What it is
Aspalathus Linearis Leaf Extract is obtained from rooibos, a South African shrub whose leaves are also brewed as a caffeine-free herbal tea. It is rich in distinctive polyphenols such as aspalathin, which give it antioxidant character, and it is used in skincare as a soothing, skin-conditioning botanical. In sun-care formulas it commonly supports the antioxidant and comforting profile of the product.
Safety & warnings
Rooibos extract is generally well tolerated and is not a member of the daisy family, so it lacks the Asteraceae cross-reactivity concern of wormwood botanicals. As with any plant extract, occasional individual sensitivity is possible. It is an aqueous-type extract and is not associated with comedogenicity.
Origin & sourcing
Natural; a botanical extract from the leaves of the rooibos plant (Aspalathus linearis), native to South Africa.
History
Rooibos has long been used in South Africa as a herbal beverage and has been adopted in cosmetics as an antioxidant-rich botanical.
Questions everyone asks
What is rooibos extract used for in skincare?
It is used as an antioxidant and soothing skin-conditioning botanical, valued for its polyphenol content.
Is it the same plant as rooibos tea?
Yes, both come from Aspalathus linearis; the cosmetic ingredient is a topical leaf extract rather than a beverage.