What Is Lithospermum Officinale Extract?
Lithospermum Officinale Extract comes from the whole gromwell plant, a small flowering herb in the borage family that grows across Europe and parts of Asia. The roots and leaves are rich in shikonin pigments, flavonoids, rosmarinic acid and natural waxes that give the extract its purple-red hue and skin-loving properties.
Historical records show gromwell was once boiled to create a vibrant fabric dye and brewed into soothing balms for the skin. Modern formulators took note of its gentle aroma and protective phytochemicals and began adding a purified extract to personal care products in the late twentieth century.
To make the cosmetic grade ingredient the dried plant is macerated then soaked in a food-grade solvent such as ethanol or glycerin. The solution is filtered and the solvent is removed under low heat to concentrate the beneficial compounds. The result is a viscous liquid or powdered extract that disperses easily in both water- and oil-based formulas.
You will usually spot Lithospermum Officinale Extract in calming masks, recovery creams, daily moisturizers, after-sun lotions, baby care balms and even some color cosmetics where its natural tint and scent are an added perk.
Lithospermum Officinale Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators rely on this botanical for two main reasons
- Fragrance: delivers a soft herbal scent that helps mask raw material odors and gives a product a fresh naturally derived aroma without the need for synthetic perfume
- Skin protecting: antioxidants and soothing compounds create a light barrier on the skin help calm minor redness and support the skin’s defense against daily environmental stress
Who Can Use Lithospermum Officinale Extract
This extract is gentle enough for most skin types. Dry and sensitive complexions tend to appreciate its soothing nature while normal and oily skin benefit from the light, non-greasy finish. Only those with a known allergy to borage family plants may need to steer clear because cross-reactivity is possible.
Because the ingredient is entirely plant derived and does not involve animal by-products it lines up with vegan and vegetarian preferences, provided the finished product is also cruelty-free.
Current research shows no specific contraindications for topical use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, yet data are limited. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should have a doctor review their skin care routine to be on the safe side.
Lithospermum Officinale Extract is not known to trigger photosensitivity and can be worn during the day without increasing the risk of sunburn. Standard sun protection practices should still be followed.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Lithospermum Officinale Extract vary from person to person. The following points outline potential side effects although most users will not experience them when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Allergic contact dermatitis isolated cases of redness itching or small bumps in individuals allergic to gromwell or other Boraginaceae plants
- Mild irritation transient stinging or warmth on very reactive skin especially when layered with exfoliating acids or retinoids
- Temporary skin or fabric staining the natural purple-red pigments can leave a faint tint that usually washes off but may mark light clothing or towels
If any negative reaction occurs stop using the product and seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Lithospermum Officinale Extract is usually added at low levels and is made up mainly of lightweight pigments, flavonoids and small amounts of natural waxes. These components sit on the surface without clogging pores the way heavy oils or butters can. A score of 1 reflects the very low chance of it blocking follicles while still noting that thick formulas containing the extract alongside richer emollients might raise the overall comedogenic potential.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin in most cases.
If a product with this extract also contains high comedogenic oils, silicones or butters the final formula’s pore-clogging risk will depend on those ingredients more than on the extract itself.
Summary
Lithospermum Officinale Extract brings a light herbal scent and a mix of antioxidants, soothing agents and protective waxes that help calm skin and shield it from daily stress. It does this by forming a thin breathable layer that traps moisture, neutralises free radicals and softens the surface.
The ingredient is not a household name like aloe or green tea so it appears mainly in niche soothing creams, baby balms and some clean beauty lines, yet formulators who know it value the gentle benefits and natural tint it lends.
Current evidence points to a strong safety record with only rare allergic reactions. Still, skin can be unpredictable so it is wise to patch test any new product that lists Lithospermum Officinale Extract before full use.