Achillea Millefolium Extract

Best

Antioxidant

Achillea Millefolium Extract at a glance

  • Has antioxidant properties
  • Can rejuvenate skin’s surface
  • Has calming abilities

Achillea Millefolium Extract description

_Achillea millefolium_ extract, more commonly known as yarrow extract, is the extract from the whole yarrow plant, a type of flowering herb native to North America and parts of Europe and Asia. It’s a rich source of antioxidant flavonoids, phenolics, and various fatty acids that contribute to healthier-looking skin. Long used in European folk medicine (particularly for internal ailments), research is diving deeper into _Achillea millefolium_ extract’s topical benefit for skin, and the results are highly encouraging. Studies show this extract has antioxidant properties that can rejuvenate skin’s surface, leading to a more youthful appearance. Of particular interest is research showing that _Achillea millefolium_ extract can fight factors that lead to visible skin irritation – essentially, that it is a calming ingredient. Research has also shown that various compounds in this plant’s oil, particularly linalyl acetate, play a role in fading the appearance of dark spots; however, this compound is also a source of fragrance and can irritate skin. For this reason, we prefer the extract form of this plant instead of the oil. The independent Cosmetic Ingredient Review has ruled that _Achillea millefolium_ extract is safe as used in cosmetics at its current concentrations, which range from 0.000005-0.04%. The bioavailability of this extract is improved when added to a glycol base.

Achillea Millefolium Extract references

  • Special Chem, Accessed April 2023, Website
  • Journal of Essential Oil Research, July 2022, pages 479-489
  • Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity, March 2021, pages 1–13
  • Molecules, July 2020, pages 1–18
  • The American Journal of Chinese Medicine, May 2020, pages 1,121-1,140
  • International Journal of Toxicology, December 2016, ePublication
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, December 2011, pages 535-42

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.