Article last updated: October 15, 2024
Urtica Urens Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract is derived from the flowers, leaves, and stems of the Urtica urens plant, commonly known as the dwarf nettle or small nettle. This plant belongs to the Urticaceae family and is often found in temperate regions across the globe.
Historically, Urtica urens has been used for its medicinal properties, particularly in traditional herbal medicine. It has been employed to treat a variety of ailments, ranging from arthritis to skin conditions. The transition from medicinal use to cosmetic application is a natural progression, given its beneficial properties for the skin. In cosmetics, it is primarily valued for its skin conditioning capabilities, helping to maintain the skin’s softness, suppleness, and overall health.
The extraction process of Urtica Urens Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract typically involves harvesting the aerial parts of the plant—flowers, leaves, and stems—followed by drying and processing them to obtain the extract. This can be achieved through various methods, including solvent extraction, where the plant material is soaked in a solvent to draw out the desired compounds, or through more modern techniques like supercritical fluid extraction, which uses carbon dioxide under high pressure to extract the active ingredients. The resulting extract is then incorporated into cosmetic formulations to leverage its skin conditioning benefits.
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized cosmetic benefits and uses of Urtica Urens Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract:
Urtica Urens Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract is primarily valued for its skin conditioning properties. This means it helps to maintain the skin in good condition, keeping it soft, smooth, and healthy. When included in cosmetic formulations, this extract can enhance the overall feel and appearance of the skin, making it a popular choice for products aimed at improving skin texture and hydration. Essentially, it acts as a nurturing agent that supports the skin’s natural barrier, ensuring it remains supple and resilient.
Note: the listed benefits above are exclusively based on the officially recognized and defined functions of the ingredient, as documented by the International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI).
Urtica Urens Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract is generally considered safe for topical application in cosmetic products. However, as with any ingredient, there are potential side effects and considerations to keep in mind.
Regarding individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding, data and research on the topical usage of Urtica Urens Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract during pregnancy are lacking. Therefore, it is advisable for these individuals to consult a healthcare professional for further advice before using products containing this ingredient.
Adverse reactions to Urtica Urens Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract are relatively uncommon, but they can occur. To minimize the risk of an adverse reaction, it is recommended to conduct a patch test before widespread usage.
In terms of comedogenicity, Urtica Urens Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract is rated as 1 on a scale of 0 (totally non-comedogenic) to 5 (highly comedogenic). This low rating indicates that it is unlikely to clog pores, making it suitable for individuals prone to acne, blemishes, or breakouts.
