Ingredient review
Myricetin
INCI: MYRICETIN
Myricetin is a plant-based antioxidant that may help protect skin from environmental damage and support a more even complexion, though human studies are still limited.
In plain English
Myricetin is a natural antioxidant found in foods like berries, tea, and herbs. In skincare, it helps neutralize free radicals—unstable molecules from UV rays and pollution that can damage skin cells and speed up visible aging. Think of it as a shield that helps your skin handle daily stress. It also has some research suggesting it can help calm redness and support a more even skin tone, but most of the evidence comes from lab studies, not large human trials.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- natural
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Myricetin 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 Myricetin.
- 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
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
Myricetin is a flavonoid compound (a type of plant pigment) with strong antioxidant properties. It is found in many plants, including bayberry, grapes, berries, and green tea.
How it works
In a cosmetic product, myricetin works primarily by donating electrons to neutralize free radicals, preventing them from damaging skin cells. It may also help reduce the activity of certain enzymes that break down collagen and elastin, and it has been shown in lab studies to inhibit tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in melanin production, which could help with uneven skin tone.
Pros
Strong antioxidant activity
Myricetin is a potent free-radical scavenger, helping to protect skin cells from oxidative stress caused by UV rays and pollution, which can lead to premature aging.
May support even skin tone
Lab studies suggest myricetin can inhibit tyrosinase, the enzyme that triggers melanin production, making it a potential gentle option for those seeking a more uniform complexion.
Cons and cautions
Limited human research
Most evidence for myricetin's skin benefits comes from lab and animal studies. Large-scale human trials are lacking, so its real-world effectiveness is not as well-established as some other antioxidants.
Stability challenges
Myricetin can degrade when exposed to light, air, or heat, so it requires careful formulation—often in opaque, airtight packaging—to remain effective on the shelf.
Best for
- Anyone looking to boost their skin's antioxidant protection against daily environmental damage
- People with dull or uneven skin tone who want a gentle brightening ingredient
Use caution if
- Those with known allergies to flavonoids or plant extracts should patch test first
Usage tips
Safety summary
Myricetin is considered safe for topical use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, making it suitable for most skin types. As with any new ingredient, a patch test is recommended for those with sensitive skin or known plant allergies.
Research notes
Research on myricetin shows promising antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in lab and animal studies. Some studies also indicate potential for inhibiting melanin production and supporting collagen preservation. However, high-quality human clinical trials are still needed to confirm these benefits in real-world skincare use.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at 0.1% to 1% in leave-on products
- Regulatory status
- Myricetin is generally recognized as safe for use in cosmetics by international regulatory bodies, including the FDA (as a cosmetic ingredient) and the European Commission. It is not a drug ingredient and is not approved for treating medical conditions.
- Common uses
- Serums, Moisturizers, Eye creams, Sunscreens
- Environmental note
- Myricetin is typically derived from plant sources, making it a renewable ingredient. However, the environmental impact depends on the specific extraction methods and sourcing practices of the manufacturer.
Good to know
- Myricetin is also found in foods like onions, berries, and red wine, but eating it doesn't directly translate to skin benefits—topical application is more targeted.
- It is often used in combination with other flavonoids in plant extracts, so check the full ingredient list for complementary antioxidants.
Common questions
What is Myricetin in beauty products?
Myricetin is a natural antioxidant found in foods like berries, tea, and herbs. In skincare, it helps neutralize free radicals—unstable molecules from UV rays and pollution that can damage skin cells and speed up visible aging. Think of it as a shield that helps your skin handle daily stress. It also has some research suggesting it can help calm redness and support a more even skin tone, but most of the evidence comes from lab studies, not large human trials.
What does Myricetin do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic product, myricetin works primarily by donating electrons to neutralize free radicals, preventing them from damaging skin cells. It may also help reduce the activity of certain enzymes that break down collagen and elastin, and it has been shown in lab studies to inhibit tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in melanin production, which could help with uneven skin tone.
Is Myricetin safe for most people?
Myricetin is considered safe for topical use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, making it suitable for most skin types. As with any new ingredient, a patch test is recommended for those with sensitive skin or known plant allergies.
Who should be careful with Myricetin?
Those with known allergies to flavonoids or plant extracts 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.