QUILLAJA SAPONARIA BARK EXTRACT (Soapbark extract) – function in cosmetics

An extract of soapbark tree bark used as a natural cleansing and foaming agent.

What it is

Quillaja saponaria bark extract is an extract of the bark of the soapbark tree, Quillaja saponaria, native to Chile. The bark contains saponins, which foam in water. CosIng lists it with several functions, including cleansing, foaming, emulsifying, anti-seborrhoeic, moisturising, skin-conditioning and fragrance.

Where it is used

Found in shampoos, shower gels, facial cleansers and toothpastes.

Limits of interpretation

The INCI list shows which ingredients are present, not how much of each. Above 1%, ingredients are listed in descending order of weight; below 1% the order is free.

The INCI name does not reveal the extraction method or the saponin content.

Functions

Anti-seborrheic

Preventing or relieving the symptoms of seborrhea and/or seborrheic dermatitis, including dandruff.

Cleansing

Helping to keep the body surface clean.

Surfactant – emulsifying

Helping suspensions or dispersions of liquids in a second liquid by reducing the surface tension of the substances to be emulsified.

Foaming

Traping numerous small bubbles of air or other gas within a small volume of liquid by modifying the surface tension of the liquid.

Fragrance

Imparting an odour or taste. Creating a perceivable pleasant smell and/or masking a bad smell.

Moisturising

Increasing the water content of the skin and keeping it soft and smooth.

Skin conditioning

Maintaining the skin in good condition.

Surfactant – cleansing

Wetting body surfaces, emulsifying or solubilizing oils, and suspending soil (generally, such ingredients contribute to the foaming and lathering properties of cleansing products).

QUILLAJA SAPONARIA BARK EXTRACT

What it is

Where it is used

Limits of interpretation

Functions

EU regulation

Products with this ingredient (8)