What it is
Akebia Quinata Stem Extract is derived from the woody stems of the chocolate vine, a deciduous climber native to East Asia. The stem has a long history of use in traditional East Asian preparations, and the cosmetic extract is included primarily as a plant-derived conditioning component. In sunscreen formulas it typically appears at low levels alongside other botanicals rather than as a functional UV filter.
Safety & warnings
Botanical stem extracts of this type are generally well tolerated at the low concentrations used in cosmetics. As with any plant extract, sensitization is possible in predisposed individuals. It is not an oil and is not considered comedogenic.
Origin & sourcing
Natural; a water- or solvent-based extract prepared from the stems of the Akebia quinata vine, a plant native to China, Japan, and Korea.
Questions everyone asks
What is Akebia quinata?
It is the chocolate vine, a climbing plant native to East Asia whose stems are used to make this cosmetic extract.
Does this extract provide sun protection?
No. It is included as a botanical skin-conditioning ingredient, not as a UV filter.