What Is Mitracarpus Scaber Extract?
Mitracarpus Scaber Extract comes from Mitracarpus scaber, a small flowering herb that grows in parts of West Africa and Central America. The plant belongs to the coffee family Rubiaceae and has long been used in folk skin remedies. Researchers later found that it contains flavonoids, alkaloids and tannins, with mitracarpin often mentioned as a key active molecule. These naturally occurring compounds help the skin hold water and stay calm, which sparked interest from skincare formulators.
To create the cosmetic grade extract, harvesters collect the aerial parts of the plant, dry them and grind them into a fine material. The powder is soaked in a solvent such as water, ethanol or a mix of both, then filtered to remove solids. The liquid is concentrated and sometimes combined with a carrier like glycerin to make a stable ingredient that blends well into creams or gels.
Because of its gentle, plant based profile, the extract shows up in many leave-on products. You might find it in daily moisturizers, soothing serums, anti aging creams, brightening masks, after sun lotions and eye treatments where extra softness is desired.
Mitracarpus Scaber Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators reach for this botanical mainly for one straightforward reason.
Skin conditioning: Mitracarpus Scaber Extract helps keep the skin feeling smooth, supple and well hydrated. It supports the skin’s surface so it feels softer to the touch and can look healthier over time.
Who Can Use Mitracarpus Scaber Extract
Mitracarpus Scaber Extract is generally considered suitable for all main skin types—including dry, normal, combination and oily—because its primary role is to condition and soften without leaving a greasy film or stripping natural oils. Sensitive skin users usually tolerate it well thanks to its calming plant compounds, though anyone with a known allergy to the Rubiaceae family should approach with caution.
The extract is plant derived and typically processed with vegan friendly solvents, so it fits the needs of both vegetarians and vegans as long as the finished formula contains no animal sourced additives.
Current safety data does not flag any issues for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding. That said this information is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should confirm with a healthcare professional before adding new skincare products to their routine.
Mitracarpus Scaber Extract is not known to increase photosensitivity, so daytime use alongside regular sunscreen is acceptable. The ingredient also plays nicely with most other actives and does not interfere with typical makeup wear.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects and reactions to topical Mitracarpus Scaber Extract can vary from person to person. The points below outline potential issues that may occur, though they are unlikely for the average user when the ingredient is properly formulated.
- Redness or flushing of the application area
- Mild itching or stinging immediately after use
- Dry patches if the formula contains a high level of alcohol
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to plant extracts in the Rubiaceae family
If any of these reactions appear, discontinue use and seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5 – Mitracarpus Scaber Extract is mostly water-soluble and contains minimal heavy oils or waxes, so it has little tendency to block pores. The small amount of tannins and alkaloids present are not known to be comedogenic. This low score means the ingredient is generally suitable for people prone to acne or breakouts. As with any extract, overall pore friendliness also depends on the other ingredients in the finished product.
Summary
Mitracarpus Scaber Extract is prized for its skin-conditioning talent, helping skin stay soft hydrated and calm by delivering plant flavonoids tannins and alkaloids that reinforce the surface. It shows up in moisturizers serums and soothing treatments but is still a niche botanical rather than a mainstream star.
Current research and user experience rate the extract as safe with a very low risk of irritation for most skin types. While adverse reactions are rare, it is always wise to patch test any new product that contains this or any unfamiliar ingredient just to stay on the safe side.