What Is Lycopus Coreanus Leaf Extract?
Lycopus Coreanus Leaf Extract comes from the leaves of Lycopus coreanus, a member of the mint family native to East Asia. The plant is rich in naturally occurring antioxidants such as phenolic acids, flavonoids and rosmarinic acid, all of which help protect skin from everyday environmental stress. In folk beauty practices across Korea the leaf was steeped in water and applied to the face to soothe and soften, a tradition that inspired modern formulators to study the plant more closely.
To create the cosmetic grade extract, farmers harvest the leaves at peak season, dry them gently to preserve the heat-sensitive compounds then grind them into a coarse powder. The powder is soaked in a skin-safe solvent like water or butylene glycol, filtered to remove solids and concentrated under low heat. The resulting liquid or spray-dried powder is standardized for consistent levels of active compounds before being added to products.
Thanks to its calming and conditioning profile, Lycopus Coreanus Leaf Extract is now found in moisturizers, hydrating serums, sheet masks, soothing after-sun gels, anti-aging creams and even lightweight facial mists.
Lycopus Coreanus Leaf Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators turn to this botanical for two main reasons
- Skin Conditioning: The leaf’s antioxidant and polyphenol content helps keep skin smooth, comfortable and visibly healthy. Regular use can improve softness, support a more even tone and guard against the dulling effects of pollution and stress.
- Emollient: The extract supplies lightweight oils and plant sterols that fill in tiny gaps on the skin surface creating a soft breathable film. This helps reduce moisture loss, leaving skin feeling supple and well hydrated without a greasy residue.
Who Can Use Lycopus Coreanus Leaf Extract
This plant based extract suits most skin types including oily, dry, normal and combination because it is light yet still adds moisture. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it well thanks to its calming antioxidants, though anyone with a known allergy to mint family plants should steer clear.
The extract is derived solely from leaves and processed without animal by-products so it is appropriate for vegans and vegetarians.
Current data shows no specific concerns for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the extract is applied to skin. That said this text is not medical advice. Expectant or nursing mothers should check with their doctor before adding any new cosmetic to their routine.
Lycopus Coreanus Leaf Extract does not increase sun sensitivity and it works fine in both day and night formulas.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Lycopus Coreanus Leaf Extract vary from person to person. The points below outline possible reactions though most users will not notice any problems when the ingredient is used at normal cosmetic levels.
- Mild redness or itching in those allergic to mint family plants
- Temporary stinging if applied to freshly exfoliated or broken skin
- Very rare cases of contact dermatitis
Discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if irritation persists or worsens.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 (very low)
Lycopus Coreanus Leaf Extract is mostly composed of water-soluble antioxidants and only trace amounts of lightweight plant lipids, so it does not readily clog pores. It lacks the dense waxes or heavy oils that usually raise comedogenicity scores. Because the extract stays sheer on the skin and absorbs quickly it is generally compatible with acne-prone or breakout-prone complexions. Only formulas that pair the extract with richer butters or occlusive oils would change this gentle profile.
Summary
Lycopus Coreanus Leaf Extract conditions skin and provides a mild emollient effect. Its antioxidants calm visible redness, defend against daily environmental stress and promote a smoother, softer feel while the light plant sterols create a breathable moisture-locking veil. Although not yet a household name, the extract is gaining attention in K-beauty inspired moisturizers, soothing masks and refreshing mists thanks to its pleasant skin feel and botanical appeal.
Current research and long tradition of topical use show the ingredient to be safe for most users with only rare reports of irritation in those sensitive to mint family plants. As with any new cosmetic, do a small patch test first to confirm personal compatibility before applying a full face product containing Lycopus Coreanus Leaf Extract.