Ingredient review
Solanum Undatum Fruit Extract
INCI: Solanum Undatum Fruit Extract
A gentle plant extract with antioxidant potential, but research is limited and benefits are not yet well-established.
In plain English
This is an extract from the fruit of a wild tomato plant. In skincare, it is added to provide antioxidant protection, which means it may help neutralize some of the damage caused by environmental stressors like pollution and UV light. However, there is not much scientific research specifically on this extract, so its effectiveness is based more on traditional use and the known properties of similar tomato extracts.
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
Solanum Undatum Fruit 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 Solanum Undatum Fruit 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
Solanum Undatum Fruit Extract is a natural ingredient derived from the fruit of the Solanum undatum plant, a species of wild tomato native to parts of South America. It contains various bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, which are thought to contribute to its antioxidant and soothing properties.
How it works
In a cosmetic product, this extract works primarily as an antioxidant. It donates electrons to unstable free radicals, helping to prevent them from damaging skin cells, collagen, and elastin. It may also have mild anti-inflammatory effects, which can help calm irritated skin. The exact mechanism is not fully understood due to limited research.
Pros
Gentle antioxidant
Provides a mild antioxidant effect that can help protect skin from daily environmental damage without causing irritation.
Soothing potential
May help calm redness and irritation, making it suitable for sensitive skin types when used in low concentrations.
Cons and cautions
Limited research
There are very few peer-reviewed studies on this specific extract, so its benefits are largely inferred from similar ingredients.
Uncertain efficacy
Without robust clinical data, it's unclear how much antioxidant activity remains after formulation and over shelf life.
Best for
- Anyone looking for gentle antioxidant support in their routine
- Those with normal to dry skin seeking a soothing botanical ingredient
Use caution if
- Individuals with a known allergy to tomatoes or nightshade plants should patch test first
Usage tips
Safety summary
Solanum Undatum Fruit Extract is considered safe for topical use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. Allergic reactions are rare but possible, especially in individuals with nightshade sensitivities. Always patch test new products.
Research notes
Research on Solanum undatum specifically is minimal. Most evidence comes from studies on related Solanum species, which show antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. More targeted studies are needed to confirm benefits for skin.
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, with no specific restrictions beyond standard cosmetic ingredient regulations.
- Common uses
- Serums, Moisturizers, Face masks
- Environmental note
- Solanum undatum is a wild plant, and its cultivation or wild-harvesting practices are not widely documented, so sustainability is unclear.
Good to know
- This extract is sometimes listed under other names like 'Wild Tomato Fruit Extract' on labels.
- It is often used in low concentrations as a supporting ingredient rather than a primary active.
Common questions
What is Solanum Undatum Fruit Extract in beauty products?
This is an extract from the fruit of a wild tomato plant. In skincare, it is added to provide antioxidant protection, which means it may help neutralize some of the damage caused by environmental stressors like pollution and UV light. However, there is not much scientific research specifically on this extract, so its effectiveness is based more on traditional use and the known properties of similar tomato extracts.
What does Solanum Undatum Fruit Extract do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic product, this extract works primarily as an antioxidant. It donates electrons to unstable free radicals, helping to prevent them from damaging skin cells, collagen, and elastin. It may also have mild anti-inflammatory effects, which can help calm irritated skin. The exact mechanism is not fully understood due to limited research.
Is Solanum Undatum Fruit Extract safe for most people?
Solanum Undatum Fruit Extract is considered safe for topical use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. Allergic reactions are rare but possible, especially in individuals with nightshade sensitivities. Always patch test new products.
Who should be careful with Solanum Undatum Fruit Extract?
Individuals with a known allergy to tomatoes or nightshade plants 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.