What it is
Caesalpinia spinosa is a leguminous tree native to South America whose pods are best known as a source of tara gum (a galactomannan polysaccharide). The fruit extract is used in skin care for its film-forming and conditioning properties and is sometimes promoted for a tightening or smoothing effect on the skin surface. In sunscreen formulas it typically appears as a secondary botanical added for skin feel and conditioning rather than for sun protection.
Safety & warnings
Generally well tolerated as used in cosmetics. As with any botanical extract, sensitive or allergy-prone individuals may occasionally react, so patch testing is reasonable for those with known plant sensitivities. It is not an oil and is not associated with comedogenicity.
Origin & sourcing
Natural; obtained from the fruit pods of the tara tree (Caesalpinia spinosa), a plant cultivated mainly in Peru and other parts of South America.
Questions everyone asks
Is tara fruit extract a sunscreen ingredient?
No. It is not a UV filter. It is added for film-forming and skin-conditioning properties and does not provide sun protection on its own.
Is it related to tara gum?
Yes. The same plant, Caesalpinia spinosa, is the source of tara gum, a polysaccharide thickener, though the fruit extract is used here for conditioning rather than as a primary thickener.