Terminalia bellerica—better known as beleric or bibhitaki—the quiet achiever in glow-and-balance formulas. Long used in traditional wellness (it’s one-third of the famed Triphala blend), the fruit brings a tidy mix of tannins (think gallic and ellagic acid derivatives), polyphenols, and minor sugars that translate beautifully into modern skincare and scalp care. In practice: it helps keep skin looking fresh, refined and less easily frazzled by daily life.
Where it fits in your routine
Beleric fruit extract shines in:
-
Daily hydrators: toners/essences that de-shine without dryness
-
Gel serums & light lotions: for combination or breakout-prone skin
-
Clay or gel masks: to reset after heat, sweat or city days
-
Micellar shampoos & scalp tonics: for a balanced, fresh-root feel
It pairs neatly with niacinamide (tone, barrier), panthenol/allantoin (comfort), zinc PCA (oil look), green tea or Centella (extra calm), and lightweight humectants (glycerin, betaine, propanediol).
Formulation notes (for the chem-curious)
-
Format & solubility: Typically water- or glycerin-based, easy to drop into the water phase of emulsions, gels and sheet-mask essences.
-
Use levels (follow your supplier’s spec): ~0.2–3% in leave-ons; up to 5–10% in rinse-offs/masks depending on system and desired feel.
-
pH & stability: Aim for pH 4.5–6.5; prolonged high heat may dull actives—add during cool-down. Colour usually ranges light amber to brown; protect from light with UV-resistant packaging for best shelf life.
-
Chelation: If your water is mineral-rich, a chelator (GLDA/EDTA) helps keep colour stable and clarity on point.
-
Compatibility: Plays nicely with common emulsifiers/surfactants; keep fragrance modest for sensitive-skin briefs.
Skin types & suitability
-
Best for: normal, combination and oily skin; also handy as a “T-zone tuner” for otherwise dry types.
-
Sensitive-friendly: Generally well tolerated when the whole formula is gentle and fragrance kept low.
-
Ethics: Vegan and cruelty-free by nature of the plant origin (confirm with your supplier’s policy and certifications).
Real-world claims you can support (check local regs)
-
Antioxidant protection
-
Helps refine the look of pores
-
Helps reduce the appearance of excess oil/shine
-
Supports a more even, healthy-looking tone
-
Helps soothe and comfort stressed skin/scalp
-
Naturally derived / plant-based / vegan / cruelty-free
How to use (simple, everyday)
AM: Sweep on a beleric toner after cleansing, then layer a niacinamide gel and your SPF.
PM: Reach for a light serum or lotion focused on hydration + balance.
Weekly: Add a gel-clay mask with beleric for a quick reset; follow with a calming moisturiser.
Properties
Hair nourishment, Skin diseases, Prevents aging, Boost hair growth, Hair darkening agent
INCI Name
Terminalia bellerica Fruit Extract
