What it is
Betulin is a pentacyclic triterpene alcohol that occurs in high concentration in the outer bark of birch trees, giving the bark its characteristic white color. As a single defined compound it is used in skincare as a conditioning ingredient. In sunscreens it appears as a minor functional or conditioning additive rather than as a UV filter.
Safety & warnings
Betulin is a well-characterized plant triterpene generally regarded as well tolerated at cosmetic use levels. As with any defined botanical compound, formulation context and concentration determine the overall feel and tolerability.
Origin & sourcing
Naturally derived, isolated chiefly from the bark of birch trees (Betula species), where it can make up a large fraction of the bark's extractable solids.
Questions everyone asks
Where does betulin come from?
It is isolated mainly from birch bark, where it is one of the most abundant extractable compounds and contributes to the bark's white appearance.
Is betulin a single ingredient or an extract?
It is a single defined triterpene compound, not a complex extract, although it originates from birch bark.