EWG Safety Score
Illicium Verum Anise Fruit Extract products at Skintique
View all →
What Is Illicium Verum Anise Fruit Extract?
Illicium verum (Anise) fruit extract, also known as aniseed and star anise, is a perfuming agent used in skin care that adds a pungent licorice aroma to products. Illicium verum fruit extract is plant-derived, taken from the star-shaped fruit of the Illicium verum evergreen tree. This extract can have antioxidant properties, with research demonstrating that it often contains gallic acid. Although this ingredient can have antioxidant benefits because of its phenolic compounds, its fragrant components make this a potential skin sensitizer. These same volatile aromatic components can also cause photosensitivity when skin is exposed to UV light. Other research suggests that this plant-extract might curb the growth of unwanted microorganisms. Overall, it’s best to skip out on using Illicium verum (anise) fruit extract and instead use fragrance-free antioxidants that can benefit skin without risk of sensitization.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
-
Molecules, February 2022, pages 650-667 Molecules, 2022
-
Arthropod-Plant Interactions, April 2017, pages 203-212 Arthropod-Plant Interactions, 2017
-
Journal of Medicinal Plants Research, January 2012, pages 314- 324 Journal of Medicinal Plants Research, 2012
From the Clinic
Not sure what your skin actually needs?
Two minutes, a few questions, and we’ll point you at what matters — no guesswork.
Take the skin quizRelated Ingredients
Hyssopus Officinalis Herb Oil
A fragrant herb oil derived from hyssop plant with antioxidant properties
Ilex Paraguariensis Leaf Extract
A polyphenol-rich plant extract with antioxidant and skin-conditioning properties
Ilex Paraguariensis Leaf Oil
A fragrant botanical oil derived from South American holly leaves
Illicium Verum Fruit Extract
A traditional botanical extract with emerging evidence for soothing skin support
Iritone
A fragrance component used to add scent to skincare formulations
Isobutyl Butyrate
A volatile ester used primarily to deliver fragrance in skincare formulations
Learn More About Skincare Ingredients
Explore our comprehensive ingredient glossary to understand what's in your products.
Browse All IngredientsShop Our Products
Find professional skincare solutions at Skintique.