Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Extract
Clary sage; source of essential oils and sclareol.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Plant extract. Clinically meaningful effect on human skin is not supported by robust evidence; data limited to in vitro / lab models.
How to read tiers A–F
- CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Medium
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Unknown
About this ingredient
Clary sage extract (Salvia Sclarea Extract) is an extract from the aerial parts of clary sage, a Mediterranean aromatic plant. Not to be confused with common sage (Salvia officinalis) – different species. Contains sclareol (a diterpene with phytoestrogen potential), linalool, linalyl acetate, flavonoids. Where applied. In niche formulas for mature, perimenopausal skin, anti-age serums claiming 'hormone balancing', face and body products with 'phytoestrogen' marketing (0.1-1%). On the Spanish market – in niche natural and aromatherapy lines. Evidence base. In vitro sclareol shows weak estrogen-like activity through ER-α and ER-β receptors. Topical clinical RCTs in humans with clary sage extract for anti-age purposes are isolated and not confirmed by large independent studies. Marketing exceeds the evidence. Safety. EU CosIng permits use, but the linalool and linalyl acetate content makes the extract moderately allergenic. People reactive to essential oils – use with caution. Long-term use on sensitive skin carries irritation risk. Phytoestrogen controversy. Patients with hormone-dependent tumors (breast, endometrial cancer) and endometriosis theoretically avoid meaningful phytoestrogen doses. At cosmetic concentrations systemic absorption is low and the SCCS does not classify the extract as a risk group, but in doubt consult the treating physician. Pregnancy and lactation – avoid. Sclareol's estrogen-like activity and the essential oil components make clary sage undesirable during pregnancy by aromatherapy association consensus. In lactation also avoid. Alternatives: niacinamide, peptides, bakuchiol.
Frequently asked questions
Is Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Extract safe during pregnancy?
Safety data for Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Extract during pregnancy is insufficient. Best avoided when in doubt.
Can Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Extract irritate the skin?
Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Extract has moderate irritation potential. Sensitive skin may show a transient reaction that usually settles with adaptation.
What is Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Extract and what does it do in cosmetics?
Clary sage; source of essential oils and sclareol.
What's the INCI name for Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Extract?
The INCI name is Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Extract.
See Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Extract in a product composition right on the store page
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