Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract
Ginkgo biloba leaf extract with flavonoids and terpenoids. In cosmetics claimed as antioxidant and microcirculation ingredient, commonly in eye-area products.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Antioxidant activity of flavonoids confirmed in vitro. Topical clinical studies on skin are small and heterogeneous. Caution during pregnancy due to systemic effects of ginkgo.
- Abdellatif AAH, Alhumaydhi FA, Al Rugaie O, et al. Ginkgo biloba leaves extract's cosmeceutical evaluation: a preliminary assessment on human volunteers towards achieving improved skin condition and rejuvenation. Drug Dev Ind Pharm. 2023;49(3):1-12.. PMID 37074796
How to read tiers A–F
- CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Caution
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination
- Use with caution
- Sensitive
About this ingredient
Ginkgo biloba leaf extract is obtained from the leaves of Ginkgo biloba – a relict tree, the only surviving species of the Ginkgoopsida class. Composition. Flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol, isorhamnetin), terpenoids (ginkgolides A, B, C, bilobalide), organic acids. Where applied. Antioxidant creams and serums, eye-area products, dark-circle and couperose products. In Spain in Sesderma, Mesoestetic, Endocare lines. Mechanism. Claimed activity – improved microcirculation via inhibition of platelet-activating factor (PAF). On skin this theoretically reduces periorbital edema and dark circles. Evidence base. Systemic (oral) in vascular disease – Cochrane Review 2009 (Birks) showed modest effect. Topical eye-area RCTs are few; data rest on ingredient complexes (Eyeliss, Haloxyl) containing ginkgo extract. Safety. CIR confirmed safety. Contact reactions rare. Cross-reactivity possible in patients with ginkgo pollen allergy (rare). Pregnancy – use with caution. Oral ginkgo is contraindicated in pregnancy – inhibits platelet aggregation, increases bleeding risk (Dugoua 2006). Topically at cosmetic concentrations no direct contraindications, but avoid as a precaution. Lactation – no data.
Frequently asked questions
Is Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract safe during pregnancy?
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract should be used with caution during pregnancy. Consulting a dermatologist or OB-GYN is advisable.
What skin types is Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract for?
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract suits: normal, dry, combination. Use with caution in: sensitive.
What is Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract and what does it do in cosmetics?
Ginkgo biloba leaf extract with flavonoids and terpenoids.
What's the INCI name for Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract?
The INCI name is Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract. It may also appear as: Ginkgo Biloba Extract.
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