Ingredient review

Sycamore Maple Extract

INCI: Acer Pseudoplatanus Extract

A gentle, antioxidant-rich plant extract that may help calm skin and protect against environmental stress, though research is still early.

beautyskincareantioxidant

In plain English

Sycamore maple extract comes from the leaves of the sycamore maple tree. In skincare, it's used as a mild antioxidant and soothing ingredient. Think of it like a gentle helper that may calm redness and defend skin from daily pollution or sun exposure, but it's not a powerhouse ingredient on its own.

Quick decision guide

Useful, but context matters

Sycamore Maple 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.

  1. Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Sycamore Maple Extract.
  2. Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
  3. 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

low

Less likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.

Clogging risk

low

Less likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.

Evidence level

emerging

The ingredient may be promising, but claims should be treated more cautiously.

What it is

An extract derived from the leaves of Acer pseudoplatanus (sycamore maple), containing natural compounds like polyphenols and flavonoids that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

How it works

The polyphenols in sycamore maple extract help neutralize free radicals—unstable molecules that can damage skin cells and accelerate aging. It may also reduce the production of inflammatory signals in the skin, leading to a calming effect on redness or irritation.

Pros

Gentle antioxidant

Helps protect skin from daily pollution and UV damage without irritation, making it suitable for sensitive skin types.

Calming potential

May reduce redness and soothe inflammation, offering a mild anti-itch effect for reactive skin.

Cons and cautions

Limited research

Most evidence comes from lab studies, not large human trials, so the real-world benefits are not fully proven.

Low potency

Often used in small amounts, so it's unlikely to be a standout ingredient on its own—better as part of a broader antioxidant blend.

Best for

  • People with sensitive or easily irritated skin looking for gentle antioxidant support
  • Anyone wanting to add a mild, plant-based antioxidant to their routine

Use caution if

  • Those with known allergies to maple tree pollen or related plants (rare)

Usage tips

Look for it in serums or moisturizers that also contain other antioxidants like vitamin C or E for a synergistic effect.
Apply after cleansing and before heavier creams to allow the extract to absorb well.

Safety summary

Sycamore maple extract is considered safe for topical use with a low risk of irritation or allergic reaction. No significant safety concerns have been reported in cosmetic concentrations.

Research notes

Preliminary lab studies suggest antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, but clinical evidence in human skin is sparse. More research is needed to confirm efficacy.

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.
Common uses
Serums, Moisturizers, Toners
Environmental note
Sycamore maple trees are widely cultivated and not endangered; harvesting leaves for extract is considered sustainable.

Good to know

  • Sycamore maple extract is often found in 'clean beauty' products due to its natural origin.
  • It's not a common allergen, but patch test if you have tree pollen sensitivities.

Common questions

What is Sycamore Maple Extract in beauty products?

Sycamore maple extract comes from the leaves of the sycamore maple tree. In skincare, it's used as a mild antioxidant and soothing ingredient. Think of it like a gentle helper that may calm redness and defend skin from daily pollution or sun exposure, but it's not a powerhouse ingredient on its own.

What does Sycamore Maple Extract do in a beauty product?

The polyphenols in sycamore maple extract help neutralize free radicals—unstable molecules that can damage skin cells and accelerate aging. It may also reduce the production of inflammatory signals in the skin, leading to a calming effect on redness or irritation.

Is Sycamore Maple Extract safe for most people?

Sycamore maple extract is considered safe for topical use with a low risk of irritation or allergic reaction. No significant safety concerns have been reported in cosmetic concentrations.

Who should be careful with Sycamore Maple Extract?

Those with known allergies to maple tree pollen or related plants (rare)

Research sources

CosIng Database (EU)OpenPubMed - Polyphenols in Acer speciesOpenINCIDecoder - Acer Pseudoplatanus ExtractOpen

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.