Burdock root extract, from the plant scientifically known as Arctium lappa and identified in INCI by this name, is rich in antioxidants and has long been used in cosmetics for blemished skin.
The plant grows wild in Asia, North America and Europe, with large green leaves and flowers resembling small purplish thistles. The leaves are used to obtain the extract, but above all the root, which undergoes a cutting and drying process.
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What burdock extract really contains
Burdock's soothing and sebum-balancing properties depend on a specific group of compounds: lignans, inulin, phenolic acids, tannins, flavonoids and phytosterols. These are the functional components of the extract and the focus of research.
It is worth clarifying a point that is often misrepresented in beauty communications. It is often said that burdock is “rich in vitamins A, C and E and minerals such as iron and potassium”. This is true of the root as a food, but much less so of the cosmetic extract: at the concentrations used in a formula, its vitamin and mineral contribution is negligible. What acts on the skin is the polyphenols, not the iron.
A scientific review of Arctium lappa compiled the available evidence on its active compounds, documenting the anti-inflammatory activity of flavonoids and lignans through the reduction of cytokines and prostaglandins. These studies were conducted largely in vitro or on animal models: they indicate a plausible mechanism, not a guaranteed result from a cream.
How burdock works on the skin
Its most established contribution concerns cleansing. Burdock cleanses and purifies gently, including for people with sensitive or acne-prone skin, and helps reduce the feeling of irritation and the appearance of redness.
Tannins give it an astringent effect, making enlarged pores less noticeable, while flavonoids help modulate the inflammatory component, thereby supporting the skin barrier.
Emollient properties are also recognised: the fatty acids found in the root, linoleic acid and oleic acid, help maintain skin softness.
One important clarification: burdock is a cosmetic ingredient and improves the appearance of the skin. In the presence of dermatitis, psoriasis, eczema or other skin conditions, the reference point remains the dermatologist: a well-formulated cleanser can complement a daily routine, but it cannot replace treatment.
Who it is suitable for
Its natural territory is combination and oily skin with recurring blemishes, particularly skin that reacts poorly to harsh cleansers: burdock provides a purifying action while keeping the formula tolerable.
It works well alongside more intensive anti-blemish actives, such as salicylic acid and tea tree oil, because it counterbalances their tendency to dry the skin.
Burdock in Cleansing Active Mousse
One example is Cleansing Active Mousse, the foaming cleanser that removes impurities through the synergistic action of salicylic acid, tea tree oil, betaine and burdock.
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It is designed to meet the cleansing needs of oily and acne-prone skin, and is also well tolerated by skin prone to redness thanks to burdock's soothing properties.
To enhance the purifying action, simply leave the product on the skin for a few seconds before rinsing with lukewarm water.
You can also find LeLang products in partner pharmacies throughout Italy.
Frequently asked questions about burdock
Does burdock treat acne?
No, and no cosmetic can do so. It helps keep the skin clean and reduce the appearance of blemishes. Acne is a dermatological condition: for inflammatory forms, the reference point is a dermatologist.
Can I use burdock tea on my face?
It is a traditional herbal practice, but a homemade infusion has an unpredictable concentration, no preservation system and a real microbiological risk. Cosmetic extract is standardised and stabilised.
Should people allergic to Asteraceae avoid it?
Yes, as a precaution. Burdock belongs to the Asteraceae family, the same family as chamomile, ragweed and mugwort, and cross-reactions have been documented.
Is it suitable during pregnancy?
There are no known restrictions for topical cosmetic use. Oral consumption of burdock-based preparations is discouraged during pregnancy, however: these are two different things, but it is worth not confusing them.
Can burdock dry out the skin?
The tannin component has an astringent effect, but at cosmetic concentrations it is among the gentlest purifying actives. It is often chosen precisely to make formulas for blemished skin more tolerable.
