tighten pores. It's a gentle ingredient, but there isn't a lot of research yet on how well it works compared to more studied antioxidants.
What does Cedrela Odorata Wood Extract do in a beauty product?
The flavonoids in the extract help neutralize free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage skin cells and accelerate aging. The tannins provide a mild astringent effect, meaning they can temporarily tighten the skin's surface and reduce the appearance of pores.
Is Cedrela Odorata Wood Extract safe for most people?
Cedrela Odorata Wood Extract is considered safe for topical use at typical cosmetic concentrations. Irritation and allergy are rare, but patch testing is recommended for those with tree allergies.
Who should be careful with Cedrela Odorata Wood Extract?
Individuals with known allergies to cedar or related tree species
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.