Albizia Julibrissin Bark/Seed 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: June 23, 2025
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All information on this page is verified using The Personal Care Products Council's (PCPC) INCI database. Our ingredient analyses are based exclusively on PCPC's technical data to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Albizia Julibrissin Bark/Seed Extract?

Albizia Julibrissin Bark/Seed Extract comes from the bark and seeds of the silk tree, Albizia julibrissin, a member of the pea family. The bark and seeds are rich in natural sugars, amino acids and soothing plant compounds that help support the skin’s surface. Traditional herbal texts from Asia record the use of this tree for calming and comforting the skin, which led modern formulators to explore its cosmetic value. Today suppliers collect the bark and seeds, dry them, then run them through a gentle water or glycerin-water extraction. The filtered liquid is concentrated and preserved so it can be added to creams or serums without losing potency.

You will usually spot Albizia Julibrissin Bark/Seed Extract in products that aim to refresh tired skin, such as night creams, anti-fatigue eye gels, brightening masks, lightweight moisturizers and leave-on treatments that promise a smoother look.

Albizia Julibrissin Bark/Seed Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

Formulators choose this ingredient mainly for its skin-conditioning ability, which means it helps the surface of the skin feel softer, look smoother and stay comfortably hydrated. By coating the skin with its blend of sugars and amino acids, it supports the skin barrier so moisture loss is reduced and the complexion appears more radiant.

Who Can Use Albizia Julibrissin Bark/Seed Extract

This extract is gentle enough for most skin types, including dry, normal, combination and oily skin. People with easily irritated or sensitized skin usually tolerate it because it is not acidic or highly active, though anyone with a known allergy to legumes should proceed cautiously since the silk tree belongs to the pea family.

The ingredient is plant derived with no animal by-products, so it is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians.

Current safety data shows no specific issues for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, yet research in these groups is limited. This is not medical advice, and anyone who is expecting or nursing should ask a doctor before adding new skincare products to their routine.

Albizia Julibrissin Bark/Seed Extract has not been shown to increase photosensitivity, so daytime use does not require extra sun precautions beyond a standard broad-spectrum sunscreen.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Side effects from topical Albizia Julibrissin Bark/Seed Extract differ from person to person. The points below list potential reactions, but most users will not experience them when the ingredient is correctly formulated in a product.

  • Redness or flushing
  • Mild itching or stinging on application
  • Dry patches if combined with strong exfoliants
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in people sensitive to plants in the pea family

If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0–1. Albizia Julibrissin Bark/Seed Extract is supplied as a water- or glycerin-based solution that contains virtually no lipids, waxes or heavy residues that could clog pores. Its main components are lightweight plant sugars and amino acids that sit on the skin surface, then rinse or wear away without forming an occlusive film. Because of that, it is unlikely to trap oil or dead skin cells inside pores. In most standard formulas it is considered non-comedogenic and is generally suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin. If the extract appears in a very rich cream packed with heavier oils, pore-clogging risk would come from those oils not the extract itself.

Summary

Albizia Julibrissin Bark/Seed Extract is used mainly as a skin-conditioning agent that softens, smooths and boosts moisture retention. Its natural sugars bind water while amino acids help reinforce the surface barrier, leaving skin feeling supple and looking refreshed. Despite these benefits it is not a headline-grabbing ingredient, so you will usually find it tucked into the supporting cast of hydrating serums or night creams rather than starring in big marketing campaigns.

Current research and cosmetic usage data show the extract is safe for most people with minimal irritation potential. As with any new skincare ingredient it is smart to patch test a product first to rule out personal sensitivities before committing to full-face use.

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