Baikal Skullcap Root Extract
Baikal skullcap root extract (Huang Qin). Contains baicalin and baicalein – flavonoids with anti-inflammatory activity in vitro. Popular K-beauty ingredient.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Accumulated in vitro data on anti-inflammatory effects. Human RCTs in skincare are rare, mostly as part of multi-ingredient formulas.
- Lu HT, Jiang Y, Chen F. J Chromatogr A. 2003;1017(1-2):117-123. DOI 10.1016/j.chroma.2003.08.012
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
- Caution
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Oily, Combination
- Use with caution
- Sensitive
About this ingredient
Baikal skullcap root extract (Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Huang Qin) is the most common and studied part of the plant. Traditional East Asian medicine has used the root for over 2000 years in inflammation, fever, infection. Contains concentrated flavonoids – baicalin (up to 12%), baicalein (up to 5%), wogonin, oroxylin A. Where applied. In K-beauty serums and creams with anti-inflammatory and anti-pollution marketing, in sensitive and problem skin products, in anti-aging photoaging formulas (0.1-2%). On the Spanish market – with niche K-beauty brands, in some Sesderma lines, individual ISDIN products. Evidence base. Baicalin and baicalein are the most studied skullcap flavonoids. In vitro they show anti-inflammatory action via cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase inhibition (Wakabayashi 1999), antioxidant activity comparable to vitamin E, inhibition of UV-induced matrix metalloproteinase activation (Min 2008). Topical clinical RCTs in humans with skullcap root extract – isolated pilot studies with improvement in rosacea and post-acne pigmentation. Evidence level – B/C. Pollution defense marketing. K-beauty formulas often market as defense against smog and heavy metals. Maeda 2014 showed in vitro binding of baicalin to heavy metal ions and inhibition of pollution-induced oxidative stress in keratinocyte cultures. Clinical relevance to skin of megacity residents needs confirmation. Safety. EU CosIng permits use. CIR has not issued a standalone review, but use experience is broad. Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic. Some patients with Lamiaceae allergy – use with caution. Pregnancy and lactation – use with caution. Systemically (oral intake) skullcap root extract in traditional East Asian medicine is used with restrictions in pregnancy – data suggest potential uterine stimulation and reduced progesterone synthesis at high doses. Topical systemic absorption is minimal, but due to lack of data manufacturers label CAUTION in pregnancy.
Frequently asked questions
Is Baikal Skullcap Root Extract safe during pregnancy?
Baikal Skullcap Root Extract should be used with caution during pregnancy. Consulting a dermatologist or OB-GYN is advisable.
What skin types is Baikal Skullcap Root Extract for?
Baikal Skullcap Root Extract suits: normal, dry, oily, combination. Use with caution in: sensitive.
What is Baikal Skullcap Root Extract and what does it do in cosmetics?
Baikal skullcap root extract (Huang Qin).
What's the INCI name for Baikal Skullcap Root Extract?
The INCI name is Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract. It may also appear as: Baikal Skullcap Extract, Huang Qin Extract.
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