What it is
Foeniculum Vulgare Fruit Extract is prepared from the fruit, commonly called the seed, of the fennel plant. In cosmetics it is used as a plant-derived conditioning and antioxidant-type ingredient and is included for its content of aromatic and polyphenolic plant constituents. It serves as a supportive botanical additive rather than as a UV filter.
Safety & warnings
Fennel fruit extract can carry aromatic constituents such as anethole, so individuals sensitive to fragrance or to aromatic botanicals may wish to be cautious, and patch testing is reasonable for reactive skin. At typical cosmetic use levels it is generally well tolerated.
Origin & sourcing
Natural; a botanical extract from the fruit (seed) of Foeniculum vulgare, a culinary and aromatic herb.
History
Fennel has a long culinary and herbal history across the Mediterranean and Asia; its aromatic seeds carry over into cosmetic use as a botanical additive.
Questions everyone asks
What part of fennel is used?
The extract is made from the fruit of the fennel plant, commonly referred to as fennel seed.
Why is it in sunscreen?
It is included as a botanical conditioning and antioxidant-type additive and does not provide UV protection.