What Is Lithospermum Root Extract Serum Albumin Succinate?
Lithospermum Root Extract Serum Albumin Succinate comes from two main sources: the red-purple roots of the Lithospermum erythrorhizone plant and serum albumin, a protein most often taken from animal milk or blood. The plant root has been used for centuries in East Asian skin care to calm the skin and give a healthy tint. Modern chemists pair the root extract with serum albumin that has been treated with succinic acid, a natural acid found in sugar beets and sugar cane. By linking the plant compounds to the protein, they create a stable water-soluble ingredient that spreads easily on skin and delivers the root’s actives more evenly.
Production starts with gentle water or alcohol extraction of the dried roots to pull out pigment molecules and soothing phytochemicals. Separately, serum albumin is reacted with succinic anhydride, which adds small acid groups to the protein. The two parts are then mixed under controlled pH and temperature so the succinate groups bond with the plant molecules, forming a uniform complex. After filtering and drying, the result is a fine powder or liquid concentrate used by cosmetic formulators.
You will most often see Lithospermum Root Extract Serum Albumin Succinate in leave-on products where close contact with the skin matters: lightweight serums, sheet masks, anti aging moisturizers, overnight creams, calming spot treatments, after-sun gels and color-correcting bases.
Lithospermum Root Extract Serum Albumin Succinate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
When added to a formula, this ingredient focuses on one key area that boosts overall skin feel and appearance.
Skin conditioning: The complex coats the surface of the skin, helping it feel softer, smoother and more supple. The protein portion forms a thin breathable film that holds moisture while the plant extract delivers gentle antioxidants and calming compounds. Together they can reduce the look of dryness, improve makeup laydown and give the skin a more refined texture.
Who Can Use Lithospermum Root Extract Serum Albumin Succinate
This ingredient is generally well tolerated by normal, dry, oily and combination skin because it is lightweight and non greasy yet still offers a soft moisture film. Sensitive skin usually does fine with it too thanks to the calming plant compounds, though anyone highly reactive to new proteins should be cautious.
Because the serum albumin part is derived from animal sources the ingredient is not suitable for vegans or strict vegetarians. If a brand states the albumin is obtained from milk rather than blood some lacto-vegetarians may feel comfortable, but those avoiding all animal by-products will want to skip it.
Current data shows no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women, however this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should ask their doctor before adding a new product.
The complex does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and can be used morning or night without increasing the need for sunscreen beyond normal daily protection.
No other special precautions are noted aside from standard cleanliness and storage away from high heat or direct sun to keep the protein component stable.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Lithospermum Root Extract Serum Albumin Succinate can vary person to person. The points below outline potential issues, though most users will not experience them when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.
- Mild redness or stinging especially on very sensitive or compromised skin
- Allergic response to animal protein such as itching hives or swelling in those with existing albumin allergy
- Contact dermatitis from sensitivity to plant compounds in the root extract
- Temporary surface staining a faint pink tint on very light skin if high concentrations are left on without full absorption
- Clogged pores or small breakouts in people highly prone to acne though the risk is considered low
If any unwanted reaction occurs stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5
Lithospermum Root Extract Serum Albumin Succinate is primarily water soluble and forms a thin breathable protein film rather than an oily layer that might block pores. The plant extract portion is light and not rich in heavy lipids. For these reasons it sits low on the comedogenic scale.
Because of its low rating most acne prone or breakout prone users should tolerate it well in well-formulated products.
If this complex is paired with rich butters or waxes the finished product could feel heavier and raise the overall pore-clogging potential, so the full ingredient list matters.
Summary
Lithospermum Root Extract Serum Albumin Succinate conditions skin by laying down a micro-thin protein veil that locks in water while the root extract supplies gentle antioxidants and calming agents. Together they soften surface texture and give a smoother look.
The ingredient is still a niche player seen mainly in select Asian inspired serums masks and soothing creams rather than on every store shelf, but formulators value its blend of traditional plant benefits and modern delivery.
Safety data shows it is generally low risk with the main cautions tied to potential albumin or plant allergies. As with any new skincare product it is wise to perform a small patch test first to make sure your skin is happy.