Viola tricolor extract
The name describes the structure of the ingredient
"Viola tricolor" (a plant belonging to the Violaceae family) is the botanical name for "wild pansy" or "heartsease", a common flowering plant. The Viola tricolor extract is primarily derived from the aerial parts of this plant.
Description of raw materials used in production
The primary raw material for this extract is the aerial parts of the Viola tricolor, including the flowers, leaves, and sometimes the small stems. This plant is valued for its emollient and soothing properties and is commonly used in skincare products.
Extraction process
- Harvesting of the aerial parts - The aerial parts of Viola tricolor are harvested.
- Grinding - The harvested parts are ground or crushed to facilitate extraction.
- Extraction - The extract is obtained by soaking the ground parts in a solvent (like alcohol, water, or others) for a specific duration.
- Filtration - The solution is filtered to remove solid particles.
- Evaporation - If used, the solvent is then evaporated off, leaving behind the concentrated Viola tricolor extract.
- Packaging - The extract is then packaged for sale or further processing.
What it is for and where
Cosmetics
Skin conditioning agent - Emollient. Emollients have the characteristic of enhancing the skin barrier through a source of exogenous lipids that adhere to the skin, improving barrier properties by filling gaps in intercorneocyte clusters to improve hydration while protecting against inflammation. In practice, they have the ability to create a barrier that prevents transepidermal water loss. Emollients are described as degreasing or refreshing additives that improve the lipid content of the upper layers of the skin by preventing degreasing and drying of the skin. The problem with emollients is that many have a strong lipophilic character and are identified as occlusive ingredients; they are oily and fatty materials that remain on the skin surface and reduce transepidermal water loss. In cosmetics, emollients and moisturisers are often considered synonymous with humectants and occlusives.
Skin protectant. It creates a protective barrier on the skin to defend it from harmful substances, irritants, allergens, pathogens that can cause various inflammatory conditions. These products can also improve the natural skin barrier and in most cases more than one is needed to achieve an effective result.
Soothing. Ingredient with the task of restoring moisture to the skin, helping in the healing process of irritation, inflammation and skin disorders.
CAS 84012-42-0
EC number 281-687-6
Properties
- Soothing: Known for its ability to calm and relieve irritated and sensitive skin.
- Anti-inflammatory: It can help reduce skin inflammation and redness.
- Moisturizing: Assists in hydrating the skin and maintaining its moisture balance.
- Rich in Flavonoids: These compounds have antioxidant benefits, helping to protect the skin from free radicals.
Applications
- Skincare: Incorporated into various skincare products such as creams, lotions, serums, and even masks, especially those aimed at sensitive or irritated skin.
- Traditional Medicine: Historically used in traditional remedies to treat skin conditions like eczema and acne.
Safety
Generally considered safe for topical application in cosmetics.