Ingredient review
Clerodendrum Trichotomum Extract
INCI: CLERODENDRON TRICHOTOMUM BRANCH/LEAF EXTRACT
A plant extract with promising antioxidant and soothing potential, though research is still early and benefits are not yet well-established in human skin.
In plain English
This is an extract from a flowering shrub called Clerodendrum trichotomum, sometimes known as harlequin glorybower. In skincare, it's used to provide antioxidant protection (helping defend skin from environmental damage) and to calm irritation. However, most of what we know comes from lab studies, not large human trials, so its effects on skin are not fully proven.
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 Trichotomum 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 Trichotomum 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 branches and leaves of the Clerodendrum trichotomum plant, 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's flavonoids and other polyphenols can neutralize free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage skin cells and accelerate aging. It may also reduce the production of inflammatory signals in skin cells, helping to calm redness and irritation. In a product, it works alongside other ingredients to support overall skin health.
Pros
Antioxidant support
Contains flavonoids that can help neutralize free radicals, potentially reducing oxidative stress on skin from pollution and UV exposure.
Soothing potential
Early research suggests it may calm inflammation, which could benefit those with occasional redness or sensitivity.
Cons and cautions
Limited human evidence
Most studies are in test tubes or animals; we don't yet have strong clinical data showing it improves skin appearance or health in people.
Uncommon ingredient
It's not widely used in mainstream products, so finding it in a formula may be rare, and its stability in formulations is less documented.
Best for
- Anyone looking for additional antioxidant support in their routine
- People with normal to combination skin who want a gentle, plant-based ingredient
Use caution if
- Those with known allergies to Clerodendrum species or related plants
Usage tips
Safety summary
Based on limited data, this extract appears to have low irritation and allergy risk for most people. However, because it is not widely studied, caution is advised for those with very sensitive skin or plant allergies. Always patch test.
Research notes
Current evidence is primarily from in vitro (lab) studies showing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. One animal study suggested wound-healing potential. No robust human clinical trials have been published on its cosmetic benefits.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.1% to 2% in leave-on products
- Regulatory status
- Generally recognized as safe for cosmetic use in the EU and US, but not specifically regulated as a drug ingredient.
- Common uses
- Serums, Moisturizers, Toning Lotions
- Environmental note
- Clerodendrum trichotomum is a cultivated shrub; sourcing is typically sustainable, but check for organic or wild-harvested claims if that matters to you.
Good to know
- This extract is sometimes listed with other plant extracts in a blend, so check the full ingredient list for other active components.
- It is not a well-studied ingredient, so treat it as a bonus rather than a primary active.
Common questions
What is Clerodendrum Trichotomum Extract in beauty products?
This is an extract from a flowering shrub called Clerodendrum trichotomum, sometimes known as harlequin glorybower. In skincare, it's used to provide antioxidant protection (helping defend skin from environmental damage) and to calm irritation. However, most of what we know comes from lab studies, not large human trials, so its effects on skin are not fully proven.
What does Clerodendrum Trichotomum Extract do in a beauty product?
The extract's flavonoids and other polyphenols can neutralize free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage skin cells and accelerate aging. It may also reduce the production of inflammatory signals in skin cells, helping to calm redness and irritation. In a product, it works alongside other ingredients to support overall skin health.
Is Clerodendrum Trichotomum Extract safe for most people?
Based on limited data, this extract appears to have low irritation and allergy risk for most people. However, because it is not widely studied, caution is advised for those with very sensitive skin or plant allergies. Always patch test.
Who should be careful with Clerodendrum Trichotomum Extract?
Those with known allergies to Clerodendrum species or related plants
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.