What it is
Quercus Suber Bark Extract is derived from the bark of the cork oak, the same tree harvested for natural cork, and supplies polyphenolic and other botanical constituents. In sunscreens and skincare it is used as a conditioning and antioxidant-associated ingredient, typically at low supporting levels. It contributes to the botanical profile of a formula rather than serving as a functional active.
Safety & warnings
Generally well tolerated at the low concentrations used for botanical extracts. As a tannin-containing botanical, sensitization is possible in predisposed individuals, though uncommon. It is not associated with notable comedogenicity at usage levels.
Origin & sourcing
Natural, derived from the bark of the cork oak, Quercus suber, an evergreen oak native to the western Mediterranean and prized for its renewable cork bark.
Questions everyone asks
Is this related to cork?
Yes. It comes from the bark of the cork oak, the same species harvested to make natural cork.
What is its role in skincare?
It is used as a conditioning, antioxidant-associated botanical and does not provide UV protection.