YASOU is committed to bringing the power of nature into your skincare routine. Discover the benefits of Soapbark (Quillaja Saponaria) as a potent skincare ingredient and how we incorporate this cleansing, soothing extract in our range.
What is Soapbark Extract?
Soapbark extract, a celebrated skincare ingredient, originates from the Quillaja Saponaria tree, also known as the Soapbark tree.
This tree is native to the warm temperate regions of central Chile, where it flourishes in the abundant sunshine and fertile soils. The extract derived from this tree has a long history, being treasured in traditional medicine and skincare practices by indigenous populations for centuries.
The extract is derived from the tree’s inner bark using a gentle process that maintains its beneficial properties and purity.
The process of extracting this beneficial compound involves harvesting the inner bark of the Quillaja Saponaria tree. The bark is then soaked and gently heated to coax out the beneficial compounds, a process reminiscent of making a pot of herbal tea.
This extraction process yields a potent elixir that is rich in saponins, a group of plant compounds known for their foaming properties and a myriad of health benefits. The result? A natural and effective skincare ingredient suitable for all skin types.
Benefits of Soap Bark Extract for the Skin
Antioxidant protection
One of the key strengths of soapbark extract is its abundant antioxidant content.
Rich in tannins and flavonoids, these antioxidants protect your skin from damaging free radicals, slowing down the aging process. Flavonoids also promote skin cell regeneration, helping to minimize fine lines and wrinkles, encouraging your skin to retain its youthful vitality.
Cleanses without stripping the skin
Many of us enjoy the foamy feel that cleansers offer. However, commercial cleansers often achieve this using synthetic surfactants which can irritate and dry out the skin.
Soapbark contains Saponins, derived from Latin sapo meaning soap, which are natural compounds that dissolve in water and attach to oil and debris.
They create a natural lather that beautifully cleanses the skin and lifts away dirt and oil. The saponins in soapbark make them an excellent natural alternative to synthetic surfactants in cleansing products.
You can enjoy the satisfying foamy cleanse without stripping your skin of its natural moisture thanks to the water-binding properties of saponins.
For this reason, soapbark is a hero ingredient of YASOU Vegan Gel-Balm Facial Cleanser. This daily skincare ritual gently cleanses, hydrates, balances, and evens skin tone while unclogging pores, regulating oil, treating acne, and promoting supple, radiant skin without ever feeling tight, dry, or dull.
Excellent for sensitive, stressed skin
The anti-inflammatory properties of soapbark extract make it a perfect ally for irritated and sensitive skin. It calms redness and inflammation, offering relief and comfort to stressed skin.
It makes an excellent cleanser for those suffering with eczema or other inflammatory skin concerns that can be exacerbated by commercial face washes. The EPA has deemed soapbark nonsensitizing to the skin.
Promotes a clear and healthy complexion
With its antimicrobial properties, soapbark extract helps in maintaining a clear and healthy complexion. It combats bacteria that cause acne to help your skin look and feel its best.
Antimicrobial properties can also help maintain the delicate balance of the skin’s microbiome to promote overall skin health.
Shop our Vegan Gel-Balm Facial Cleanser today.
(photo: Dick Culbert. Source: commons.wikimedia.org)
Soap bark – Altmeyers Encyclopedia – Department Phytotherapy
Saponins as cytotoxic agents: a review | SpringerLink
Surface-active natural saponins. Properties, safety, and efficacy (tandfonline.com)
Important Flavonoids and Their Role as a Therapeutic Agent – PMC (nih.gov)
EWG’s Guide to Healthy Cleaning | QUILLAJA SAPONARIA (SOAPBARK) BARK EXTRACT | Substance