Silybum Marianum Fruit Extract

Best

Antioxidant

Silybum Marianum Fruit Extract description

_Silymarin marianum_ is a plant whose many components, primarily a flavanolignan chemical known as silymarin, have pronounced antioxidant and skin-calming ability. Silymarin occurs in milk thistle fruit and seeds, and helps shield skin from the visible effects of UV light exposure (of course, you still need a broad spectrum sunscreen). Silymarin also has research on its role in interrupting pathways in skin that lead to discolourations on skin’s surface, while that and other compounds in milk thistle seem, at least in a lab setting, to have an inhibitory effect on enzymes that degrade collagen. In short, it’s an impressive antioxidant to see in skin care products, particularly those that address environmental stressors.

Silybum Marianum Fruit Extract references

  • Molecules, March 2019, ePublication
  • Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, August 2018, pages 263-270
  • Archives of Dermatological Research, July 2018, pages 413-424
  • Pharmaceutical Biology, March 2013, pages 298-303
  • International Journal of Oncology, May 2010, pages 1,053-1,060

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.