What Is Fragaria Ananassa Root Extract?
Fragaria Ananassa Root Extract is a plant derived ingredient taken from the roots of the garden strawberry. While the fruit is a kitchen staple, its roots are rich in naturally occurring antioxidants such as ellagic acid, flavonoids and other phenolic compounds. Herbal traditions have used strawberry roots in teas and poultices for centuries, but interest in the concentrated extract for skin care only gained traction in the last couple of decades as formulators searched for botanical sources of antioxidant protection.
To produce the extract, the roots are cleaned, dried and milled into a fine powder. This plant material is then soaked in a food grade solvent like water, glycerin or an ethanol water mix. After allowing time for the beneficial molecules to dissolve, the solution is filtered and the solvent is removed or adjusted, leaving a stable liquid or powder that can be blended into cosmetic bases.
You will most often find Fragaria Ananassa Root Extract in antioxidant serums, brightening masks, anti aging moisturizers, eye creams and after sun treatments where it helps to defend skin from everyday oxidative stress.
Fragaria Ananassa Root Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
The extract’s primary role in skin care is as an antioxidant, meaning it helps neutralize free radicals generated by UV exposure, pollution and general metabolic activity. By limiting this oxidative damage, the ingredient can support a healthier looking complexion, help preservatives work more efficiently and extend the shelf life of delicate oils in a formula.
Who Can Use Fragaria Ananassa Root Extract
This gentle botanical suits most skin types, including dry, normal, combination and oily skin, because it delivers antioxidant support without adding heavy oils or pore clogging waxes. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it well thanks to its low acidity and lack of added fragrance, though anyone with a confirmed strawberry allergy should avoid it.
The extract is plant based and typically processed with vegan friendly solvents, so it is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians. No animal derivatives or by products are involved in its standard production.
Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals can generally use products containing Fragaria Ananassa Root Extract, as no studies suggest topical use poses a risk to mother or baby. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should consult a healthcare professional before adding new skincare to their routine.
The ingredient does not make skin more vulnerable to sunlight and therefore is not considered photosensitizing. It can even be helpful in daytime formulas, partnering with sunscreen for added antioxidant defense.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Fragaria Ananassa Root Extract vary from person to person. The following are potential side effects that remain uncommon when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.
• Mild redness or irritation in very sensitive skin
• Contact dermatitis in individuals with a known strawberry or Rosaceae family allergy
• Stinging if applied to broken or freshly exfoliated skin
If any discomfort or unexpected reaction occurs discontinue use and seek advice from a medical professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic)
Fragaria Ananassa Root Extract is primarily a water-based source of antioxidants with negligible amounts of oils or waxy residues. Because it does not leave a greasy film that can block pores, it earns a zero on the comedogenic scale.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
The extract may even complement clarifying formulas by providing soothing antioxidants without adding any pore-clogging burden.
Summary
Fragaria Ananassa Root Extract delivers antioxidant protection that helps neutralize free radicals, support overall skin health and improve formula stability. It does this through naturally occurring compounds like ellagic acid and flavonoids that interrupt oxidative reactions on the skin’s surface.
While strawberry fruit gets plenty of spotlight, the root extract remains a niche yet steadily growing addition to skin care, especially in clean beauty lines that favor botanical actives.
Topical use is considered safe for most people with low risk of irritation unless there is a strawberry allergy. As with any new product it is wise to perform a quick patch test first to confirm personal compatibility.