What Is Steviol Glycosides/Angelica Gigas Root/Stem Extract?
Steviol Glycosides/Angelica Gigas Root/Stem Extract is a plant based blend that brings together two botanical powerhouses. The steviol glycosides portion comes from the leaves of the stevia plant, best known as a natural sweetener. These molecules are small, water soluble compounds built on a steviol backbone that carry several attached sugar groups. Angelica gigas, also called Korean angelica, contributes its root and stem material, which is rich in naturally occurring coumarins and polyphenols.
Angelica gigas has been used for centuries in East Asian herbal traditions to calm skin discomfort and promote general well-being. Stevia leaves gained global attention in the 1970s as a calorie-free sweetener and, as research into the plant grew, the stable antioxidant nature of steviol glycosides caught the eye of cosmetic chemists. By combining the two extracts formulators created a multitasking ingredient that delivers a broad spectrum of plant antioxidants.
Production starts by harvesting stevia leaves and Angelica gigas roots and stems at peak season, drying them, then running each plant through a gentle water or food grade alcohol extraction. The two liquid extracts are filtered, concentrated, and finally blended in controlled ratios to yield a uniform powder or liquid that fits easily into cosmetic bases.
You will spot this ingredient in lightweight serums, sheet masks, daily moisturizers, eye creams, after-sun lotions and anti-aging formulations where brands want to bolster skin defense without heavy oils or synthetic preservatives.
Steviol Glycosides/Angelica Gigas Root/Stem Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This plant duo is mainly valued for one key action on the skin.
Antioxidant: By neutralizing free radicals generated by UV light and pollution the extract helps slow the look of premature aging, supports a more even skin tone and protects delicate lipids in the formula itself. This can translate to calmer, brighter skin with fewer visible fine lines over time.
Who Can Use Steviol Glycosides/Angelica Gigas Root/Stem Extract
This ingredient is lightweight, water soluble and free of pore-clogging oils so it suits most skin types including oily, combination, normal, dry and mature skin. Sensitive skin generally tolerates it well thanks to the gentle extraction method, though anyone highly reactive to botanical extracts should proceed with caution.
The blend is entirely plant derived and contains no animal by-products or animal testing requirements, making it appropriate for both vegans and vegetarians.
Current research shows no specific concerns for topical use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. That said this is not medical advice and pregnant or nursing individuals should check with their healthcare provider before adding any new skincare product.
The extract does not increase photosensitivity, so it can be used morning or night without raising the risk of sun-related irritation. Standard daytime sunscreen use is still recommended for overall skin health.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical Steviol Glycosides/Angelica Gigas Root/Stem Extract differ from person to person. The points below list potential issues only and, when the ingredient is formulated correctly, most users will not encounter them.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness stinging or dryness
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to plants in the carrot or parsley family (Apiaceae)
- Rare phototoxic reaction if exposed to high-intensity UV immediately after application in formulas containing elevated coumarin levels
- Increased sensitivity when layered with strong acids or retinoids
If any uncomfortable reaction occurs discontinue use and consult a qualified healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic)
The extract is water soluble, contains virtually no fatty acids or heavy waxes and is used at low concentrations, all of which mean it will not block pores or encourage blackheads. Its antioxidant molecules sit on the surface and rinse away easily without leaving an occlusive film.
Because of this, it is considered suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
Formulas that pair the extract with rich carrier oils or thick butters could change the overall pore-clogging potential, so check the full ingredient list if congestion is a concern.
Summary
Steviol Glycosides/Angelica Gigas Root/Stem Extract delivers a simple yet valuable benefit: plant-based antioxidant protection that helps neutralize daily free radical damage and support a brighter, calmer complexion. Steviol glycosides contribute stable, sugar-linked antioxidants while Angelica gigas supplies coumarins and polyphenols that work in tandem to mop up excess reactive oxygen species.
The ingredient is still a relative niche player compared with big-name antioxidants like vitamin C or green tea but its gentle profile and vegan sourcing are earning it steady attention in clean beauty lines, sheet masks and soothing serums.
Topical safety data show low irritation potential, no known hormone disruption and no comedogenicity. While most users tolerate it well common sense says to patch test any new product to rule out personal sensitivities and enjoy the perks of this botanical duo with confidence.