INCI: Theobroma Cacao Extract
Cocoa seed extract. Contains flavonoids (catechins, epicatechins) with in vitro antioxidant activity. Often a marketing ingredient in skincare.
Topical application
DVery weak or conflicting data.
In vitro antioxidant potential. No clinical RCTs.
Cocoa Seed Extract (Theobroma Cacao Seed Extract) is an extract of Theobroma cacao seeds (not to be confused with cocoa butter – butter extracts the fat fraction, the extract takes the polyphenol fraction). Active components: flavonoids (catechins, epicatechins, proanthocyanidins), theobromine, caffeine, anthocyanins. Where applied. Antioxidant serums and creams, anti-photoaging products, masks, anti-cellulite creams, body products. Concentration 0.1-2%. In Spain – in Sesderma Daeses, Mádara, Freshly Cosmetics, Heliocare 360 Antioxidant. Mechanism. Cocoa polyphenols neutralize free radicals in vitro, suppress MMP-1 (photoaging), stimulate microcirculation (via theobromine and caffeine). Anthocyanins are antioxidants protecting from UV. Dietary cocoa polyphenol intake (50-100 mg/day) is associated with improved endothelial function (Hooper 2012). Evidence base. RCTs on topical cocoa extract are few. In vitro – antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity (Scapagnini 2014). Dietary RCTs (Heinrich 2006, Williams 2009): oral intake of 320-329 mg of cocoa polyphenols daily for 12 weeks improved skin hydration by 25% and reduced post-UV erythema by 15-25%. Topical use is clinically less studied. Safety. CIR confirmed safety at cosmetic concentrations. Allergic reactions are rare, isolated cases described in cocoa-bean-allergic patients. Does not photosensitize. Theobromine and caffeine controversy. At cosmetic concentrations skin systemic absorption is minimal. Topical use in children and pregnancy is safe. Oral cocoa-extract supplements in pregnancy – individualized decision (caffeine intake is recommended below 200 mg/day). Pregnancy and lactation – safe topically. Acceptable at any stage on any area. For the nipple during breastfeeding pure emollients are preferable. Suitable for. Anti-aging care, photoaging, dull skin. More often a marketing ingredient than a primary active – do not expect a strong effect. Real efficacy comes from other formula ingredients (retinol, niacinamide, vitamin C).
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
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Cocoa Seed Extract is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Cocoa Seed Extract suits: normal, dry, oily, combination. Use with caution in: sensitive.
Cocoa seed extract.
The INCI name is Theobroma Cacao Extract. It may also appear as: Theobroma Cacao Seed Extract, Cocoa Seed Extract, Cocoa Extract.
Published: · updated:
Suitable for
Use with caution