Betula Alba Bark Extract
Birch bark extract – a source of betulin and betulinic acid. Anti-inflammatory action and support for epidermal regeneration. Pregnancy-safe.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Regenerative and anti-inflammatory extract. Episalvan is a pharmaceutical product with approved wound-healing effect.
- Schwieger-Briel A et al. Birch bark oleogel for epidermolysis bullosa wounds (Episalvan RCT). N Engl J Med 2017. PMID 28611842
- Ebeling S et al. Betulin-based oleogel for wound healing. PLoS One 2014. PMID 24465925
How to read tiers A–F
- BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Birch bark extract is an extract of the inner bark of Betula alba (white birch) with glycol, water or oil. INCI: Betula Alba (Birch) Bark Extract. The main active components are the triterpenes betulin (up to 30% of bark dry mass) and betulinic acid. In cosmetics it works as an anti-inflammatory and regenerative component. Betulin stimulates keratinocyte proliferation, accelerates cell migration into the wound bed and supports collagen synthesis. In Germany the birch bark extract is registered as a medicinal product (Episalvan) for treating superficial wounds up to 2 mm thick. In cosmetics it is used in creams for problem skin, after-shave products, anti-aging formulas and products for dermatitis. Use levels run from 0.5 to 3%. Pregnancy safety. Skin absorption into the systemic circulation is minimal. Episalvan is approved in Europe without restrictions for pregnant women. Skin profile. Low to moderate irritation potential. Low allergen risk, but cross-reactions with birch pollen are possible in people with hay fever. Non-comedogenic. Suitable for all skin types. Moderate-strong evidence (B-A) thanks to Episalvan pharmaceutical data.
Frequently asked questions
Is Betula Alba Bark Extract safe during pregnancy?
Betula Alba Bark Extract is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Betula Alba Bark Extract for?
Betula Alba Bark Extract suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Betula Alba Bark Extract and what does it do in cosmetics?
Birch bark extract – a source of betulin and betulinic acid.
Is Betula Alba Bark Extract comedogenic?
On the Fulton scale 0/5 – non-comedogenic. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
What's the INCI name for Betula Alba Bark Extract?
The INCI name is Betula Alba (Birch) Bark Extract. It may also appear as: Betula Alba Bark Extract, Birch Bark Extract, Betulin.
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