What it is
Hydrangea Serrata Leaf Extract comes from the leaves of mountain hydrangea, the plant whose processed leaves yield the naturally sweet Japanese tea amacha. The leaves contain the sweet compound phyllodulcin along with polyphenols, and the extract is used as a skin-conditioning botanical with antioxidant character. It is typically used at low levels as a supporting ingredient.
Safety & warnings
Generally well tolerated in topical use. As a plant extract it may rarely cause sensitivity in predisposed individuals. It is not regarded as comedogenic.
Origin & sourcing
Natural; obtained from the leaves of mountain hydrangea, Hydrangea serrata, traditionally processed into the sweet tea amacha in Japan.
History
The leaves of this plant have a long tradition in Japan as amacha, a naturally sweet tea used in the Buddhist flower festival Kanbutsue.
Questions everyone asks
What is amacha?
Amacha is a naturally sweet Japanese tea made from the processed leaves of this hydrangea species.
What does the extract do in skincare?
It acts as a conditioning and soothing botanical and is not a sunscreen active.