Noni (Morinda citrifolia) is a tropical shrub or small tree belonging to the Rubiaceae family, native to Southeast Asia, Australasia and the Pacific islands. Traditional uses of noni include folk medicinal and wellness applications, and more recently, extracts derived from its fruit (and sometimes leaves) have been incorporated into cosmetic/skincare formulations under INCI names like Morinda citrifolia Fruit Extract or Noni Fruit Extract.
What It Does
Antioxidant & anti-ageing support: Noni fruit extracts are rich in vitamins (notably A and C) and phytochemicals (iridoids, flavonoids, lignans, etc.) which help scavenge free radicals and protect the skin from oxidative stress—a key component of visible skin ageing.
Hydration / barrier support: The extract also provides skin-conditioning benefits, enhancing hydration and supporting the skin’s moisture barrier.
Soothing & inflammation modulation: Studies show noni extract has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help calm irritated or stressed skin and support skin renewal.
Sebum regulation / texture improvement: Some modern cosmetic sources indicate that noni extract helps regulate sebum production (making it suitable for combination or oily skin) and leads to skin texture improvement and pore-refinement.
Skin renewal / firmness support: One clinical trial reported that a noni-based skincare regimen improved skin firmness/elasticity by up to ~42 % in women aged 38-55.
Suitability & Skin Types
Noni Fruit Extract is versatile and can be used across multiple skin types, but particularly suits the following:
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Dull or dehydrated skin needing antioxidant & moisture support
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Combination to oily skin with visible pores or texture irregularities (due to sebum-regulating/texture refining potential)
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Stressed, irritated or sensitive skin requiring soothing/balance support
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Mature skin looking for firmness, elasticity and anti-ageing benefits
Because the extract is botanical and relatively gentle (though still active), it's well-positioned for modern “plant-based” and “skin wellness” lines. That said, as with all botanical actives, patch testing is advised for very sensitive users.
Formulation Notes & Complementary Actives
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INCI name: Commonly Morinda citrifolia Fruit Extract. Always verify part of plant and extraction method with supplier.
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Typical usage levels: Vary depending on extract standardisation and targeted claim; many sources suggest moderate inclusion (e.g., ~0.5-3 %) though higher may be used in specialised treatments.
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Vehicle compatibility: Suitable for aqueous serums, emulsions (creams/lotions), masks or leave-on treatments.
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Complementary actives: Works well with:
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Hyaluronic acid & glycerin (for enhanced hydration)
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Niacinamide or licorice extract (for tone/texture support)
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Botanical antioxidants like green tea or rooibos (to boost free-radical protection)
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Mild exfoliants (e.g., low-dose lactic acid) – the renewal support of noni can complement gentle resurfacing
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Processing / stability: Because of flavonoids and other phytoactives, protect the extract from excessive heat, light and oxidation. Packaging such as opaque/air-reduced containers and inclusion during cool-down may help preserve potency.
Scent, Colour & Sensory Profile
Noni extracts typically appear as light to medium amber or golden hues, depending on concentration and extraction method. The scent is usually mild to moderate botanical/fruit-like; not strongly fragrant, enabling the formulator to layer additional aroma if desired. The sensory feel in finished textures tends to be light, fresh and supportive of “wellness” aesthetic rather than heavy or film-forming.
Sustainability & Sourcing
Noni is a hardy tropical plant that adapts to a variety of soil types and climates, which supports relatively sustainable cultivation. Key sustainability considerations include: responsible harvesting (so wild populations are not over-exploited), traceability of origin, pesticide-free or low-input farming, and certification where applicable (organic, fair-trade). Brands often highlight “Polynesian / Pacific Island heritage” or “tropical botanical origin” of noni in marketing.
Labelling & Claims
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Ingredient labelling: On the product’s ingredient panel: “Morinda citrifolia Fruit Extract” (or equivalent).
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Consumer-friendly name: “Noni Fruit Extract (Morinda citrifolia)”, “Tahitian Noni Botanical Extract”.
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Possible claims (depending on regional regulations and substantiation):
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“Helps protect skin from oxidative stress and environmental damage.”
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“Supports smoother, more even skin texture and refined pores.”
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“A rich source of botanical antioxidants and nutrients to promote skin vitality.”
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“Helps soothe and balance combination or oily skin.”
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Claims caution: Avoid overstating results (e.g., “erases wrinkles overnight”); use phrases like “helps reduce the appearance of”, “supports”, “promotes” unless supported by robust clinical data.
Properties
Antioxidant, Anti-microbial, Moisturizing
INCI Name
Morinda citrifolia Fruit Extract
