Acanthus ilicifolius—often called Sea Holly or Holly Mangrove—is a coastal botanical valued for its skin-comforting profile. In modern cosmetics it’s typically supplied as a water-glycol extract, where humectant carriers (e.g., butylene glycol, water) boost surface hydration while the leaf actives deliver targeted care. INCI: Acanthus ilicifolius Leaf Extract.
What it does
This extract shines as a calm-and-protect active. In vitro and preclinical literature on A. ilicifolius points to anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities—three pillars that help visibly reduce signs of irritation, defend against environmental oxidative stress, and support a clearer-looking complexion. These effects are attributed to a spectrum of phenolics, flavonoids, and other phytochemicals naturally present in the leaves.
Skin feel & results
Formulas featuring Sea Holly extract are designed to keep skin soft, balanced and comfortable, particularly when sensitivity or tightness flares up. With regular use, expect skin to look calmer, better hydrated, and more resilient against daily stressors.
Who it’s for
Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and combination skins seeking lightweight comfort. Its antioxidant/soothing profile also makes it a smart pick for urban lifestyles or routines that pair with stronger actives (think retinoids or acids), where a buffering, calming support is welcome.
How formulators use it
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Phase/solubility: Supplied as a water-based / water-glycol extract; add to the water phase or at cool-down depending on system needs.
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System compatibility: Plays nicely in gels, lotions, serums, toners and sheet-mask essences. Its humectant carrier helps boost immediate hydration in minimalist or “weightless” textures.
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Pairings: Works synergistically with barrier-loving humectants (glycerin, panthenol), film-formers, niacinamide and broad antioxidant networks (vitamin E derivatives, polyphenols) to round out irritation-reducing and pollution-defence stories. (Mechanistic rationale based on its antioxidant/anti-inflammatory profile.)
Claims you can make
(verify to local regs/INCI lists)
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Soothes sensitive skin / helps reduce visible redness (anti-inflammatory support).
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Antioxidant defence against environmental stressors (phenolic/flavonoid content).
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Helps keep skin soft, hydrated and comfortable (water–glycol base + humectancy).
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Purifying support for clearer-looking skin (antimicrobial activity reported in literature).
Label copy ideas
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“Calming mangrove leaf extract to comfort stressed, sensitive skin.”
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“Antioxidant Sea Holly helps defend against oxidative stress for a fresher, more resilient look.”
Sustainability & sourcing note
Sea Holly is a mangrove-associated species; responsible suppliers prioritise compliant harvesting and traceable cultivation. If you feature sustainability credentials (e.g., origin traceability, no endangered habitats), highlight them alongside your INCI and solvent system.
INCI & composition at a glance
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INCI: Acanthus ilicifolius Leaf Extract
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Typical solvent system: Water, Butylene Glycol (supplier-dependent)
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Functional highlights: Soothing, antioxidant, antimicrobial; hydration support via carrier.
Properties
Anti-microbial, Anti-oxidant, Anti- inflammatory
INCI Name
Acanthus ilicifolius Leaf Extract
