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Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract

What Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract is & what it does

A skullcap root extract rich in antioxidant flavonoids that help calm and protect skin from environmental stress. It supports a more even, comfortable look.

What is Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract and what does it do in sunscreen?

It is an extract from the root of Baikal skullcap, a plant used as a botanical additive in skincare and sunscreen. It is rich in antioxidant flavonoids such as baicalin and baicalein, which help calm the look of stressed skin and defend it against environmental free radicals. In a sunscreen it works alongside the UV filters, supporting a more even, comfortable look rather than providing sun protection itself.

Is Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract safe?

Yes, it is generally considered safe and well tolerated in cosmetics at the small levels used. It is a plant extract valued mainly for its soothing and antioxidant feel, and it is widely used in leave-on products. As with any botanical, people with very reactive or sensitive skin can occasionally react, so a patch test is sensible if you know you are prone to that.

Does Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract clog pores?

Generally no. It is a water-friendly plant extract used in tiny amounts, not a heavy oil or wax, so it is not a typical pore-clogging ingredient. If a product breaks you out, the richer emollients and oils elsewhere in the formula are far more likely the cause.

Is Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract an antioxidant?

Yes, that is its main role here. Its flavonoids act as antioxidants, helping to neutralize free radicals generated by sun and pollution. This supports the work of the UV filters and helps skin look calmer and more even, but it is a supporting ingredient rather than a UV filter.

Is Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract natural?

Yes, it is plant-derived. It is obtained from the root of the Scutellaria baicalensis plant, also known as Baikal or Chinese skullcap. The raw extract is purified and standardized for cosmetic use, but it originates from a natural botanical source.

Sunscreens with Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract

We rate 186 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

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