Terminalia Extract, a botanical drawn from the fruit of Terminalia chebula—known in Ayurveda as haritaki. Celebrated for centuries and now embraced by formulators, this extract delivers a potent cocktail of polyphenols (think tannins, gallic and ellagic acid) that help defend skin from the look of everyday stress. If you’re chasing glow, firmness and a calmer complexion without the sting of harsh actives, Terminalia is a cracking choice.
What it does
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Antioxidant defence: Helps neutralise the appearance of environmental stress, supporting brighter, more resilient-looking skin over time.
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Supports smoothness & elasticity: By helping to protect collagen and surface proteins from visible wear-and-tear, skin can look firmer and feel bouncier.
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Tone-evening comfort: Its soothing polyphenols help take the edge off redness-prone days, promoting a more even-looking tone and refined texture.
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Barrier-friendly hydration: Works nicely alongside humectants to help skin hold onto moisture, so the finish feels supple rather than tacky.
Sensory & suitability
Terminalia extracts are typically water-soluble with a light amber to brown hue and a subtle, tea-like aroma. On skin they feel weightless, leaving no greasy residue—ideal for daily serums and light gel creams. Suitable for most skin types, including combination and early-ageing concerns. Sensitive skin? Patch test first (as you should with any botanical).
Formulation notes
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Formats: Serums, essences, gel moisturisers, eye products, post-sun soothing layers.
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Phase: Add in the cool-down phase of water-based formulas.
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pH window: Performs well in mildly acidic systems (~pH 4.5–6.5).
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Stability: Protect from excessive heat and light; pair with supportive antioxidants for best result.
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Usage idea: AM/PM, after cleanse and before moisturiser/SPF; layers well under niacinamide or peptides.
Complementary actives
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Niacinamide for tone, barrier and pores.
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Hyaluronic acid + glycerin for bounce and long-lasting hydration.
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Vitamin C derivatives to amplify brightness with a gentler edge.
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Ceramides & squalane to lock in moisture and cushion the finish.
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Soothing allies like panthenol, allantoin and centella to round out calm, comfy routines.
Claims & labelling
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On the label (INCI): Terminalia chebula Fruit Extract
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Positioning claims: Antioxidant support, helps reduce the look of dullness, promotes smoother and more even-looking skin, daily environmental defence, gentle plant-powered care.
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Free-from talking points: Works in silicone-free, fragrance-free, alcohol-free and vegan-friendly formats depending on the base.
Scent, colour & aesthetics
Expect a herbal-tea tint that can nudge formulas light amber; this is normal with polyphenol-rich botanicals. Pair with clear or softly tinted gels and milkier emulsions for an elegant, “fresh-skin” finish.
Sustainability & sourcing
Terminalia is widely grown across South and Southeast Asia. Look for partners who prioritise responsible wild-harvest or cultivated supply, fair pricing for growers, and low-solvent extraction methods to minimise environmental load.
How to use (consumer-friendly)
Apply 2–3 drops of a Terminalia serum to clean, dry skin once or twice daily. Follow with moisturiser and broad-spectrum SPF in the morning. Consistency is key—expect a gradual uplift in brightness and texture over several weeks.
Properties
Antioxidant, Anti-cellulite, Anti- bacterial
INCI Name
Terminalia chebula Fruit Extract
