Peltophorum Dasyrhachis 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 Peltophorum Dasyrhachis Bark Extract?

Peltophorum Dasyrhachis Bark Extract comes from the bark of Peltophorum dasyrhachis, a tall flowering tree in the Fabaceae family that thrives in tropical regions of Southeast Asia. The bark is naturally rich in sugars, polyphenols and moisture-binding tannins, ingredients that make it useful for caring for skin. Local communities have long boiled the bark for soothing washes and that traditional know-how inspired its entry into modern cosmetic science during the 1990s clean-beauty movement.

To create the cosmetic-grade extract, sustainably harvested bark is cleaned, dried and ground before undergoing gentle water or glycerin extraction. The liquid is then filtered, concentrated and preserved, resulting in a brownish fluid or powder that slips easily into skin care formulas.

Today you will most often spot Peltophorum Dasyrhachis Bark Extract in hydrating masks, daily moisturizers, after-sun gels, anti-aging serums and soothing lotions designed for sensitive or dehydrated skin.

Peltophorum Dasyrhachis Bark Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

Formulators turn to this botanical for two main reasons

  • Humectant: The extract attracts water from the environment and pulls it toward the skin surface, helping to keep the outer layer plump and comfortably hydrated without a greasy feel
  • Skin conditioning: Its mix of polyphenols and sugars softens rough patches, supports a smoother texture and leaves skin feeling calm and refreshed

Who Can Use Peltophorum Dasyrhachis Bark Extract

This gentle plant extract suits most skin types. Dry, sensitive or mature skin will often see the biggest boost thanks to its water-binding sugars. Oily and combination skin can also benefit because the ingredient hydrates without adding extra oil. Only those with a known allergy to Fabaceae plants or tree bark in general might need to be cautious, as cross-reactivity is possible.

The extract is entirely plant derived so it fits easily into vegan and vegetarian lifestyles. No animal-based substances or by-products are used during harvesting, extraction or preservation.

Current research shows no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the extract is used in normal cosmetic amounts. That said, this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should check with a doctor before adding new products to a routine.

Peltophorum Dasyrhachis Bark Extract does not make skin more sensitive to the sun, so it is not considered photosensitising. Standard daily sun protection is still recommended for overall skin health.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical ingredients differ from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects but most users will not experience them when the ingredient is formulated and used as intended.

  • Mild redness or flushing shortly after application, usually temporary
  • Itching or a tingling sensation in those with very reactive skin
  • Contact dermatitis marked by persistent rash in people allergic to Fabaceae plants
  • Stinging on broken or freshly exfoliated skin if the product contains a high level of the extract
  • Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes

If any of these reactions occur stop use right away and seek advice from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.

Comedogenic Rating

Comedogenic rating: 0-1 (essentially non comedogenic). Peltophorum Dasyrhachis Bark Extract is made up of water soluble sugars and polyphenols rather than heavy oils or waxes that can block pores. It is also used at low levels in most formulas so it almost never forms a film that traps sebum or debris.

Thanks to this very low pore clogging potential the extract is generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.

If a product teams the extract with thick butters or occlusive oils the overall formula could still feel heavy, so always look at the ingredient list as a whole when judging pore friendliness.

Summary

Peltophorum Dasyrhachis Bark Extract acts mainly as a humectant and skin conditioning agent. Its sugars bind water to plump and hydrate while its polyphenols smooth rough spots and leave skin feeling calm.

The extract is not a headline grabbing star yet but it is quietly popular with clean beauty brands looking for lightweight plant based hydration. You will see it most in hydrating masks, daily gels and soothing lotions.

Safety data and real world use show a low risk profile when the extract is used at normal cosmetic levels. Even so it is smart to patch test any new product that contains it before making it part of your regular routine.

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