Myrica Nagi 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: July 1, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Myrica Nagi Bark Extract?

Myrica Nagi Bark Extract is derived from the bark of the Myrica nagi tree, a member of the bayberry family that grows in parts of Asia’s Himalayan region. The bark is rich in natural tannins, flavonoids and triterpenes, compounds that help protect the tree from environmental stress. Local communities have long used the bark for its soothing and astringent qualities, which drew the attention of modern formulators looking for plant based ingredients that calm and smooth skin.

To produce the extract, harvested bark is dried, ground and then steeped in a water or water-alcohol solution. The liquid is filtered and concentrated, leaving behind a stable extract ready for cosmetic use. Because it is lightweight and compatible with many other ingredients, manufacturers add it to face masks, daily moisturizers, anti-aging creams, after-shave balms, scalp treatments and gentle cleansers.

Myrica Nagi Bark Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

In skin care formulas Myrica Nagi Bark Extract serves primarily as a skin-conditioning agent. It helps soften and smooth the surface of the skin, reduces the feeling of tightness after cleansing and supports a more comfortable moisture balance throughout the day.

Who Can Use Myrica Nagi Bark Extract

Myrica Nagi Bark Extract is generally well tolerated by most skin types, including normal, dry, combination and oily skin. Its mild astringent quality can even help balance sebum on oilier complexions while the conditioning effect supports drier areas. Those with very sensitive or highly reactive skin should introduce products containing the extract gradually, because the natural tannins may feel slightly tightening on delicate skin.

The ingredient is plant derived and produced without animal by-products, so it is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians.

No specific contraindications have been noted for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the extract is used topically in cosmetic amounts. This is not medical advice; anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review any new skincare product with a qualified healthcare provider.

Myrica Nagi Bark Extract is not known to increase photosensitivity, so it can be used in daytime or nighttime formulas without extra sun precautions beyond a standard broad-spectrum sunscreen.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Individual responses to topical Myrica Nagi Bark Extract can vary. The effects listed below are potential outcomes and are unlikely to occur for most users when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.

  • Temporary redness or warmth
  • Mild stinging on very sensitive or freshly exfoliated skin
  • Dry or tight feeling if overused on already dehydrated skin
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in rare cases of botanical allergy

If you experience any of the above reactions stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5

Myrica Nagi Bark Extract is water based and contains mainly tannins, flavonoids and other polyphenols rather than heavy oils or waxes, so it does not form a film that traps sebum or debris in pores. Because of this it is very unlikely to cause blackheads or pimples, making it suitable for acne-prone and breakout-prone skin.

Only the overall formula matters: if the extract appears in a cream rich in comedogenic butters the product as a whole could still clog pores, but the extract itself is non-comedogenic.

Summary

Myrica Nagi Bark Extract conditions skin by softening surface texture, providing a mild astringent effect that can refine the look of pores and delivering antioxidants that help neutralize everyday environmental stress. These benefits come from its natural mix of tannins, flavonoids and triterpenes working together to support a smoother, more comfortable complexion.

The ingredient is still a niche choice compared with big names like green tea or chamomile, but its plant-based profile and gentle performance are earning it steady interest among formulators who want alternatives to more familiar extracts.

Overall safety is high: adverse reactions are uncommon and the extract is non-comedogenic, vegan friendly and not known to increase photosensitivity. As with any new skincare product it is wise to do a small patch test first to be sure your skin agrees with the complete formula.

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