Sunscreen Ranker Independent ranker
Ingredient · INCI reference

Haberlea Rhodopensis Leaf Extract

An extract from the leaves of Haberlea rhodopensis, a resurrection plant native to the Balkans, used in skincare as a botanical conditioning and antioxidant-style ingredient.

What it is

Haberlea Rhodopensis Leaf Extract is derived from a desiccation-tolerant 'resurrection' plant that can survive near-complete drying and rehydrate. In cosmetic formulas it is included as a plant-derived conditioning and protective agent, typically at low concentrations. It contributes to the botanical and antioxidant positioning of formulas rather than providing UV filtration.

Safety & warnings

As a botanical extract it is generally well tolerated at typical use levels. As with any plant extract, sensitization is possible in predisposed individuals, and the finished-product preservative system and any co-extracted compounds influence overall tolerability.

Origin & sourcing

Natural; a water or solvent extract prepared from the leaves of the Balkan endemic plant Haberlea rhodopensis.

Questions everyone asks

Is Haberlea rhodopensis leaf extract a sunscreen filter?

No. It is a botanical conditioning and antioxidant-style ingredient and does not absorb or reflect UV as a sunscreen filter.

Why is it called a resurrection plant?

The plant tolerates extreme drying and can recover after rehydration, which is the basis for its 'resurrection plant' nickname in marketing.

Sources & references

Back to all ingredients