Populus Tremuloides Bark Extract
Reviewed by Rosie · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Aspen Bark Extract, Populus tremuloides (Aspen) bark extract
Plant extract with proven antioxidant properties | Contains beneficial flavonoids
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
What Is Populus Tremuloides Bark Extract?
Populus tremuloides bark extract is a plant extract with antioxidant properties that also doubles as a preservative in cosmetics. It might also appear as Aspen bark extract or Populus tremuloides (Aspen) bark extract on an ingredient list.
This bark extract is rich in flavonoids, polyphenolic compounds that help protect skin against the damaging effects of environmental agents. Due to the antioxidant properties that flavonoids possess, this extract can help keep skin looking younger and more even while also allowing it to look and feel firmer, longer.
Studies display and outline the presence of salicylates (esters and derivatives of salicylic acid) in Populus tremuloides bark extract. However, the levels of salicylates present are lower than that of willow bark extract and have little chance of working when applied topically to skin in such small amounts. Salicylic acid and its derivates require a set pH range and particular formulary considerations to work properly as an exfoliating ingredient.
Populus tremuloides bark extract exhibits antimicrobial benefits. It’s for this reason why this bark extract is touted as a “natural preservative” for skin care products; however, its benefits in this regard are not considered broad, so should not be used as a product’s sole preservative.
Suppliers of this ingredient recommend using it in percentages between 0.02% and 3%.
*If you are allergic to aspirin, follow your health care provider’s advice about using skin care products with Populus tremuloides Bark Extract.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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ULProspector, Accessed May 2023, Webpage [https://www.ulprospector.com/en/na/PersonalCare/Detail/132748/9278864/Populus-Tremuloides-Bark-Extract]
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PharmaNutrition, October 2013, pages 158-167 [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2213434413000273]
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Wood Science and Technology, February 2009, pages 457-470 [https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00226-009-0240-y]
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Contact Dermatitis, February 2005, pages 93-95 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15725287/]
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