Sambucus Nigra (Black Elderberry) Fruit Extract
A black elderberry extract with anthocyanins. An antioxidant that supports skin defense. Well tolerated.
Evidence by route
Topical application
An antioxidant plant extract. Safe.
- CIR Cosmetic Ingredient Review safety assessment
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
Black elderberry fruit extract (INCI Sambucus Nigra Fruit Extract) comes from the berries and supplies anthocyanins and other flavonoids. In cosmetics it is added for antioxidant action, usually in creams and serums aimed at anti-aging care and protection. On efficacy: the antioxidant activity of anthocyanins is documented in the lab, but clinical skin studies are scarce. It is reasonable to treat it as a supporting component rather than an active that delivers a noticeable result on its own. It does its job alongside better-studied antioxidants. Applied topically it has no systemic effect, so it can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The tolerance profile is favorable: low irritation and low allergy risk, including for sensitive skin. As with any plant extract an individual reaction cannot be fully ruled out, though most people have none.
Frequently asked questions
Is Sambucus Nigra (Black Elderberry) Fruit Extract safe during pregnancy?
Sambucus Nigra (Black Elderberry) Fruit Extract is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Sambucus Nigra (Black Elderberry) Fruit Extract for?
Sambucus Nigra (Black Elderberry) Fruit Extract suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Sambucus Nigra (Black Elderberry) Fruit Extract and what does it do in cosmetics?
A black elderberry extract with anthocyanins.
What's the INCI name for Sambucus Nigra (Black Elderberry) Fruit Extract?
The INCI name is Sambucus Nigra Fruit Extract. It may also appear as: Black Elderberry Fruit Extract.
See Sambucus Nigra (Black Elderberry) Fruit Extract in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Similar role in the formula
Explore by category
Published: · updated: