What Is Broussonetia Papyrifera Bark Extract?
Broussonetia Papyrifera Bark Extract comes from the bark of the paper mulberry tree, a fast-growing plant native to East Asia that has long been valued for making traditional paper and cloth. Chemically the bark is rich in flavonoids, phenolic acids and natural sugars, all of which can soothe skin and support moisture balance. Modern cosmetic labs obtain the extract by drying the bark, grinding it into a fine powder then soaking it in a water-or-glycol mixture to draw out the skin-friendly compounds. After filtration and concentration the liquid extract is standardized for consistent quality before being blended into formulas. You will most often see it in brightening serums, daily moisturizers, sheet masks, anti-aging creams and targeted spot treatments where a gentle conditioning boost is wanted.
Broussonetia Papyrifera Bark Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In skincare this botanical serves one main purpose that makes it a welcome addition to a wide range of products.
As a skin-conditioning agent Broussonetia Papyrifera Bark Extract helps keep the surface of the skin soft, supple and comfortable. Its natural sugars attract water to improve hydration while its flavonoids offer a calming effect that can ease the look of temporary redness. When included in a formula the extract supports a smoother texture, enhances the overall feel of the product and can make other beneficial ingredients perform more effectively by maintaining a healthy moisture barrier.
Who Can Use Broussonetia Papyrifera Bark Extract
This extract is considered gentle enough for all major skin types including dry, oily, combination and sensitive skin because its main role is to condition rather than exfoliate or strip. Those with very reactive skin should still keep an eye on how their skin feels as every complexion is unique, but the ingredient on its own carries a low irritation risk.
Because it is derived solely from plant bark with no animal by-products involved, Broussonetia Papyrifera Bark Extract is suitable for vegans and vegetarians as long as the finished formula has not been tested on animals.
Current research shows no specific hazards for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the extract is used topically and in standard cosmetic concentrations. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review any new skincare product with their healthcare provider to be extra safe.
The extract does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it is not considered a photosensitizer. Normal daily sun protection is still recommended to keep skin healthy overall.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Broussonetia Papyrifera Bark Extract vary from person to person. The points below list potential but unlikely side effects if the ingredient has been added to a product at a responsible level.
- Redness or mild stinging on very sensitive skin
- Itching or small rash due to a personal allergy to mulberry species
- Dry patches if combined with overly strong actives such as high level exfoliating acids
If any of these effects occur stop using the product and consult a qualified medical professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 – 1/5. Broussonetia Papyrifera Bark Extract is water based and contains almost no pore clogging oils or waxes, so it sits very light on the skin. Its main components are flavonoids and natural sugars that dissolve readily and rinse away cleanly, which keeps residue from building inside pores. Because of this it is generally considered safe for acne prone or breakout prone skin. No data suggests it worsens blackheads or whiteheads, though the finished formula it appears in could shift the overall comedogenicity, so always check the full ingredient list.
Summary
Broussonetia Papyrifera Bark Extract is a plant derived skin conditioner that boosts hydration, calms visible redness and leaves the surface feeling smooth by drawing water into the upper layers and reinforcing the moisture barrier. It is not yet a headline making ingredient like hyaluronic acid or niacinamide, but formulators value it for its gentle profile and you will spot it more often in K-beauty style serums, sheet masks and daily creams aimed at sensitive or dull skin.
Current research shows it has a low irritation and allergy risk and it ranks at the very bottom of the comedogenic scale, so most users can enjoy its benefits without worry. As with any new skincare product it is smart to run a quick patch test first to confirm personal tolerance.