What it is
Aspalathus linearis extract is obtained from rooibos, a shrub native to South Africa whose leaves are widely used to make rooibos tea. In skincare it is used as a botanical conditioning agent and is valued for the antioxidant polyphenols naturally present in the plant. It is generally included at low concentrations as part of a plant-based blend.
Safety & warnings
Rooibos extract is generally well tolerated at the low concentrations used in cosmetics and is naturally caffeine-free. As with any botanical, sensitivity is possible in individuals allergic to the plant.
Origin & sourcing
Natural; an extract prepared from the leaves of the rooibos plant (Aspalathus linearis), native to South Africa, typically in a water or glycol carrier.
Questions everyone asks
What plant is rooibos extract from?
It is from Aspalathus linearis, the South African rooibos shrub used to make rooibos tea.
Why is rooibos extract added to sunscreens?
It is included as a botanical antioxidant and conditioning ingredient, not as a UV filter.