Pycnogenol
INCI: Pinus pinaster bark extract
Reviewed by Emma · Last updated 14 Aug 2026
Pycnogenol is a skin care ingredient and antioxidant
EWG Safety Score
What Is Pycnogenol?
Pycnogenol is a skin care ingredient and antioxidant derived from the bark of the French Maritime pine tree, also known as *Pinus pinaster* bark extract. The term pycnogenol was previously used generically but is now a trademarked ingredient.
Pycnogenol is good for anti-ageing and environmental protection when it comes to skin. This is because pycnogenol contains antioxidant-rich compounds (including procyanidins belonging to the flavonoid family of ingredients). Studies support the claim that pycnogenol is a potent antioxidant that’s good for helping neutralise oxidative stress and is capable of complementing the benefits of daily sunscreen use.
There is also a great deal of research backing pycnogenol as an oral supplement for anti-inflammatory properties, antioxidant benefits, and regeneration of skin’s elasticity.
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Pycnogenol is a variant of Pinus Pinaster Bark/Bud Extract, the form you will most often see on an ingredients list.
A plant extract with antioxidant and purifying properties derived from maritime pine
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