Ingredient decoder

Willow bark extract: is it comedogenic? What it does in skincare

INCI name: Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract

Acne verdict Acne helper

Helps acne-prone skin

  • ComedogenicNo published rating
  • IrritancyNo published rating

What it does

Plant extract with salicin, a weak natural salicylate.

  • Anti-acne
  • Astringent
  • Hair conditioning
  • Skin conditioning
  • Soothing
  • Tonic

Willow bark extract in plain English

Willow bark extract contains salicin and related compounds, which are chemically related to salicylic acid. It is often marketed as a natural BHA, but it exfoliates far less than real salicylic acid. It may have mild soothing and astringent effects, so evidence for acne is weak.

Is willow bark extract bad for acne?

No. Willow bark extract is on the helpful side for acne-prone skin and is not known to clog pores. Our checker groups it with the anti-acne ingredients.

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Also called

  • Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract
  • White willow bark extract
  • Salix alba bark extract

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Frequently asked questions

Is willow bark extract comedogenic?

There is no published comedogenic rating for willow bark extract, and it is not known to clog pores. It is used in products made for acne-prone skin.

What does willow bark extract do in skincare?

In short: plant extract with salicin, a weak natural salicylate. In formulas it is used for astringent, hair conditioning, skin conditioning, soothing and tonic.

What else is willow bark extract called on ingredient labels?

On ingredient lists, willow bark extract can also appear as Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract, White willow bark extract or Salix alba bark extract.

Sources