Alstonia scholaris Bark Extract—from the evergreen “devil tree” native to South and Southeast Asia—is a quietly powerful botanical with a comfort-first profile. Traditionally valued in regional wellness, its bark yields alkaloid-, phenolic-, and triterpenoid-rich fractions that translate in cosmetics to soothing feel, antioxidant support, and a clean, balanced finish (cosmetic effects only). Think: a calm, conditioned complexion that still feels light and breathable.
What it does
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Calms & comforts: Helps reduce the perception of post-cleanse tightness or seasonal irritation, leaving skin feeling settled rather than squeaky.
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Antioxidant support: Plant phenolics provide everyday defence against environmental stressors, softening the look of dullness (pair with SPF—this isn’t a sunscreen).
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Clarity & balance: With regular use, skin can appear more even and refined, making it a handy addition for T-zone shine control without harshness.
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Barrier friendliness: Supports a well-conditioned surface so other hydrators and actives layer more smoothly.
Skin suitability
Great for normal, combination and oily skin that wants freshness without stripping. Works for dry or sensitive types in gentle, fragrance-lean bases—especially where comfort is the brief. Always patch test if reactive, and avoid use on broken/compromised skin and the eye area.
Formulation notes (guide—follow your supplier COA)
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Formats & solubility: Common as water/glycerin extracts for toners, essences, gels and sheet masks; sometimes as oil-dispersible fractions for emulsions and balms.
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Typical use levels:
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Water-based leave-ons: 0.2–2% (higher in rinse-off).
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Oil-dispersible: 0.05–0.5% in the oil phase or cool-down.
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pH window: Generally comfortable around pH 4.5–6.5.
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Processing: Add in cool-down (<40–45 °C) to protect delicate constituents. Preserve water-rich systems with a robust broad-spectrum system; consider a chelator for colour/clarity.
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Stability & appearance: Naturally pale yellow to light amber; may warm very clear gels. Use opaque or UV-protective packaging and store cool to help colour hold.
Smart pairings
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Hydration & barrier: Glycerin, betaine, hyaluronic acid, panthenol, beta-glucan, ectoin, and ceramide systems for a plush, non-tacky base.
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Clarity & tone: Niacinamide, zinc PCA, gentle PHA/AHA or azelaic derivatives for refined look without aggression.
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Antioxidant stack: Vitamin E, ferulic acid, green tea to round out daily defence.
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Soothe further: Allantoin, bisabolol, madecassoside if your audience skews sensitive.
Product formats you’ll see
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Purifying toners/essences: Shine-friendly hydration with a calm finish.
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Gel serums: Lightweight layers to support clarity and everyday resilience.
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Cream-gel moisturisers: “Balanced but comfy” textures that sit neatly under SPF and makeup.
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Low-foam cleansers & sheet masks: Fresh feel without over-stripping; masks for non-broken skin only.
Claims & labelling inspiration
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Claims: “Soothing,” “Antioxidant support,” “Helps refine the look of pores,” “Shine-friendly hydration,” “Comforts post-cleanse tightness.”
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INCI listing: Alstonia scholaris Bark Extract (plus solvent system components).
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Ethics/environment: Often vegan and readily biodegradable when responsibly sourced—confirm GMO status, allergen declarations, extract ratio, and solvent system per your supplier documentation and local regs.
Properties
Anti-microbial, Anti-oxidant
INCI Name
Alstonia scholaris Bark Extract
