What it is
This extract is obtained from the leaves (needles) of Pinus densiflora, the Japanese or Korean red pine. Pine-needle extracts are naturally rich in polyphenols and are used in skincare mainly as antioxidant and skin-conditioning ingredients. In sunscreens it appears as a supporting botanical and does not contribute to UV filtration.
Safety & warnings
Pine leaf extract is generally well tolerated in cosmetics. Pine-derived botanicals can contain aromatic and terpene constituents, so individuals sensitive to conifer or fragrance materials may rarely react and could patch test. It is not considered comedogenic at typical use levels.
Origin & sourcing
Natural; a plant extract prepared from the needles of the red pine tree, Pinus densiflora.
Questions everyone asks
What does red pine leaf extract do in a sunscreen?
It serves as a botanical antioxidant and skin-conditioning ingredient; it is not a UV filter and does not provide SPF.
Which plant is it from?
It comes from the needles of Pinus densiflora, the red pine native to East Asia, including Japan and Korea.