What it is
Viscum album leaf extract is obtained from the leaves of European mistletoe, a semi-parasitic plant containing flavonoids, phenolic acids, and other plant compounds. In skincare and sunscreens it is used at low levels as a skin-conditioning and soothing botanical, and it can contribute mild astringent character. It commonly appears as one element of a botanical blend in lightweight emulsions.
Safety & warnings
Although mistletoe berries are toxic if ingested, the leaf extract used topically at cosmetic levels is generally well tolerated and not associated with notable skin sensitization. It contains no added fragrance. As with any botanical extract, sensitive individuals can occasionally react, and the cosmetic use level is far below any concern relevant to oral exposure.
Origin & sourcing
Natural. It is an extract of the leaves of Viscum album (European mistletoe), prepared in water or solvent systems.
History
European mistletoe has a long history in traditional European herbalism and folk use, and the leaf extract has more recently been incorporated into cosmetic formulations as a soothing botanical.
Questions everyone asks
Is mistletoe extract safe in skincare?
The leaf extract used topically at cosmetic levels is generally well tolerated; toxicity concerns relate to ingesting the berries, not topical use of the leaf extract.
What does it do in a formula?
It acts as a soothing, skin-conditioning botanical with mild astringent character, used at low levels.