SpecKare® Shikimic Acid
* PRODUCT NAME:
• SpecKare® Shikimic Acid
* INCI NAME:
• Shikimic Acid
* PACKAGING:
• 1kg/25 kg
* ORIGIN:
• China
* CAS Number:
•138-59-0
* INTRODUCTION:
• SpecKare® Shikimic Acid is a natural white to off-white powder extracted from the dried mature fruits of Magnoliaceae plants such as star anise.
• Shikimic Acid is an important starting material in several multi-step biochemical processes found in organisms ranging from bacteria, fungi, parasites to plants.
* KEY COMPONENTS:
• Shikimic Acid not only nourishes cells but also serves as a starting material for antiviral drugs such as oseltamivir (brand name: Tamiflu).
• In cosmetics, SpecKare® Shikimic Acid is used for antioxidant, exfoliating, anti-aging, deodorizing, antimicrobial, and anti-acne applications.
* EFFICACY STUDIES:
1. Non-Irritating:
• Mild AHA – Suitable for Sensitive Skin:
• Belongs to the alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) group but does not cause irritation, making it ideal for gentle and safe skincare products.
• Chemical Exfoliation & Skin Regeneration: Loosens connections between epidermal cells (corneocytes), promoting natural exfoliation and supporting new skin regeneration.
=> After 1 hour of use, TEWL (transepidermal water loss) increased significantly, indicating partial shedding of the stratum corneum. At 5% Shikimic Acid, the TEWL increase was 17% higher than 50% Glycolic Acid samples, without causing irritation (according to dermatological evaluation and confocal microscopy).
2. Antimicrobial & Support for Seborrheic Dermatitis:
• Inhibits the growth of bacteria causing seborrheic dermatitis, particularly useful in scalp care products.
• Shikimic Acid can inhibit Malassezia furfur at concentrations above 5%.
• The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against P. acnes is 5–10%.
3. Free Radical Inhibition:
• At 1% concentration, after 15 minutes, Shikimic Acid inhibited fatty acid production by up to 98%, 20 times higher than Triethyl Citrate and 5 times higher than Piroctone Olamine.
• In a sensory trial with 15 volunteers using a 1% Shikimic Acid spray for 15 days, all participants reported very positive deodorizing effects.
4. Sebum and Odor Control:
• Inhibits lipase enzyme activity, preventing fatty acid production, effectively controlling odor and reducing shine.
• Shikimic Acid shows strong, dose-dependent lipase inhibition. At 0.5%, inhibition reached 80%, demonstrating effective biological deodorizing through reduced fatty acid production.
* MARKETING POINT:
• Multifunctional ingredient that protects and maintains essential skin functions.
• Mild AHA, non-irritating, suitable for sensitive skin.
• Highly suitable for oily skin, sensitive skin, or skin affected by seborrheic dermatitis.
• Natural ingredient with sebum control and deodorizing properties—ideal for safe and gentle deodorant products.
• Recommended Usage: 1.0 – 10.0%
• Usage Instructions: Dissolve in water and add in the final stage of formulation.
• Applications: Skincare, scalp care, acne-prone skin products: toner, serum, lotion, cream, etc.
