Salix Alba Bark Powder is derived from the bark of the Salix alba tree, commonly known as white willow. This powder is valued for its natural soothing, anti-inflammatory, and astringent properties, and is used in various cosmetic and skincare formulations.

Chemical Composition and Structure

Active Compounds: Contains salicylic acid, salicin, flavonoids, and tannins. Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) known for its exfoliating and anti-inflammatory effects.
Salicin: The primary active compound, which converts to salicylic acid in the body.

Physical Properties

Appearance: Fine, light brown powder.
Odor: Mild, with a characteristic woody fragrance.
Solubility: Generally insoluble in water but can be dispersed in formulations.
Texture: Fine and easily blendable into powders, masks, or exfoliants.

Production Process

Harvesting: The bark of the Salix alba tree is harvested.
Drying: The bark is dried to remove moisture.
Grinding: The dried bark is ground into a fine powder.
Screening: The powder is screened to ensure uniform particle size.
Packaging: The final powder is packaged in conditions that protect it from moisture and contamination.

Applications

Cosmetic: Used in skincare products for its exfoliating, anti-inflammatory, and astringent properties. Commonly included in facial scrubs, masks, and exfoliants.
Pharmaceutical: May be used in topical treatments for its soothing and anti-inflammatory effects.
Food: Generally not used in food products.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

Biodegradability: The powder is designed to be environmentally friendly and biodegradable.
Toxicity: Generally regarded as safe for topical use. Should be used according to established guidelines to avoid potential allergic reactions or skin irritations. Individuals sensitive to salicylates should exercise caution. Ensure that the powder is sustainably sourced and free from harmful contaminants.
Disposal: Should be disposed of in accordance with local environmental regulations to minimize environmental impact.

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.

Absorbent. Absorbs substances dispersed or dissolved in aqueous solutions, water/oil, oil/water.

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: 84082-82-6 EC number 282-029-0