Paper Mulberry Extract is a botanical active valued for its brightening, antioxidant, and soothing properties. Sourced from the bark of Broussonetia papyrifera, it helps improve the look of uneven skin tone, softens the appearance of dark spots, and supports a more radiant complexion—making it a smart inclusion for brightening serums, daily moisturisers, and targeted treatment products. (INCI: Broussonetia papyrifera Bark Extract.)
What it does
Paper Mulberry Extract is best known as a complexion-evening ingredient. It helps visibly reduce the look of hyperpigmentation and post-blemish marks while promoting a more uniform, luminous tone. Its natural antioxidant profile helps defend skin against the stressors of daily life, which in turn can minimise the look of dullness. Many users also appreciate its calming feel on the skin, making it suitable for formulas aimed at sensitive, blemish-prone, or reactive complexions.
How it works
The bark of Broussonetia papyrifera contains a variety of phenolic compounds and flavonoids that are widely studied for complexion benefits. In brightening products, Paper Mulberry Extract is commonly used to support a more even look by helping to keep excess surface pigmentation in check. Its antioxidant components also help neutralise free radicals before they contribute to a tired, uneven appearance. Together, these actions make the extract a versatile choice for both preventative care and the look of correction.
Formulation notes
Paper Mulberry Extract can be incorporated into water-based serums, emulsions, gel-creams, and essences. It pairs well with other tone-evening allies such as niacinamide, tranexamic acid, licorice derivatives, and gentle exfoliants (e.g., mandelic or lactic acid) in routines designed to brighten without over-sensitising the skin. For best sensorial performance, formulators often position brightening actives in pH-appropriate systems (typically mildly acidic), use chelators to enhance stability, and add supportive humectants to maintain comfort. Always follow your supplier’s specifications for solubility, use level, and processing temperature to protect activity.
Who it’s for
Because it targets the look of uneven tone while remaining cosmetically elegant, Paper Mulberry Extract suits a wide range of skin types. Oily and blemish-prone users can benefit from its appearance-refining qualities, while dry or sensitive skin types often appreciate its gentle, calming feel when used in well-balanced formulas. As with any active, patch testing is recommended, and brightening routines should be complemented with daily broad-spectrum sunscreen to maintain results.
Sustainability & sourcing
Paper mulberry is a resilient plant historically cultivated across Asia, and responsible sourcing can help support consistent quality while respecting local ecosystems. Look for suppliers who provide clear documentation (CoA, allergen statements, residual solvent data) and transparency around standardisation and extraction method.
Label & INCI
List the ingredient on pack as Broussonetia papyrifera Bark Extract. When positioning claims, keep them cosmetic: focus on improving the look of uneven tone, radiance, and overall complexion clarity. Avoid implying medical or drug-like effects, and ensure any marketing language aligns with your region’s cosmetic regulations.
In short: Paper Mulberry Extract is a multitasking brightener that supports a more even, radiant look while offering antioxidant and soothing benefits—ideal for thoughtful, everyday skincare formulations.
Properties
Skin whitening, Anti-bacterial, Acne treatment, Antioxidant
INCI Name
Broussonetia papyrifera Bark Extract



