Cedrela Sinensis Leaf 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 24, 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 Cedrela Sinensis Leaf Extract?

Cedrela Sinensis Leaf Extract is a plant-derived ingredient obtained from the leaves of the Cedrela sinensis tree, a member of the mahogany family. The leaves are naturally rich in flavonoids and other antioxidants that help fend off environmental stressors. Traditional East Asian botanicals first highlighted the calming and protective traits of this tree, which encouraged modern formulators to explore its cosmetic value.

To create the extract, harvested leaves are gently dried then soaked in a food-grade solvent such as water or a mix of water and glycerin. After steeping, the liquid is filtered and concentrated, yielding a brownish solution packed with skin-loving compounds. Because the process relies on mild temperatures and eco-friendly solvents, the final extract keeps many of the plant’s original antioxidants intact.

You will most often spot Cedrela Sinensis Leaf Extract in soothing masks, daily moisturizers, anti-pollution serums and after-sun gels where it lends protective and calming support.

Cedrela Sinensis Leaf Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This leaf-derived extract is valued for one primary role in skincare formulas.

Skin protecting: The antioxidants in Cedrela sinensis leaves help neutralize free radicals formed by UV light and pollution, which can age skin over time. By reducing this oxidative stress the extract supports a healthier looking complexion, making it a useful add-on in products designed for urban environments or post-sun care.

Who Can Use Cedrela Sinensis Leaf Extract

Cedrela Sinensis Leaf Extract is generally well tolerated by most skin types, including dry, normal, oily and combination skin. Its calming antioxidant profile makes it a gentle option for sensitive skin too, as it is not known to clog pores or trigger excess oil production.

The extract is plant based and processed without animal derived solvents, so it aligns with vegan and vegetarian lifestyles.

Current data does not flag any specific concerns for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. That said, this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should confirm product choices with a qualified healthcare professional.

The ingredient is not photo-sensitizing, meaning it will not increase skin’s vulnerability to the sun. Standard daytime sun protection practices still apply when using products that contain it.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Cedrela Sinensis Leaf Extract can vary from person to person. The following points outline potential side effects, though most users experience none of these when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.

  • Mild redness or irritation in very sensitive individuals
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in persons with a specific botanical allergy
  • Stinging sensation if applied to compromised or broken skin

If you experience any of these reactions discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5. Cedrela Sinensis Leaf Extract is primarily a water-soluble antioxidant blend with virtually no oil or wax content so it does not sit in pores or create the kind of occlusive film that can trap debris. Most formulas use it at low percentages, further reducing any pore-clogging risk. This makes the ingredient suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin. Because it is typically paired with lightweight bases, it seldom alters the overall comedogenic profile of a finished product.

Summary

Cedrela Sinensis Leaf Extract is used in cosmetics for its skin-protecting power thanks to naturally occurring flavonoids that scavenge free radicals and help calm irritation from UV light or pollution. While not a blockbuster ingredient, it is gaining quiet traction in Korean and clean beauty lines that emphasize gentle botanical protection.

Overall safety data are favorable with few reported reactions and no known systemic concerns. Still, individual sensitivities vary so it is wise to patch test any new product that contains the extract before full-face use.

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