What Is Coix Lacryma-Jobi Ma-Yuen Bran Extract?
Coix Lacryma-Jobi Ma-Yuen Bran Extract comes from the outer layer of the seeds of Coix lacryma-jobi ssp. ma-yuen, a grain also known as Job’s tears. The bran is rich in water-binding sugars, proteins, minerals and small amounts of natural oils that help skin hold moisture. Traditional East Asian beauty rituals have long used ground Job’s tears to soften and brighten the complexion, and modern formulators picked up on those folk practices when looking for gentle plant-based hydrators.
To make the extract, cleaned bran is soaked in a solvent such as water, glycerin or propanediol, then gently heated so the beneficial compounds dissolve. The mixture is filtered to remove solids and the liquid is concentrated to create a stable ingredient that blends well into creams and gels.
You will most often spot Coix Lacryma-Jobi Ma-Yuen Bran Extract in hydrating toners, light lotions, sheet masks, soothing after-sun gels, hand creams and any formula that promises long-lasting moisture or a dewy finish.
Coix Lacryma-Jobi Ma-Yuen Bran Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient is valued for one key role in skin care
As a humectant, it attracts water from both the environment and the deeper layers of the skin, then holds it at the surface. This boosts immediate hydration, plumps fine lines for a smoother look and helps other actives spread more evenly through the formula.
Who Can Use Coix Lacryma-Jobi Ma-Yuen Bran Extract
This bran-derived humectant is gentle enough for most skin types. Dry, normal and combination skin tend to see the biggest benefit because the extract pulls extra moisture to the surface. Oily or acne-prone skin can also use it since it adds water rather than heavy oils and it has a very low likelihood of clogging pores. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it well because the extract is non-acidic and free of common irritants.
Because it is plant derived with no animal components, products featuring Coix Lacryma-Jobi Ma-Yuen Bran Extract fit easily into vegan and vegetarian routines.
Current safety data do not flag any specific concerns for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is applied topically in standard cosmetic amounts. This is not medical advice, so anyone who is expecting or nursing should still run their full skincare lineup past a qualified healthcare provider to be sure every ingredient suits their individual situation.
The extract does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight, so there is no extra need for photo-protection beyond a normal daily sunscreen habit.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
- Mild redness or stinging on very reactive skin
- Itching or rash in people with a pre-existing grain or seed allergy
- Contact dermatitis if formula contains residual solvent traces a user cannot tolerate
If irritation or any other negative effect appears stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
Coix Lacryma-Jobi Ma-Yuen Bran Extract is almost entirely made up of water-loving sugars, proteins and minerals with negligible oil content so it does not form an occlusive film that could trap sebum or debris in pores. As a result it earns a solid zero on the comedogenic scale.
That means the ingredient is generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts. Only if it is blended into a formula that also contains heavier oils or waxes would the overall product’s pore-clogging risk go up so always check the full ingredient list.
Summary
Coix Lacryma-Jobi Ma-Yuen Bran Extract acts mainly as a humectant, drawing water from the air and deeper skin layers then holding it at the surface to keep skin soft hydrated and lightly plumped. This boost in moisture also helps other skincare actives spread evenly and work more effectively.
While not yet a household name the extract is gaining steady popularity in hydrating toners gels and lightweight creams because it offers plant-based moisture without heaviness.
Current research and decades of traditional use point to a strong safety profile with very low irritation potential. Still it is wise to patch test any new product that contains this or any other active just to be sure your skin agrees with it.