Best For Skin Types
All, Dry, Sensitive, Combination
Addresses
Usage Frequency
Daily
What Is Hydrolyzed Nettle Leaf Extract?
Hydrolyzed nettle leaf extract is derived from the common nettle plant (Urtica dioica), processed through hydrolysis to break down the plant material into smaller, more bioavailable molecules. This creates a lightweight extract rich in amino acids, minerals, and polysaccharides.
In skincare formulations, it functions primarily as a humectant—drawing moisture into the skin—and as a conditioning agent that helps improve the feel and texture of products. It's commonly found in hair care but increasingly appears in facial and body skincare.
How It Works
Hydrolyzed nettle leaf extract works through multiple mechanisms. As a humectant, its hygroscopic nature allows it to bind water molecules and draw them toward the skin's surface and into the outer layers, improving hydration levels. The amino acids and polysaccharides in the extract may also support the skin's natural moisturising factor.
Additionally, nettle contains bioactive compounds historically associated with skin-soothing properties, though the extent to which these remain active in a hydrolyzed extract varies depending on processing methods.
Clinical Evidence & References
Clinical research specifically on hydrolyzed nettle leaf extract in skincare is limited. Most evidence comes from traditional use and in vitro studies on whole nettle extracts, which suggest anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential. However, the effect of hydrolysis on these properties is not well-documented in peer-reviewed literature.
The ingredient is generally recognised as safe and well-tolerated in cosmetic formulations. Its humectant function is well-established in cosmetic chemistry, though individual efficacy will depend on formulation concentration and other ingredients present.
How to Use
Hydrolyzed nettle leaf extract is typically incorporated into serums, toners, and moisturisers. For best results, apply to clean, slightly damp skin to maximise the humectant effect—the moisture on your skin gives the extract more water to draw in. It pairs well with occlusive ingredients like oils or butters to seal in hydration, and integrates easily into most skincare routines at any frequency.
Safety & Precautions
Frequently Asked Questions
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Hydrolyzed Nettle Leaf Extract is a variant of Urtica Dioica Extract, the form you will most often see on an ingredients list.
Plant extract with antioxidant properties traditionally used to support skin and scalp health
Related Ingredients
Urtica Dioica Extract
Plant extract with antioxidant properties traditionally used to support skin and scalp health
Urtica Dioica
A plant extract traditionally used to condition and support hair and scalp health
Urtica Dioica Root Extract
Root extract traditionally used to support skin condition and comfort
Urtica Dioica Leaf Extract
A plant extract with antioxidant and soothing properties, traditionally used in skincare
Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Extract
Plant extract with soothing properties
Hydrolyzed Honey
A honey-derived humectant that draws moisture into the skin
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