What it is
Ocimum basilicum is the culinary herb basil, and this ingredient is an extract of its leaves. In cosmetics it is used as a skin-conditioning and antioxidant agent and contributes to botanical-themed formulas. In sunscreens it serves as a supporting plant extract rather than as a UV filter.
Safety & warnings
Basil is an aromatic herb whose extracts can contain naturally occurring fragrant compounds, so people sensitive to fragrance or botanical constituents should patch test. Overall tolerability depends on the specific extract and the finished product.
Origin & sourcing
Natural. It is derived from the leaves of Ocimum basilicum (basil), an aromatic herb in the mint family widely cultivated for culinary and cosmetic use.
Questions everyone asks
Is this the same basil used in cooking?
Yes, it is an extract of the leaves of Ocimum basilicum, the common culinary basil, processed for use in skincare.
What does basil extract do in a sunscreen?
It functions as a skin-conditioning and antioxidant botanical that supports the formula. It is not a UV filter and does not provide sun protection.