Ingredient review
Clerodendrum Leaf Extract
INCI: CLERODENDRON TRICHOTOMUM LEAF EXTRACT
A gentle botanical extract with antioxidant potential, but research on its cosmetic benefits is still limited.
In plain English
This is an extract made from the leaves of the Clerodendrum trichotomum plant, sometimes called glory bower. In skincare, it's added to products like serums and moisturizers to help protect skin from environmental stress and provide a calming effect. Because it's plant-based, it's generally considered gentle, but there isn't a lot of human research yet to confirm how well it works on skin.
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
Clerodendrum 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 Clerodendrum 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
A natural extract derived from the leaves of Clerodendrum trichotomum, a shrub native to East Asia. It contains various plant compounds like flavonoids and phenolics that are thought to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity.
How it works
The extract is believed to work by donating electrons to neutralize free radicals (unstable molecules that can damage skin cells), thereby reducing oxidative stress. It may also help calm skin by inhibiting certain inflammatory pathways, though the exact mechanisms in topical use are not fully established.
Pros
Gentle antioxidant
Provides a mild shield against free radicals without common irritation, making it suitable for sensitive skin types.
Soothing potential
May help reduce redness or calm skin after exposure to environmental aggressors, based on its anti-inflammatory properties.
Cons and cautions
Limited research
Most evidence comes from lab studies, not human clinical trials, so its real-world benefits on skin are not yet well proven.
Rare allergen risk
As a plant extract, it can cause allergic reactions in a small number of people, especially those with plant allergies.
Best for
- Anyone looking for a gentle antioxidant ingredient
- People with normal to dry skin seeking extra soothing support
Use caution if
- Individuals with known allergies to Clerodendrum species
- Those seeking proven anti-aging results from well-researched ingredients
Usage tips
Safety summary
Clerodendrum trichotomum leaf extract is considered safe for topical use in cosmetics at low concentrations. There are no major safety concerns, but as with any botanical, patch testing is recommended for those with sensitive skin or plant allergies.
Research notes
Current evidence is primarily from in vitro (lab) studies showing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Human clinical trials are lacking, so the ingredient's efficacy in skincare remains promising but unconfirmed.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.1% to 2% in leave-on products
- Regulatory status
- Generally recognized as safe for cosmetic use in the US and EU when used at typical concentrations, but not specifically approved for medical claims.
- Common uses
- Serums, Moisturizers, Face masks
- Environmental note
- Clerodendrum trichotomum is a cultivated shrub; sourcing is generally sustainable, but check for organic or wild-harvest certifications if concerned.
Good to know
- This extract is often found in Korean and Japanese skincare products as a traditional herbal ingredient.
- It is not a common ingredient, so it may be harder to find in mainstream Western brands.
Common questions
What is Clerodendrum Leaf Extract in beauty products?
This is an extract made from the leaves of the Clerodendrum trichotomum plant, sometimes called glory bower. In skincare, it's added to products like serums and moisturizers to help protect skin from environmental stress and provide a calming effect. Because it's plant-based, it's generally considered gentle, but there isn't a lot of human research yet to confirm how well it works on skin.
What does Clerodendrum Leaf Extract do in a beauty product?
The extract is believed to work by donating electrons to neutralize free radicals (unstable molecules that can damage skin cells), thereby reducing oxidative stress. It may also help calm skin by inhibiting certain inflammatory pathways, though the exact mechanisms in topical use are not fully established.
Is Clerodendrum Leaf Extract safe for most people?
Clerodendrum trichotomum leaf extract is considered safe for topical use in cosmetics at low concentrations. There are no major safety concerns, but as with any botanical, patch testing is recommended for those with sensitive skin or plant allergies.
Who should be careful with Clerodendrum Leaf Extract?
Individuals with known allergies to Clerodendrum species Those seeking proven anti-aging results from well-researched ingredients
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.