DESCRIPTION: Shikimic acid is a natural product of cosmetic importance and is extracted from star anise (Illicium verum)

Shikimic acid is a naturally derived product from star anise. The name is derived from the Japanese name shikimic (flower) of Illicium verum (star anise), from which the acid is obtained. It has an impressive list of properties that elevates it to a star ingredient in cosmetic production. It’s anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, skin brightening, exfoliating, anti-microbial, anti-acne, anti-dandruff, exfoliating, and deo-active. It inhibits the growth of m.furfur and p.acnes. It enhances peeling capacity through stratum corneum hydration increase & exhibits full compatibility with water phase ingredients. It can be applied to cleansers, toners, anti-acne treatments, brightening treatments, masks, anti-aging, and other kinds of cosmetic products. Shikimic is only having its limelight in the cosmetic industry recently. Previously, it has been used in the pharmaceutical industry, as well as in the feed industry.

Shikimic is said to be in the Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) group of acids amongst acids like lactic and glycolic. In one study, 5% Shikimic acid was compared to 50% Glycolic acid concentration and the results were similar. Shikimic can be a great replacement for those who are sensitive to glycolic acid.

In one research, Shikimic at 1-2% was able to inhibit Propionibacterium acnes (The bacteria responsible for acne). In concentrations above 5%, Shikimic was also able to inhibit the growth of Malassezia furfur (a microorganism involved in the formation of dandruff).

Shikimic displayed very strong anti-oxidant properties with a concentration as low as 0.5%

Skin lightening is the practice of using chemical substances to lighten skin tone by lessening the concentration of melanin. Shikimic acid is a potent tyrosinase inhibitor with no irritation.

Shikimic also showed a significant increase in moisture content in the stratum corneum after 1 hour of application, which led to a reduction in stratum corneum thickness. Shikimic does this by getting rid of the dead cells of the stratum corneum much in the same way glycolic does.

1% of Shikimic acid was also found to be effective as a deodorant.

BENEFITS

• Strong anti-bacterial
• Mild anti-inflammatory
• Anti-Acne
• Exfoliating
• Sebum regulation
• Detoxifying of pores
• Anti-Aging
• Brightening and Lightening
• Moisturizing
• Anti-Dandruff
• Deodorization

APPLICATIONS: Hair care (Shampoos, Conditioners & Styling) Skincare (Facial care, Facial cleansing, Body care) Facial care Anti-Acne Products. Facial cleansing, Exfoliating product. Toiletries (Shower & Bath). Antiperspirants & deodorants

INCI: Shikimic Acid

Solubility: Water

Use rate: 1.0 – 2.0% (Up to 5% can be used in anti-dandruff shampoos)

Temperature Tolerance: Avoid temperatures above 60°C

pH Stability: 3.5 – 6.0

Appearance: White to off-white powder

Assay: 99% (This is not a ratio extract)

This is a cosmetic raw material and is meant for external use only in cosmetic formulations.  As with all of our materials, it should not be taken internally. Treasure Actives is not responsible for product compatibility. We advise everyone to test ingredients for performance, compatibility, and safety prior to committing to larger quantities. Keep all products out of reach of children. For more information, please see our terms and conditions page.