Ingredient review
Dalbergia Wood Extract
INCI: DALBERGIA LATIFOLIA WOOD EXTRACT
A gentle plant extract with antioxidant potential, but research on its specific skin benefits is still limited.
In plain English
This ingredient is made from the wood of the Indian rosewood tree. In skincare, it's thought to help protect skin from environmental damage because it contains natural antioxidants. It's generally considered mild and unlikely to cause irritation, but there isn't a lot of scientific 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
Dalbergia 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 Dalbergia 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
Dalbergia latifolia wood extract is a natural botanical ingredient derived from the heartwood of the Indian rosewood tree. It contains various compounds like flavonoids and phenolic acids that have antioxidant activity.
How it works
In a cosmetic product, this extract is believed to work by donating electrons to neutralize free radicals (unstable molecules that can damage skin cells). This antioxidant action may help reduce oxidative stress on the skin, potentially slowing signs of aging caused by environmental factors like UV exposure and pollution.
Pros
Natural antioxidant source
Derived from a renewable plant source, it offers a gentle way to add antioxidant protection to your routine without harsh chemicals.
Low irritation potential
Generally well-tolerated by most skin types, making it suitable for sensitive skin when used at typical concentrations.
Cons and cautions
Limited research
There are very few peer-reviewed studies specifically on Dalbergia latifolia wood extract for topical skin use, so its benefits are not well-established.
Potential allergen
Rosewood is known to cause allergic contact dermatitis in some people, especially those with existing wood allergies. Patch testing is advisable.
Best for
- People looking for natural antioxidant ingredients
- Those with normal to dry skin seeking gentle protection
Use caution if
- Individuals with known allergies to Dalbergia species (rosewood)
- Those seeking proven, high-efficacy antioxidant ingredients
Usage tips
Safety summary
Dalbergia latifolia wood extract is considered safe for topical use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. However, individuals with known allergies to rosewood or other Dalbergia species should avoid it. As with any new ingredient, a patch test is recommended.
Research notes
Current evidence is limited to in vitro studies showing antioxidant activity and traditional use. No robust clinical trials on human skin have been published. More research is needed to confirm efficacy and safety for cosmetic applications.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at 0.1–2% in leave-on products
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU and US, but not specifically evaluated by the FDA. Generally recognized as safe when used as intended.
- Common uses
- Serums, Moisturizers, Anti-aging creams
- Environmental note
- Sourcing of Dalbergia latifolia wood should be verified as sustainable, as the species is listed in CITES Appendix II, meaning international trade is regulated.
Good to know
- Dalbergia latifolia is also known as Indian rosewood and is a protected species in some regions due to overharvesting.
- The extract is often used in traditional medicine, but cosmetic use is relatively new.
Common questions
What is Dalbergia Wood Extract in beauty products?
This ingredient is made from the wood of the Indian rosewood tree. In skincare, it's thought to help protect skin from environmental damage because it contains natural antioxidants. It's generally considered mild and unlikely to cause irritation, but there isn't a lot of scientific research yet to confirm how well it works on skin.
What does Dalbergia Wood Extract do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic product, this extract is believed to work by donating electrons to neutralize free radicals (unstable molecules that can damage skin cells). This antioxidant action may help reduce oxidative stress on the skin, potentially slowing signs of aging caused by environmental factors like UV exposure and pollution.
Is Dalbergia Wood Extract safe for most people?
Dalbergia latifolia wood extract is considered safe for topical use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. However, individuals with known allergies to rosewood or other Dalbergia species should avoid it. As with any new ingredient, a patch test is recommended.
Who should be careful with Dalbergia Wood Extract?
Individuals with known allergies to Dalbergia species (rosewood) Those seeking proven, high-efficacy antioxidant 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.