Byttneria Andamanensis Bark Extract: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 23, 2025
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All information on this page is verified using publicly available nomenclature standards and reference materials from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) and the European Commission's CosIng database. Our analyses are based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Byttneria Andamanensis Bark Extract?

Byttneria Andamanensis Bark Extract comes from the bark of Byttneria andamanensis, a small tree that grows in the Andaman Islands of India and belongs to the Sterculiaceae plant family. The bark is naturally rich in plant acids, flavonoids and gentle sugars that can coat and protect hair strands.

Local communities have long used the bark in water infusions to smooth and style hair. When modern formulators noticed its natural holding and conditioning ability they began to include it in salon and at-home hair products.

To make the cosmetic-grade extract the bark is harvested, dried and ground, then soaked in a mix of water and food-grade alcohol. This pulls out the useful compounds which are then filtered and concentrated into a thick, amber-colored liquid.

You will usually find Byttneria Andamanensis Bark Extract in leave-in conditioners, hair gels, curl creams, straightening balms and setting sprays. It can also appear in nourishing hair masks and heat-protective serums.

Byttneria Andamanensis Bark Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This plant extract offers several helpful actions for hair care products.

  • Hair conditioning – the natural sugars and acids form a light film on each strand, locking in moisture, boosting softness and reducing static
  • Hair fixing – its film-forming ability provides gentle hold so styles last longer without a stiff or crunchy feel
  • Hair waving or straightening – when combined with heat tools or setting techniques it helps reshape the hair fiber so curls look more defined or straight styles stay sleek

Who Can Use Byttneria Andamanensis Bark Extract

Because it is a lightweight plant film former this extract is well tolerated by most hair and scalp types, including oily, normal, dry, fine and damaged hair. It is gentle enough for sensitive scalps yet offers enough hold for thicker strands. There are no known concerns for people with common skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis, though individual sensitivity can always vary.

The ingredient is 100 percent plant derived and processed without animal derivatives so it is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians.

Current safety data show no specific warnings for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the extract is used topically in rinse-off or leave-on hair products. This information is educational only, not medical advice, and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review all personal care products with a qualified healthcare provider to be certain they meet individual needs.

Byttneria Andamanensis Bark Extract does not make skin or hair more sensitive to sunlight and it has no known interactions with UV exposure. It is also free of common allergens such as gluten, soy and animal proteins.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Byttneria Andamanensis Bark Extract can differ from person to person. The points below describe potential side effects yet most users will not experience them when the ingredient is correctly formulated and used as directed.

  • Scalp redness or itching
  • Mild contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to the plant family
  • Product buildup that leads to dullness if used in very high concentrations or not washed out regularly
  • Flaking or residue when combined with high alcohol styling products

If any irritation or unwanted reaction occurs stop use immediately and seek advice from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1 / 5

Byttneria Andamanensis Bark Extract is primarily composed of water-soluble sugars, flavonoids and mild organic acids that rinse away easily and leave only a thin breathable film on the surface of skin or hair. It contains virtually no heavy oils or waxes that could block pores, which is why it earns a low score of 1.

Suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.

Keep in mind the overall formula matters; if the extract appears in an oily pomade or rich butter the end product could still be pore clogging even though the extract itself is not.

Summary

Byttneria Andamanensis Bark Extract works as a natural hair conditioner, fixer and reshaping aid. Its plant sugars create a soft film that draws in moisture, reduces static and adds light hold while heat sets the hair in waves or sleek styles. Although effective, it remains a niche botanical and is most often found in specialty or eco-focused hair care lines rather than mass-market products.

Current data show it is safe for topical use with a very low risk of irritation when properly formulated. As with any new cosmetic ingredient it is wise to perform a quick patch test when trying a product that features this extract, especially if you have a history of sensitivities.

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