Cornus Officinalis Flower Extract is derived from the flowers of the Cornus officinalis plant, known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and soothing properties. This extract is used in cosmetics for its ability to protect the skin from oxidative damage, reduce inflammation, and promote a healthy, radiant complexion. In addition to its cosmetic applications, Cornus officinalis flower extract is used in traditional medicine and may also find applications in the food industry for its beneficial properties.
Chemical Composition and Structure
Cornus Officinalis Flower Extract contains flavonoids, anthocyanins, organic acids, vitamins, and other bioactive phytochemicals. Flavonoids and anthocyanins provide strong antioxidant activity, while vitamins like vitamin C contribute to skin protection from free radical damage and environmental stress. Additionally, the soothing compounds in the extract help calm and balance the skin.
Physical Properties
It is available in liquid or powder form, with a color ranging from light yellow to brown depending on the extraction method. It is water-soluble and easily incorporated into various cosmetic products, including serums, lotions, and creams. Its light texture and fast absorption provide an immediate effect on the skin, leaving it soft and hydrated.
Production Process
The extract is obtained through solvent-based extraction, using water or alcohol, from the flowers of the Cornus officinalis plant. After harvesting, the flowers are dried and macerated to release the bioactive compounds, which are then isolated, filtered, and concentrated to produce a product rich in active ingredients, ready for use in cosmetic formulations.
Applications
Medical: In traditional medicine, Cornus officinalis flower extract is used for its anti-inflammatory and tonifying properties. It is employed to improve blood circulation, promote immune system health, and reduce symptoms of fatigue and weakness.
Cosmetics: Cornus Officinalis Flower Extract is used in skincare products, such as moisturizers, antioxidant serums, brightening masks, and anti-aging products. Its antioxidant properties protect the skin from external aggressors and premature aging, while its soothing action reduces redness and skin irritation. It is ideal for sensitive or mature skin.
INCI Functions:
Humectant. Hygroscopic compound used to minimise water loss in the skin and to prevent it from drying out by facilitating faster and greater absorption of water into the stratum corneum of the epidermis. The epidermis is the most superficial of the three layers that make up human skin (epidermis, dermis and hypodermis) and is the layer that maintains hydration in all three layers. In turn, the epidermis is composed of five layers: horny, the most superficial, granular, spinous, shiny, and basal. Humectants have the ability to retain the water they attract from the air in the stratum corneum and have the function of moisturising the skin. They are best used before emollients, which are oil-based.
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 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.
Food: Although the primary use of Cornus officinalis flower extract is cosmetic, it can also be used in some dietary supplements due to its flavonoid and vitamin content, offering antioxidant benefits for the body. However, its food use is less common than that of the fruit.
Industry: In industrial applications, the extract can be used as a natural preservative in cosmetics due to its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Additionally, its flavonoid content may be utilized as a functional additive to prevent oxidation in products.
Environmental and Safety Considerations
Cornus Officinalis Flower Extract is considered safe for use in cosmetics, food, and pharmaceutical products, provided it is used within recommended limits. As a natural extract, it is biodegradable and has no negative environmental impact. The Cornus officinalis plant is sustainably cultivated, making the extract environmentally responsible and suitable for green beauty products.
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