Ingredient review
Hydrolyzed Agrimonia Pilosa Leaf Extract
INCI: Hydrolyzed Agrimonia Pilosa Leaf Extract
A gentle, plant-based antioxidant extract that may help calm skin and defend against environmental stress, though research is still early.
In plain English
This is an extract from the leaves of a plant called Agrimonia pilosa (also known as agrimony). The leaves have been broken down into smaller pieces (hydrolyzed) so they can be used in skincare products. It is thought to help protect skin from damage caused by things like pollution and UV rays, and may also help calm irritated skin. Because it comes from a plant, it is considered a natural ingredient, but it is not as well-studied as some other antioxidants like vitamin C or green tea.
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
Hydrolyzed Agrimonia Pilosa 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 Hydrolyzed Agrimonia Pilosa 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 hydrolyzed (enzyme-treated) extract from the leaves of Agrimonia pilosa, a plant used in traditional medicine. The hydrolysis process breaks down larger molecules into smaller ones, making the extract more easily absorbed by the skin.
How it works
The extract contains polyphenols and flavonoids that act as antioxidants, neutralizing free radicals that can damage skin cells. It may also have anti-inflammatory effects, helping to reduce redness and irritation. In a cosmetic product, it works alongside other ingredients to support the skin's natural defenses.
Pros
Gentle antioxidant
Provides a mild defense against free radicals without the irritation that some stronger antioxidants can cause, making it a good choice for sensitive skin.
Soothing potential
Early research suggests it may help calm redness and irritation, which can be beneficial for reactive or inflamed skin.
Cons and cautions
Limited research
Most evidence comes from lab or animal studies, not large human trials, so its real-world benefits for skin are not fully proven.
Lower potency
Compared to well-studied antioxidants like vitamin C or green tea, this extract may offer weaker protection, so it is best used as a supporting ingredient rather than a primary active.
Best for
- People with normal to dry skin looking for gentle antioxidant support
- Those with sensitive or easily irritated skin who want a calming ingredient
Use caution if
- Anyone with a known allergy to plants in the Rosaceae family (e.g., roses, strawberries) should patch test first
Usage tips
Safety summary
Hydrolyzed Agrimonia Pilosa Leaf Extract is considered safe for topical use with a low risk of irritation or clogged pores. As with any plant extract, individuals with known allergies to related plants should patch test. There are no known serious safety concerns at typical cosmetic concentrations.
Research notes
Research on this specific hydrolyzed extract is limited. Most studies focus on the whole plant's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity in lab settings. While promising, more human clinical trials are needed to confirm its efficacy in skincare.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at 0.1–2% in leave-on products
- Regulatory status
- Generally recognized as safe for cosmetic use in the EU and US when used at typical concentrations. Not a drug ingredient.
- Common uses
- Serums, Moisturizers, Toning Lotions
- Environmental note
- Agrimonia pilosa is a wild herb that can be sustainably harvested, but check with the brand for sourcing practices.
Good to know
- Agrimonia pilosa has been used in traditional Asian medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties.
- The hydrolysis process makes the extract more water-soluble and easier to formulate into water-based products.
Common questions
What is Hydrolyzed Agrimonia Pilosa Leaf Extract in beauty products?
This is an extract from the leaves of a plant called Agrimonia pilosa (also known as agrimony). The leaves have been broken down into smaller pieces (hydrolyzed) so they can be used in skincare products. It is thought to help protect skin from damage caused by things like pollution and UV rays, and may also help calm irritated skin. Because it comes from a plant, it is considered a natural ingredient, but it is not as well-studied as some other antioxidants like vitamin C or green tea.
What does Hydrolyzed Agrimonia Pilosa Leaf Extract do in a beauty product?
The extract contains polyphenols and flavonoids that act as antioxidants, neutralizing free radicals that can damage skin cells. It may also have anti-inflammatory effects, helping to reduce redness and irritation. In a cosmetic product, it works alongside other ingredients to support the skin's natural defenses.
Is Hydrolyzed Agrimonia Pilosa Leaf Extract safe for most people?
Hydrolyzed Agrimonia Pilosa Leaf Extract is considered safe for topical use with a low risk of irritation or clogged pores. As with any plant extract, individuals with known allergies to related plants should patch test. There are no known serious safety concerns at typical cosmetic concentrations.
Who should be careful with Hydrolyzed Agrimonia Pilosa Leaf Extract?
Anyone with a known allergy to plants in the Rosaceae family (e.g., roses, strawberries) should patch test first
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.