Maackia Fauriei Leaf Oil: 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: July 1, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Maackia Fauriei Leaf Oil?

Maackia Fauriei Leaf Oil is an aromatic plant oil distilled from the leaves of Maackia fauriei, a small tree in the pea family that grows mainly in East Asia. The leaves are steam-distilled to separate their volatile compounds, yielding a clear to pale-yellow oil rich in natural antioxidants such as flavonoids and phenolic acids. Traditional Korean remedies valued Maackia leaves for calming skin and supporting overall skin health, and modern formulators took note once laboratory tests confirmed their strong free-radical scavenging power. Today the oil is processed in controlled facilities where fresh or dried leaves are cleaned, shredded, then passed through pressurized steam; the condensed vapor is collected and separated into water and oil fractions, with the oil filtered for purity. You will most often spot Maackia Fauriei Leaf Oil in serums, antioxidant boosters, anti-aging creams, sheet masks, after-sun gels and even in light facial oils that aim to protect skin from environmental stress.

Maackia Fauriei Leaf Oil’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

The standout role of Maackia Fauriei Leaf Oil in cosmetics is its antioxidant action. By neutralizing free radicals created by UV light and pollution, the oil helps slow the look of premature aging, supports a brighter more even tone, and preserves the integrity of other delicate ingredients in a formula. When used regularly it can help maintain smoother skin texture and a healthier looking complexion.

Who Can Use Maackia Fauriei Leaf Oil

Maackia Fauriei Leaf Oil is generally suitable for all skin types including dry, normal, combination and oily because it is lightweight and primarily offers antioxidant support without a greasy after-feel. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it well thanks to its low fragrance intensity, though those with a known allergy to plants in the pea family should proceed carefully. The oil is entirely plant derived so it fits vegan and vegetarian lifestyles. No animal by-products are used during harvesting or processing.

There is no published evidence showing that topical Maackia Fauriei Leaf Oil poses a specific risk during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Still, research on this exact extract is limited, so this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should ask a doctor before adding new skincare products to their routine.

The oil is not known to cause photosensitivity, meaning it does not make skin more vulnerable to sunburn. Standard daytime sun protection is still recommended with any skincare regimen.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Individual responses to topical Maackia Fauriei Leaf Oil vary. The points below describe potential side effects that could occur, though most users will not experience them when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.

  • Mild redness or warmth shortly after application
  • Temporary stinging on compromised or recently exfoliated skin
  • Contact dermatitis in people allergic to Fabaceae plants
  • Sensitivity reactions in those prone to essential oil or fragrance allergies

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

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1 out of 5. Maackia Fauriei Leaf Oil is a volatile, fast-absorbing essential oil that largely evaporates after delivering its antioxidant molecules, leaving little residue to clog pores. It also lacks the heavier fatty acids often blamed for breakouts. Because of this low rating the oil is generally considered suitable for acne-prone or congested skin, provided the individual is not sensitive to essential oils. If a formula pairs it with heavier carriers, the overall pore-clogging potential will depend on the other ingredients rather than the Maackia oil itself.

Summary

Maackia Fauriei Leaf Oil serves mainly as an antioxidant in skincare, helping neutralize free radicals generated by sunlight pollution and everyday stress. By reducing oxidative damage it supports a smoother texture, more even tone and longer shelf life for delicate actives in the same formula. Its use is still niche compared with better-known botanicals like green tea or vitamin C, but interest is growing as brands search for fresh plant sources of protective compounds.

Topically the oil has a solid safety profile when properly diluted, with most users experiencing no irritation or pore blockage. As with any new cosmetic ingredient it is wise to perform a small patch test before applying a full-sized product to make sure your skin agrees with it.

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