Description

Hordeum Distichon Seed Flour is a finely milled powder derived from the seeds of two-row barley (Hordeum distichon). It is known for its use in skincare products due to its rich nutrient profile, including antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. This flour is used for its exfoliating, moisturizing, and skin-conditioning properties in various cosmetic and personal care formulations.

Chemical Composition and Structure

Hordeum Distichon Seed Flour contains several beneficial compounds:

Beta-Glucans: Polysaccharides with significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to soothe the skin and protect it from environmental damage.
Phenolic Compounds: Including flavonoids and phenolic acids that provide additional antioxidant protection by neutralizing free radicals.
Vitamins: Such as Vitamin E, which supports skin health with its antioxidant properties.
Minerals: Including magnesium and zinc, which aid in skin repair and regeneration.
The flour is composed of finely ground barley seeds, retaining the full spectrum of these bioactive compounds in a powdered form.

Physical Properties

Appearance: Typically appears as a fine, light brown powder.
Odor: Mild, cereal-like aroma with subtle earthy undertones.
Solubility: Not soluble in water, but can be suspended in various formulations.
pH: Neutral to slightly acidic, aligning with the skin’s natural pH.
Stability: Maintains stability under normal storage conditions; should be kept dry and away from excessive light and heat.

Production Process

Harvesting: Barley seeds are harvested from Hordeum distichon plants when mature.
Cleaning: The harvested seeds are cleaned to remove any debris and impurities.
Milling: The cleaned seeds are ground into a fine powder, which retains the beneficial compounds of the barley.
Purification: The flour is purified to ensure it is free from contaminants.
Formulation: The purified seed flour is incorporated into various skincare and cosmetic products for its exfoliating and conditioning properties.

Applications

Cosmetics: Used in skincare products for its exfoliating, moisturizing, and conditioning effects. It helps to gently remove dead skin cells, hydrate the skin, and improve its texture.
Medical: In some formulations, it may be used for its skin-soothing properties, contributing to skin repair and health.
Food: Not typically used in food products as its primary applications are in cosmetics and personal care.
Industrial Uses: Primarily used in cosmetic formulations, where it enhances the product's texture and provides exfoliation and conditioning benefits.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

Generally regarded as safe for topical application, however, like all powders, it should be used in accordance with established guidelines to avoid potential allergic reactions or skin irritations. People with allergies or very sensitive skin should exercise caution. It is important to ensure that the seed flour is sustainably sourced and free from harmful chemicals.

INCI Functions:


Abrasive agent. It contains abrasive particles to remove stains or biofilm that accumulate on the stratum corneum or teeth. Baking soda, kieselguhr, silica and many others have abrasive properties. Peeling or exfoliating products used in dermatology or cosmetic applications contain abrasive agents in the form of synthetic microspheres, however, these microspheres, or abrasive particles may not be biodegradable and create pollution in aquatic ecosystems.

Bulking agent. It regulates the water content, dilutes other solids, can increase the volume of a product for better flow, acts as a buffer against organic acids, helps to keep the pH of the mixture within a certain level.
Synonyms:

CAS: 94349-67-4 EC number 305-187-5