What Is Rhus Cotinus Leaf Extract?
Rhus Cotinus Leaf Extract comes from the leaves of the smoke tree, Rhus cotinus, a small shrub that grows in parts of Europe and Asia. The leaves are rich in natural tannins and flavonoids, two groups of plant compounds known for calming and protective qualities on skin. Herbal healers once used smoke tree leaves in soothing poultices and washes, and this folk use caught the eye of modern formulators looking for gentle plant-based actives.
To make the extract, harvested leaves are dried, milled, then soaked in a mix of water and food-grade solvents. The liquid that draws out the beneficial molecules is filtered, concentrated, and finally standardized so each batch offers consistent performance. The finished extract is a brownish fluid or powder that blends well with both water-based and some oil-based formulas.
You will most often spot Rhus Cotinus Leaf Extract in masks, toners, light lotions, anti-aging serums, after-sun products, and calming spot treatments. Brands value it because it partners well with other botanicals, helping round out gentle, skin-friendly formulas.
Rhus Cotinus Leaf Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In skin care, this ingredient is prized mainly for one key job.
Skin conditioning: Rhus Cotinus Leaf Extract helps soften and smooth the skin surface while adding a light veil of comfort. The tannins mildly tighten the look of pores, and the flavonoids support the skin’s natural barrier, leaving a refreshed, balanced feel.
Who Can Use Rhus Cotinus Leaf Extract
Most skin types can benefit from this gentle plant extract. Normal, combination, oily and slightly sensitive skin often appreciate its lightweight soothing feel and the subtle pore refining effect of the natural tannins. Very dry or highly reactive skin may find it a bit too astringent if used in strong concentrations so those users should look for lower percentages or more hydrating supporting ingredients.
The extract is plant derived and contains no animal byproducts so it is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians. Manufacturing typically relies on water or food grade alcohol as the solvent rather than animal sourced carriers.
No research points to the extract itself posing special risks to women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. That said this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should run any new skincare product past a doctor just to be on the safe side.
Rhus Cotinus Leaf Extract does not increase photosensitivity. Standard daytime sun protection is still encouraged but there is no need to avoid sunlight specifically because of this ingredient.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Rhus Cotinus Leaf Extract vary from person to person. The following list covers potential side effects although most users will not encounter them when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Mild stinging or burning in very sensitive skin, especially if the formula is high in tannins
- Redness or irritation when layered with other strong exfoliants or astringents
- Contact allergy leading to itching or small rash in individuals sensitive to plants in the Anacardiaceae family
- Temporary dryness or tight feeling if applied repeatedly without adequate moisturiser
- Light brown staining of fabric or skin if the extract is highly concentrated and not fully absorbed
If any of these reactions occur discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Rhus Cotinus Leaf Extract is mostly water soluble and contains very little oil so it is unlikely to clog pores. The tannins even have a mild astringent action that can help keep excess surface oil in check. Because it sits light on the skin and does not leave a heavy film, it earns a low score of 1 rather than a perfect 0, simply acknowledging that any botanical with natural compounds could, in rare cases, congest extremely reactive skin.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin in most formulations.
If the finished product also contains rich butters or occlusive waxes the overall formula, not the extract itself, may push the comedogenic risk higher.
Summary
Rhus Cotinus Leaf Extract conditions skin by softening the surface, lending a subtle pore-tightening feel and supporting the natural barrier with antioxidant flavonoids. These benefits stem from its naturally occurring tannins, flavonoids and gentle polyphenols that calm, balance and lightly refresh.
While not as famous as green tea or chamomile, this smoke tree leaf extract is gaining quiet traction in masks, toners and soothing serums aimed at those who want plant-based care without heavy oils.
Current data and long history of folk use point to a high safety profile, with only occasional irritation in very sensitive users. As with any new skincare ingredient it is wise to patch test a product first to make sure your skin agrees with it.