Extracts of the neem tree’s leaves and flowers — one of Ayurvedic tradition’s most-used skin botanicals, now common in clarifying formulations.
How it works
Research associates neem’s limonoids and flavonoids with antimicrobial and antioxidant activity, the basis of its use in products for congestion-prone skin.
Tolerability
Well tolerated at cosmetic levels in rinse-off and leave-on use; the characteristic bitter-green scent is usually blended away.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
At topical cosmetic levels no concern is established; conventionally considered suitable, though concentrated neem oil is a different matter and not what cosmetic extracts contain.
