Styrach Obassis 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 Styrach Obassis Extract?

Styrach Obassis Extract comes from the whole Styrach obassis plant, a member of the storied Styracaceae family. The leaves, stems and flowers are rich in phenolic compounds and natural acids that make the extract a handy source of antioxidants. Traditional communities once used the plant’s fragrant resin in skin salves and fragrant oils, which caught the interest of modern formulators looking for plant based actives. Today the extract is produced by harvesting the entire plant, drying it, then using a gentle water-or-glycerin infusion or an alcohol-free maceration to pull out the beneficial molecules. After filtration and concentration, the resulting liquid or powdered extract is blended into cosmetic bases. You will usually spot Styrach Obassis Extract in soothing sheet masks, daily moisturizers, anti-aging serums, brightening essences and lightweight lotions aimed at calm, hydrated skin.

Styrach Obassis Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This plant based ingredient supports skin wellness in a couple of key ways

  • Antioxidant  Neutralizes everyday free radicals from UV light and pollution which helps prevent early signs of aging, keeps skin tone more even and protects the integrity of other delicate ingredients in a formula
  • Skin Conditioning  Adds a soft, hydrated feel by boosting the skin’s moisture balance making the overall product more comforting for dry or sensitive complexions

Who Can Use Styrach Obassis Extract

Styrach Obassis Extract is gentle enough for most skin types. Normal, dry, combination and even sensitive skin usually accept it well thanks to its soothing and antioxidant profile. Oily or acne-prone users can also benefit since the extract is lightweight and does not leave a greasy film. At this time there are no reports of the ingredient clogging pores or aggravating breakouts, so it is generally suitable across the board.

The extract is plant derived so products that contain it are typically suitable for vegans and vegetarians, provided the rest of the formula also avoids animal sourced additives. If that is a key concern always scan the full ingredient list or look for a vegan certification on the label.

Pregnant or breastfeeding women are not known to face specific risks with topical use of Styrach Obassis Extract. This information is not medical advice so expectant or nursing mothers should still check with a healthcare professional before adding any new skincare product to their routine just to be safe.

Styrach Obassis Extract is not known to cause photosensitivity and does not make skin more reactive to sunlight. Standard daily sunscreen use is still recommended for overall skin health.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Styrach Obassis Extract can differ from person to person. The points below highlight possible side effects yet most people will never encounter them when the ingredient is used correctly in a well-formulated product.

  • Mild redness or warmth in those with very reactive skin
  • Temporary stinging if applied to freshly exfoliated or compromised skin
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in rare cases for individuals allergic to plants in the Styracaceae family
  • Eye irritation if the product is rubbed into the eye area

If any of these reactions occur discontinue use immediately and seek advice from a medical professional if symptoms persist.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1 / 5

Styrach Obassis Extract is water-based and contains mostly phenolic antioxidants rather than heavy oils or waxes. A trace amount of natural resin could theoretically leave a light film so it earns a cautious 1 instead of a perfect 0.

Suitable for acne-prone skin.

No data suggest it encourages excess sebum or blocks pores but product texture and the other ingredients in a formula will ultimately decide how breakout-friendly it feels.

Summary

Styrach Obassis Extract acts as an antioxidant that mops up free radicals from sun and pollution and as a skin-conditioning agent that helps keep moisture in the surface layers so skin feels soft and calm. It achieves these results thanks to its mix of phenolic acids and soothing plant compounds.

The extract is still a niche addition rather than a headline ingredient so you might see it pop up in mid-tier K-beauty moisturizers or indie serums rather than in every mainstream product on the shelf.

Current safety data show a low risk of irritation or comedogenicity making it a gentle option for most users. As with any new skincare ingredient it is wise to patch test first to make sure your skin agrees with it.

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