What it is
Caesalpinia sappan is a leguminous tree native to Southeast and South Asia whose reddish wood and bark have a long history as a natural dye and traditional remedy. The extract contains brazilin and related polyphenolic compounds, which contribute antioxidant character and a characteristic warm color. In sunscreen and skincare formulas it is typically included at low levels as a botanical conditioning and antioxidant additive rather than as a primary active.
Safety & warnings
As with many colored botanical extracts, the material can impart tint to a formula and, like other plant extracts, may rarely provoke sensitivity in predisposed individuals. It is generally used at low concentrations in finished cosmetics.
Origin & sourcing
Natural; obtained by extraction from the wood and bark of Caesalpinia sappan (sappanwood), a tree native to tropical Asia.
History
Sappanwood has been used for centuries across Asia as a source of red dye for textiles and as a material in traditional medicine systems, which is the background to its later adoption as a cosmetic botanical extract.
Questions everyone asks
What is Caesalpinia sappan bark extract derived from?
It is derived from the wood and bark of the sappanwood tree (Caesalpinia sappan), a tree native to tropical Asia long used as a natural red dye source.
Why is it added to sunscreen formulas?
It is included mainly as a botanical skin-conditioning and antioxidant additive, typically at low levels, not as a UV filter.