What it is
This ingredient is an extract of the root of Gypsophila paniculata, the ornamental plant known as baby's breath. The root is naturally rich in saponins, plant glycosides that have foaming and cleansing properties. It is used in cosmetics as a skin-conditioning ingredient and as a gentle plant-derived surfactant.
Safety & warnings
The root extract is generally well tolerated in topical use. As a saponin-containing botanical, it may be mildly irritating at high concentrations, and sensitivity is possible in reactive individuals.
Origin & sourcing
Natural, plant-derived. It is extracted from the root of Gypsophila paniculata, commonly called baby's breath.
History
Saponin-bearing plant roots, including Gypsophila species, have a long history of use as natural cleansing and foaming agents before being incorporated into modern cosmetics.
Questions everyone asks
What plant does this come from?
It comes from the root of Gypsophila paniculata, the ornamental flowering plant known as baby's breath.
Why is it used in formulas?
Its root is rich in saponins, so it functions as a skin-conditioning ingredient and a gentle plant-derived cleansing agent.