Cynanchum Atratum Extract

Tolerability and safety

Irritation potential

Low

Allergen risk

Low

Pregnancy

Unknown

About this ingredient

Cynanchum Atratum Extract is derived from the root of the East Asian medicinal plant Cynanchum atratum, known in traditional Chinese medicine as Bai Wei. Used for fevers and skin inflammation. Composition. Glycosides, flavonoids, phenolic compounds. Active molecules – cynanchosides A-D. In lab models the extract inhibits tyrosinase and suppresses melanogenesis, hence its positioning as a brightening ingredient. Mechanism. In vitro the extract suppresses melanin formation in B16 melanocytes, reduces tyrosinase and TRP-1 expression. On human skin a similar action is assumed – tyrosinase inhibition in epidermal melanocytes. Where applied. K-beauty serums and essences against pigmentation, tone-evening products, post-acne pigmentation products, Asian masks. In Spain it appears in niche Korean and Japanese lines, less often in Sesderma and Mediderma. Evidence base. Han 2018 in vitro work showed 30-40% tyrosinase inhibition at 0.5% concentration. No human RCTs directly confirming an effect on hyperpigmentation. Marketing claims rely on lab data. Safety. CIR has not issued a direct evaluation of the extract. By the class profile of botanical extracts – low irritation and allergy risk on topical application. Systemic absorption is low. Pregnancy and lactation – with caution. Cynanchum atratum was used cautiously in traditional medicine during pregnancy (potential uterine tonic effect). Topical cosmetic concentrations are likely safe, but no direct data. Best suited to: hyperpigmentation, post-acne spots, melasma within a multi-component brightening program. Not first-line – proven molecules (azelaic acid, niacinamide, hydroquinone, tretinoin, cysteamine) work more reliably.

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