Cudrania Tricuspidata Bark 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 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 Cudrania Tricuspidata Bark Extract?

Cudrania Tricuspidata Bark Extract comes from the bark of Cudrania tricuspidata, a small tree in the mulberry family that grows mainly in China, Korea and Japan. The bark is rich in natural sugars, flavonoids and gentle plant acids that help care for skin. For centuries the tree has appeared in folk remedies, which sparked interest among modern cosmetic chemists looking for plant based ingredients with soothing properties.

To produce the extract, growers harvest and clean the bark, dry it, then soak it in a safe solvent such as water or a mix of water and ethanol. The liquid is filtered, concentrated and carefully dried to create a stable powder or fluid that can be blended into skincare formulas.

You will most often see Cudrania Tricuspidata Bark Extract in masks, daily moisturizers, anti aging serums, calming lotions and after sun products where its mild nature pairs well with other hydrating agents.

Cudrania Tricuspidata Bark Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This botanical is included in formulas chiefly for one key job.

Skin conditioning: The extract helps soften and smooth the outer layer of skin while supporting its natural moisture balance. Its antioxidants can also reduce the look of irritation making the complexion appear fresher and more even.

Who Can Use Cudrania Tricuspidata Bark Extract

This extract is gentle enough for most skin types including normal, dry, oily and combination. People with easily irritated or very reactive skin usually tolerate it well because it has naturally calming plant compounds. Those with a known allergy to mulberry family plants should steer clear since cross reactions are possible.

The ingredient is plant derived with no animal inputs so it fits vegan and vegetarian lifestyles.

Current research shows no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the extract is used on skin in cosmetic amounts. Still this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should have a quick chat with a healthcare provider before adding new products just to be safe.

Cudrania Tricuspidata Bark Extract does not make skin more sensitive to the sun and it will not reduce the protection offered by sunscreen. There are no known problems with using it alongside common actives like retinol or vitamin C.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Cudrania Tricuspidata Bark Extract differ from person to person. The effects listed below are possible not probable and most users will never notice them when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.

  • Redness or mild stinging usually short lived and linked to very sensitive skin
  • Contact dermatitis in those allergic to plants from the mulberry family
  • Dryness or tight feel if the product also contains high levels of alcohol or strong exfoliating acids
  • Interaction with prescription topicals is unlikely yet caution is advised if you use medicated creams on the same area

If you notice any of the effects above stop using the product and seek guidance from a doctor or pharmacist.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1 (very low likelihood of clogging pores)

Cudrania Tricuspidata Bark Extract is mostly made up of water soluble sugars and polyphenols rather than heavy oils or waxes, so it rarely forms a film that could trap sebum or dead cells. Formulas that use the extract typically include it at modest levels for soothing and antioxidant support, further lowering any risk of congestion.

Because of this low rating the ingredient is generally suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin, provided the rest of the product is also light and non-comedogenic.

If the extract appears in an oily balm or thick cream the overall product may still clog pores even though the extract itself is low risk, so always glance at the full ingredient list.

Summary

Cudrania Tricuspidata Bark Extract is a plant-based skin conditioner that softens, calms and subtly defends the skin’s surface thanks to its mix of natural sugars, flavonoids and mild acids. By supporting moisture balance and supplying antioxidants it helps the complexion look smooth and more even without adding heaviness.

The extract is not yet a headline-grabbing star like niacinamide or hyaluronic acid, but it is gaining quiet traction in K-beauty masks, calming gels and gentle serums where formulators want a soothing botanical with minimal downsides.

Current data and real-world use show the ingredient to be very safe for most people, with allergy to mulberry family plants being the main concern. As with any new skincare product do a quick patch test first so you can spot any rare sensitivities before applying it to your entire face.

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