Ingredient review
Cordia Leaf Extract
INCI: Cordia Obliqua Leaf Extract
A gentle botanical extract with antioxidant potential, but research on its specific skincare benefits is still limited.
In plain English
Cordia leaf extract comes from a tropical tree sometimes called clammy cherry. In skincare, it's added to provide antioxidants that may help protect skin from environmental stress, and it may have mild soothing effects. Because it's not as widely studied as ingredients like green tea or vitamin C, its benefits are less 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
Cordia 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 Cordia 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 made from the leaves of Cordia obliqua, a tree native to parts of Asia and the Americas. The leaves contain compounds like flavonoids and phenolic acids that can act as antioxidants.
How it works
The extract's antioxidant compounds help neutralize free radicals—unstable molecules that can damage skin cells and accelerate aging. It may also have mild anti-inflammatory activity, which could help calm irritated skin.
Pros
Gentle antioxidant
Provides a mild antioxidant boost without irritation, making it suitable for sensitive or reactive skin.
Natural origin
Derived from a plant source, appealing to consumers who prefer naturally sourced ingredients.
Cons and cautions
Limited evidence
There are very few published studies on Cordia obliqua leaf extract specifically for skincare, so its benefits are not well-established.
Unknown potency
Compared to well-researched antioxidants like vitamin C or ferulic acid, its effectiveness and stability in formulations are not well understood.
Best for
- Anyone looking for a gentle, natural antioxidant
- Sensitive skin types who want to avoid stronger actives
Use caution if
- Those seeking proven, high-efficacy antioxidant protection (better options exist)
Usage tips
Safety summary
Cordia leaf extract is considered safe for topical use with a low risk of irritation or allergic reaction. However, as with any botanical, patch testing is recommended for those with very sensitive skin.
Research notes
Research on Cordia obliqua leaf extract is limited to a few in vitro studies showing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Human clinical trials on its cosmetic benefits are lacking.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at 0.5–2% in leave-on products
- Regulatory status
- Generally recognized as safe for cosmetic use in the US and EU when used at typical concentrations.
- Common uses
- Serums, Moisturizers, Soothing creams
- Environmental note
- Cordia trees are widely cultivated in tropical regions and are not considered endangered, making this a relatively sustainable ingredient.
Good to know
- Cordia obliqua is also known as clammy cherry or broadleaf cordia.
- The extract is often used in traditional medicine, but cosmetic applications are newer.
Common questions
What is Cordia Leaf Extract in beauty products?
Cordia leaf extract comes from a tropical tree sometimes called clammy cherry. In skincare, it's added to provide antioxidants that may help protect skin from environmental stress, and it may have mild soothing effects. Because it's not as widely studied as ingredients like green tea or vitamin C, its benefits are less proven.
What does Cordia Leaf Extract do in a beauty product?
The extract's antioxidant compounds help neutralize free radicals—unstable molecules that can damage skin cells and accelerate aging. It may also have mild anti-inflammatory activity, which could help calm irritated skin.
Is Cordia Leaf Extract safe for most people?
Cordia leaf extract is considered safe for topical use with a low risk of irritation or allergic reaction. However, as with any botanical, patch testing is recommended for those with very sensitive skin.
Who should be careful with Cordia Leaf Extract?
Those seeking proven, high-efficacy antioxidant protection (better options exist)
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.