Alangium Salviifolium Bark Powder: 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: June 23, 2025
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All information on this page is verified using publicly available nomenclature standards and reference materials from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) and the European Commission's CosIng database. Our analyses are based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Alangium Salviifolium Bark Powder?

Alangium Salviifolium Bark Powder is a plant-based ingredient made by drying and finely grinding the bark of the Alangium salviifolium tree, a small deciduous tree native to South and Southeast Asia. The bark is naturally rich in simple sugars, tannins, and small amounts of flavonoids, elements that help the skin feel smoother and more comfortable when applied in a cream or mask.

The tree’s bark has been used in traditional self-care practices for centuries, mostly as a soothing paste for the skin. Modern formulators noticed those calming traits and began adding the ground bark to topical products. Today the bark is harvested, cleaned, sun-dried, then milled into a fine powder that blends easily with water, oils, and other cosmetic bases.

You will most often see Alangium Salviifolium Bark Powder in wash-off masks, clay blends, gentle scrubs, moisturizing lotions, and some anti-aging or post-sun treatments that aim to leave the skin soft and refreshed.

Alangium Salviifolium Bark Powder’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

In skin care formulas Alangium Salviifolium Bark Powder serves primarily as a skin-conditioning agent, meaning it helps improve how the skin looks and feels after application. It can:

Attract and hold a light film of moisture on the surface, making the skin feel smoother and more supple

Soften rough patches so other actives spread more evenly and work more effectively

Who Can Use Alangium Salviifolium Bark Powder

This bark powder is generally gentle enough for normal, dry, oily and combination skin. Its light moisture-binding nature helps dry skin feel softer while its low oil content keeps it from feeling heavy on oilier types. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it well, yet anyone with a known tree-bark or plant allergy should approach with caution because natural tannins could trigger irritation.

The ingredient is plant derived, contains no animal by-products and is processed without animal testing in most supply chains, so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians.

No data suggest that Alangium Salviifolium Bark Powder poses a unique risk to women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when used topically. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should check with a healthcare professional before adding new skincare items, just to be safe.

The powder does not make skin more sensitive to the sun and has no known interactions with common photo-sensitizing treatments. Regular daytime sun protection is still recommended as part of any routine.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Alangium Salviifolium Bark Powder vary from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects that could occur in rare cases. Most users will not experience these issues when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.

  • Mild redness or itching
  • Dry or tight feeling if the formula lacks additional moisturizers
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to plant tannins
  • Stinging on broken or compromised skin

If any discomfort, persistent redness or swelling develops stop use at once and consult a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1 / 5

Alangium Salviifolium Bark Powder is virtually oil free and forms a breathable, lightweight film on the skin rather than an occlusive layer that might trap debris in pores. Because it is most often used in wash-off masks or low-oil lotions it has very little chance of clogging follicles, earning a low score of 1. Those prone to acne or frequent breakouts can generally use it without concern. Keep in mind that the overall formula matters, so if the powder is blended with rich butters or heavy oils the finished product could feel more pore blocking.

Summary

Alangium Salviifolium Bark Powder is mainly valued for gentle skin conditioning. Its natural sugars attract a whisper of moisture while tannins help smooth uneven texture, leaving the surface softer and more comfortable. Although it has a long history in traditional care it remains a niche ingredient in modern cosmetics, appearing mostly in regional herbal brands and select indie formulations rather than mass-market lines.

Topically it is considered low risk, with only isolated reports of mild irritation tied to plant tannin sensitivity. Overall it is vegan friendly, sustainably sourced and safe for most skin types. As with any new skincare ingredient it is wise to patch test before full use to confirm personal tolerance.

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