Quercus Infectoria Gall Extract: 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: June 30, 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 Quercus Infectoria Gall Extract?

Quercus Infectoria Gall Extract comes from the small, round growths known as galls that form on the branches of the Quercus infectoria oak tree. These galls develop when certain insects lay eggs on the tree, prompting the plant to produce a protective swelling rich in tannins. Tannins are natural compounds famous for their tightening and toning feel on skin. Traditional cultures in the Middle East and Asia have long powdered these galls for oral hygiene and skin care, which paved the way for modern cosmetic use.

To make the extract, harvested galls are cleaned, dried and ground, then soaked in a mix of water and food-grade solvents. The liquid that results is filtered and concentrated, leaving a stable, tannin-dense ingredient ready for creams, gels or lotions. You will often spot Quercus Infectoria Gall Extract in facial masks aimed at oily skin, toners that promise a refined look, lightweight moisturizers, after-shave balms and targeted treatments that try to tighten the look of enlarged pores.

Quercus Infectoria Gall Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

When added to a formula this plant extract offers several skin-friendly perks:

  • Anti-Sebum: The high tannin content can help curb excess oil on the skin’s surface which supports a fresher matte finish and may reduce the greasy feel that builds up during the day
  • Astringent: Its natural tightening effect can make pores appear smaller and provide a quick firming sensation that many people enjoy after cleansing or shaving
  • Skin Conditioning: Beyond oil control it leaves a soft protective film on the skin helping it feel smoother and more comfortable

Who Can Use Quercus Infectoria Gall Extract

This extract fits best with normal, combination and oily skin thanks to its oil-absorbing tannins. Dry or very sensitive skin may find the astringent feel a bit too tightening which can lead to discomfort if moisture is already lacking.

Because the ingredient is entirely plant based and no animal-derived substances are involved in harvesting or processing, it is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians. As always, confirm the finished product is certified cruelty free if that is important to you.

No specific data flag the extract as unsafe for pregnant or breastfeeding women when used on skin in typical cosmetic amounts. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should run all skincare products past a qualified healthcare professional for extra reassurance.

The extract is not known to make skin more sensitive to sunlight so it is not considered photosensitising. It plays well with most common skincare actives such as niacinamide or salicylic acid and does not carry fragrance of its own which lowers the chance of scent-related irritation.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Quercus Infectoria Gall Extract differ from person to person. The points below outline possible but generally uncommon issues. When the ingredient is included at appropriate levels in a well-formulated product most users will experience none of these problems.

  • Dryness or tightness the high tannin content can temporarily pull moisture from the skin surface
  • Stinging on compromised skin freshly shaved or broken skin may feel a mild sting upon application
  • Redness or irritation those with very sensitive skin or a history of contact dermatitis can react to plant tannins
  • Temporary surface discoloration darker formulas with high extract levels may leave a faint brownish tint that washes off
  • Interaction with alcohol-rich products pairing multiple astringents can amplify dryness and discomfort

If any irritation or other negative effect crops up stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1 out of 5

Quercus Infectoria Gall Extract is water soluble and rich in tannins, not lipids, so it does not clog pores the way heavier oils or waxes can. Its mild rating reflects the slim chance of blocking follicles while acknowledging that very astringent ingredients may occasionally trigger reactive oil production in some users.

Most people prone to acne can use products containing this extract without seeing a spike in breakouts, provided the rest of the formula is also low on pore-clogging ingredients.

The extract is often partnered with lightweight gels, toners or clay masks that naturally steer clear of comedogenic additives, which further keeps the overall risk low.

Summary

Quercus Infectoria Gall Extract lends a trio of benefits to skincare: it tempers excess oil thanks to its tannin content, delivers an astringent tightening feel that can make pores look smaller and leaves a conditioned finish that helps skin feel smooth and refreshed. These effects stem from the tannins forming microfilms on the surface that bind sebum, draw together skin proteins and create a soft protective layer.

The ingredient sits in a niche corner of the cosmetic world, popular in some traditional formulations and select modern products aimed at oily skin but it has yet to reach mainstream status like witch hazel or niacinamide.

Overall safety is high with only occasional reports of dryness or minor irritation in sensitive users. While adverse reactions are rare, patch testing any new product that contains this extract is a sensible step to rule out personal sensitivity.

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