What Is Paulownia Imperialis Bark/Flower/Leaf Extract?
Paulownia Imperialis Bark/Flower/Leaf Extract comes from the bark, blossoms and leaves of the princess tree, Paulownia imperialis. The tree is native to China and Korea yet now grows in many temperate regions. The extract carries a mix of polyphenols, flavonoids and small amounts of natural tannins that give it mild antioxidant and toning qualities.
Traditional East Asian folk care used crushed paulownia parts to calm small skin irritations. Interest from modern formulators grew in the early 2000s when studies highlighted the plant’s soothing and tightening properties. Today the extract is produced by drying the bark, flowers and leaves, grinding them to a fine powder then running the powder through a water-or-glycerin infusion. The liquid is filtered, concentrated and preserved for use in cosmetics.
Brands add Paulownia Imperialis Bark/Flower/Leaf Extract to facial toners, refreshing sheet masks, anti-aging serums, lightweight moisturizers, after-sun gels and scalp tonics. Its gentle nature makes it suitable for both rinse-off and leave-on products.
Paulownia Imperialis Bark/Flower/Leaf Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators reach for this botanical when they need a plant based multitasker that can tone, soften and soothe in one step.
- Astringent: The natural tannins help tighten the look of pores and cut surface oil, giving skin a smoother matte finish without harsh alcohols
- Hair conditioning: Light plant sugars coat strands so they feel softer and look shinier, which can improve manageability in shampoos and leave-in sprays
- Skin conditioning: Flavonoids and sugars boost moisture retention, leaving skin feeling supple and comfortable
- Soothing: Polyphenols calm the appearance of redness and minor irritation, making the extract a welcome addition to products meant for sensitive or post-sun skin
Who Can Use Paulownia Imperialis Bark/Flower/Leaf Extract
This extract is generally well tolerated by all skin types. Oily and combination skin appreciate the mild astringent action that tempers shine while dry or mature skin benefits from the light conditioning sugars that help lock in moisture. Sensitive skin usually gets on well thanks to the soothing polyphenols, though anyone with a known allergy to the Paulownia genus should avoid it.
The ingredient is plant based and produced without animal derivatives so it is suitable for both vegetarians and vegans.
No research flags specific risks for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the extract is applied topically in normal cosmetic concentrations. Absorption into the bloodstream is considered minimal, yet there are no large studies. This is not medical advice and pregnant or nursing individuals should run any product past their doctor to be on the safe side.
Paulownia Imperialis Bark/Flower/Leaf Extract is not known to cause photosensitivity. It can actually be helpful in after-sun formulas because of its calming properties.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Paulownia Imperialis Bark/Flower/Leaf Extract differ from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects, but most users will not experience them when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Allergic contact dermatitis leading to redness and itching
- Mild stinging or burning on very sensitized or broken skin
- Temporary tight feeling or slight dryness due to its astringent tannins
- Scalp irritation in leave-on hair products if left unwashed for extended periods
- Rare cross-reactivity in individuals allergic to other members of the Paulowniaceae family
If any uncomfortable reaction occurs discontinue use and consult a qualified healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0-1 – Paulownia Imperialis Bark/Flower/Leaf Extract is water or glycerin based and contains almost no oils or waxes that could clog pores. Its primary actives are light polyphenols, sugars and tannins which rinse clean or sit weightlessly on the skin. For this reason it is considered non-comedogenic to very low on the scale and is generally fine for acne-prone users. Formulators usually include it at low percentages, further reducing any pore-blocking risk. Only if a product pairs the extract with heavy occlusives could breakouts become a concern.
Summary
Paulownia Imperialis Bark/Flower/Leaf Extract acts as an astringent, skin conditioner, hair conditioner and soothing agent. Tannins lightly tighten pores for a refined look, plant sugars form a thin moisture-holding veil, flavonoids support softness while antioxidant polyphenols calm visible redness after irritation or sun exposure.
The ingredient is still a niche choice compared with more famous botanicals like green tea or chamomile yet its multitasking nature is earning steady interest in toners, after-sun gels and scalp mists.
Overall safety is high with very few reports of irritation or allergy. As with any new cosmetic it is smart to patch test a small area first for extra peace of mind.