Ursolic Acid: 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 Ursolic Acid?

Ursolic acid is a naturally occurring compound classified as a pentacyclic triterpenoid. Chemically known as urs-12-en-28-oic acid, 3-hydroxy-, (3β)-, it is most abundant in the waxy outer layer of apple peels and is also present in rosemary, cranberries, basil and lavender. Centuries ago herbalists valued these plants for their soothing and aromatic properties, a tradition that set the stage for modern cosmetic use.

Today cosmetic manufacturers typically obtain ursolic acid by extracting plant material with food-grade solvents, filtering and purifying the concentrate, then standardizing it into a fine powder or liquid for easy blending into formulas. Because the molecule is stable at normal formulation temperatures it integrates well into a wide range of products including anti aging serums, firming creams, daily moisturizers, restorative masks, after sun lotions and even certain hair and scalp treatments.

Ursolic Acid’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This versatile ingredient brings several helpful functions to personal care products:

  • Fragrance: Natural subtle aroma that enhances a formula’s sensory appeal without overpowering added scents
  • Perfuming: Helps round out fragrance compositions by introducing soft herbal and fruity notes, giving the finished product a more complex scent profile
  • Skin Conditioning: Forms a lightweight, breathable film on the skin surface that supports moisture retention, leaves skin feeling smoother and can visibly improve firmness and elasticity over time

Who Can Use Ursolic Acid

Ursolic Acid suits most skin types including normal, dry, combination and mature skin thanks to its lightweight feel and conditioning effect. Oily or very blemish-prone skin can generally tolerate it as well, though those individuals should look for formulas labeled noncomedogenic and monitor how their skin responds since any film-forming agent can occasionally trap excess sebum.

The ingredient is plant derived and typically extracted from apple peel, rosemary or similar botanicals so it is appropriate for vegans and vegetarians when processed without animal by-products.

No human studies have flagged topical Ursolic Acid as unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding at cosmetic concentrations. Still, data are limited and every pregnancy is unique. This information is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should discuss any new skincare product with a doctor before adding it to a routine.

Ursolic Acid does not increase photosensitivity and has mild antioxidant properties that can complement daily sun protection. It pairs well with most common actives and can be used day or night.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Skin reactions to topical Ursolic Acid vary from person to person and the points below list potential rather than typical outcomes. When the ingredient is formulated and used correctly most people experience no negative effects.

  • Transient redness or stinging in very sensitive skin
  • Mild irritation when layered with multiple strong actives such as high-strength acids or retinoids
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to plants from which Ursolic Acid is sourced
  • Fragrance sensitization for those who react to perfuming agents
  • Rare clogged pores in individuals extremely prone to comedones

If any unwanted reaction occurs stop using the product and seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1 out of 5

Ursolic Acid forms a thin breathable film on the skin that helps lock in moisture but it does not contain the heavy oils or waxes typically linked with clogged pores. Most lab and anecdotal data show a very low tendency to block follicles which is why the rating sits just above non-comedogenic. This means the ingredient is generally suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin although highly sensitive or extremely oily individuals should still monitor how their skin responds, especially in richer formulations.

Because Ursolic Acid is usually used at low percentages and is often paired with light carriers its overall comedogenic impact in finished products tends to be negligible.

Summary

Ursolic Acid primarily conditions skin, adds a soft natural aroma and supports perfume blends. It achieves these functions by forming a microscopic flexible film that reduces water loss, smooths texture and subtly fragrances the formula without overpowering other scent notes.

While not a headline ingredient like retinol or vitamin C, it appears in a steady range of niche anti-aging serums, firming creams and botanical moisturizers favored by consumers looking for plant-derived actives.

Topical safety data are favorable with only isolated reports of mild irritation or allergic contact reactions. Overall it is considered safe at cosmetic levels yet as with any new skincare component a brief patch test is always the smartest way to rule out personal sensitivity.

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