Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit Water
INCI: VACCINIUM MYRTILLUS FRUIT WATER
Reviewed by Emma · Last updated 14 Aug 2026
A plant-derived water with polyphenols that may help protect skin from UV-induced damage
Best For Skin Types
All, Sensitive
Addresses
Usage Frequency
Daily
What Is Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit Water?
Vaccinium myrtillus fruit water is derived from bilberries, a berry native to northern Europe. It contains naturally occurring polyphenols and anthocyanins — compounds with antioxidant properties — extracted into a water-based form for use in skincare formulations.
In topical products, it functions primarily as a skin conditioner, helping to support skin's moisture retention and overall condition. The polyphenol content is what distinguishes it from a standard plant water, offering potential protective benefits beyond basic hydration.
How It Works
The active compounds in bilberry fruit water — primarily anthocyanins and polyphenols — work as antioxidants. They can donate electrons to free radicals (unstable molecules created by UV exposure, pollution and oxidative stress), effectively neutralising them before they damage skin cells.
In cell studies, applying the extract before UV exposure appeared to reduce the damage markers typically seen after radiation. However, this does not mean topical application replaces sunscreen; rather, it may offer a complementary protective layer as part of a broader sun protection strategy.
Clinical Evidence & References
In vitro research (conducted in human cell cultures) shows that a polyphenol-rich bilberry extract can reduce markers of UVA and UVB-induced damage in keratinocytes when applied before irradiation. The extract reduced cytotoxicity and genotoxicity in treated cells compared to unprotected controls.
However, evidence from human clinical trials remains limited. The protective effect observed in cells does not automatically translate to the same level of protection in living skin, where absorption, penetration and other factors come into play. More human studies are needed to determine practical benefit at concentrations used in commercial skincare products.
How to Use
Bilberry fruit water is typically found in serums, essences or toners at modest concentrations. Use it as part of your morning routine, particularly before sun exposure, to potentially enhance your skin's antioxidant defence. Layer it under your regular sunscreen for best effect. It can also be used in evening routines as a general skin conditioner.
Safety & Precautions
Frequently Asked Questions
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Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit Water is a variant of Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit/Leaf Extract, the form you will most often see on an ingredients list.
A plant extract with astringent and antioxidant properties from bilberry fruit and leaves
Related Ingredients
Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit/Leaf Extract
A plant extract with astringent and antioxidant properties from bilberry fruit and leaves
Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit Extract
Natural extract that comes from bilberry (a dark berry similar to blueberries)
Vaccinium Myrtillus Leaf Cell Extract
A plant extract rich in antioxidants that may help protect skin from environmental stress
Vaccinium Myrtillus Stem Extract
A plant-derived antioxidant from bilberry stems that helps protect and tone the skin
Vaccinium Myrtillus Bud Extract
Plant extract rich in polyphenols, commonly used as an antioxidant in skincare
Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit Juice
A fruit juice extract rich in anthocyanins and polyphenols for skin conditioning
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