Birch aqueous extract

Description

Birch 1:2 aqueous extract

Birch 1:2 aqueous extract is a concentrated botanical ingredient derived from the leaves or bark of the white birch tree. Prepared at a 1:2 drug-to-solvent ratio using water, it delivers high concentrations of water-soluble phytocompounds—including flavonoids (quercetin), tannins, saponins, and vitamin C—into cosmetic systems.

Botanical & INCI Information

Botanical Names: Betula alba L. or Betula pendula Roth.
INCI Name: Betula Alba Leaf Extract (and) Aqua; or Betula Alba Bark Extract (and) Aqua.

Key Cosmetic Benefits

Astringent & Purifying: High tannin content provides a natural pore-tightening effect, making it highly effective for oily and blemish-prone skin.
Soothing & Anti-Inflammatory: Significantly reduces skin redness and irritation; clinical studies show it can perform as a natural alternative to niacinamide for barrier repair.
Antioxidant Protection: Neutralizes free radicals from UV exposure and environmental pollutants, helping to slow the appearance of fine lines.
Scalp Health: Widely used in hair care to reduce dandruff and soothe scalp irritation by balancing sebum production.

Formulation Guidelines

Solubility: Fully water-soluble; suitable for the aqueous phase of emulsions, toners, and gels.
Usage Levels: Typically recommended between 1.0% and 5.0% for leave-on skincare, or up to 10% in rinse-off applications like shampoos.
Stability: Best incorporated during the cool-down phase (below 40°C) to preserve heat-sensitive flavonoids.
pH Range: Formulations should ideally maintain a pH of 4.0 to 6.5 for optimal stability.