Description

Bixa Orellana Leaf Extract is derived from the leaves of the Bixa orellana plant, commonly known as annatto. This extract is highly valued in the cosmetic and personal care industry for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and skin conditioning properties, making it a beneficial component in various skincare, hair care, and therapeutic products.

Chemical Composition and Structure
Bixa Orellana Leaf Extract contains a variety of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and phenolic acids. These compounds contribute to its beneficial effects on the skin and hair, such as providing protection against oxidative stress, soothing inflammation, and enhancing overall skin health. The specific composition includes:

Flavonoids: Provide strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Tannins: Offer astringent properties that help to tighten and tone the skin.
Saponins: Contribute to the cleansing and conditioning properties.
Phenolic Acids: Known for their antioxidant and antimicrobial effects.
Physical Properties
Bixa Orellana Leaf Extract typically appears as a brownish liquid or powder with a characteristic odor. It is water-soluble, making it easy to incorporate into various water-based formulations.

Cosmetic and Personal Care Applications
Antioxidant: The high flavonoid content provides strong antioxidant benefits, protecting the skin from free radical damage and environmental stressors.

Anti-Inflammatory: The extract's anti-inflammatory properties help to soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing redness and discomfort.

Skin Conditioning: This ingredient helps to condition the skin, enhancing its texture and overall appearance. It is suitable for all skin types, especially sensitive and inflamed skin.

Astringent: The tannins in the extract provide astringent properties, helping to tighten and tone the skin, reducing the appearance of pores.

Cleansing: The saponins contribute to the extract's cleansing properties, making it a useful addition to facial cleansers and toners.

Hair Care: In hair care products, Bixa Orellana Leaf Extract helps to soothe the scalp, reduce dandruff, and enhance the strength and shine of the hair.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

Bixa Orellana Leaf Extract is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic and personal care products. It is non-irritating and suitable for all skin types. As a naturally derived ingredient, it poses minimal risk to the environment when disposed of properly. Utilizing Bixa Orellana Leaf Extract also supports sustainable practices by promoting the use of plant-based ingredients.

Cosmetics - INCI Functions


Antioxidant agent. Ingredient that counteracts oxidative stress and prevents cell damage. Free radicals, pathological inflammatory processes, reactive nitrogen species and reactive oxygen species are responsible for the ageing process and many diseases caused by oxidation.

Skin conditioning agent. It is the mainstay of topical skin treatment as it has the function of restoring, increasing or improving skin tolerance to external factors, including melanocyte tolerance. The most important function of the conditioning agent is to prevent skin dehydration, but the subject is rather complex and involves emollients and humectants that can be added in the formulation.

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.
Synonyms:

CAS: 89957-43-7 EC number 289-561-2