Hedera Helix Extract

Hedera Helix Extract Description

_Hedera helix_, commonly known as English ivy, is a climbing vine-type plant native to Western Asia and most parts of Europe.

Research shows that – as with most plant extracts – English ivy extract is a source of antioxidants. In addition, studies demonstrate this extract (particularly those from the plant’s leaves) contains flavonoids including quercetin, and phytosterols including skin-conditioning cholesterol.

The other side of that coin, however, is that English ivy extract also has a high amount of a compound called falcarinol, which has extensive evidence showing it causes allergic reactions on skin, even sometimes mimicking a poison ivy reaction.

Though it’s possible this compound can be removed from English ivy extract, there is research showing adverse reactions to cosmetics containing _Hedera helix_, so it’s difficult to know exactly what you’re getting when you see _Hedera helix_ extract listed on a label. For this reason, we advise avoiding products containing it, as it is more likely to harm skin than help it. Plus, there are hundreds of other natural extracts that help skin without posing a risk of irritation.