Plant Extracts

Solanum Melongena Fruit Powder

INCI: SOLANUM MELONGENA FRUIT POWDER

Reviewed by Daisy · Last updated 14 Aug 2026

A plant-derived powder from eggfruit with mild astringent and antioxidant properties

Best For Skin Types

Oily, Combination

Addresses

Oil control, Pore minimising

Usage Frequency

Daily

What Is Solanum Melongena Fruit Powder?

Solanum melongena fruit powder is derived from the eggplant (aubergine), a member of the nightshade family. The fruit is dried and ground into a fine powder, which contains naturally occurring compounds including phenolic acids and flavonoids. These constituents give the powder mild astringent and antioxidant characteristics.

In skincare formulations, this ingredient is primarily used in oral care products, though it may appear in some topical formulations. Its astringent nature means it can help tighten or tone tissue, whilst its antioxidant content may offer protective benefits against environmental stressors.

How It Works

The astringent effect occurs because certain compounds in eggfruit powder can temporarily contract or tighten skin tissue, reducing the appearance of pores and excess oil on the surface. This is a physical and chemical interaction rather than a deep structural change.

The antioxidant compounds work by donating electrons to unstable free radicals, preventing them from damaging skin cells and collagen. This protective mechanism may help slow visible signs of environmental ageing, though the degree of benefit depends on concentration and formulation stability.

Clinical Evidence & References

Evidence specific to solanum melongena fruit powder in skincare is limited. Most research on eggplant extracts focuses on oral health applications or internal consumption, where the ingredient's antimicrobial and antioxidant properties have been explored.

The antioxidant and astringent potential of nightshade fruits is well-established in botanical literature, but direct clinical studies evaluating topical efficacy in skincare products are sparse. Any benefits should be considered as modest support rather than primary treatment, particularly given typical usage concentrations in cosmetic formulations.

How to Use

Solanum melongena fruit powder works best in cleansing products, masks, or exfoliating formulations where its texture and mild astringency can be optimised. If using a product containing this ingredient, apply to clean skin and follow with an appropriate moisturiser to balance any tightening effect. Patch test first if you have sensitive skin, as the powder texture may cause mild irritation in some individuals.

Safety & Precautions

Solanum melongena is generally well-tolerated and safe for topical use. Those with known sensitivities to nightshade plants should exercise caution, though topical reactions are rare.

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Part of a family

Solanum Melongena Fruit Powder is a variant of Solanum Melongena Fruit Extract, the form you will most often see on an ingredients list.

Plant extract derived from the solanum melongena berry | Contains antioxidant rich polyphenols

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