Common Name(s): Cinchona calisaya extract,quinine bark extract,peruvian bark extract

DESCRIPTION

What It Does: Tones and tightens skin while providing antimicrobial protection.

Why It's Used: Cinchona bark is historically known as the source of quinine alkaloids; in cosmetics, the extract provides astringency and mild antimicrobial activity.

How It Works: Quinine and cinchonine alkaloids from cinchona bark have astringent effects by protein precipitation on skin surface; antioxidant polyphenols contribute to toning activity.

Typically Found In: Toners,astringent products,acne treatments,hair tonics,scalp treatments

TECHNICAL DETAILS

Primary Category: Active ingredient – astringent

Secondary Functions: Antimicrobial,skin conditioning,antioxidant

Application Areas:

Typical Concentration Range: 0.1%–2%

SOURCING & ETHICS

Vegan Status: Conditional - supplier confirmation required

Halal Status: Unverified - supplier confirmation required

Source Notes: Cinchona calisaya bark extract (natural plant origin); cinchona tree grown in tropical south america. [audit 2026-07-29 rev2: the record's own source_notes does not assert a non-animal origin, or instructs the reader to verify with the supplier; "yes" asserts knowledge the record does not hold. determination requires shariah-panel sign-off.]

SKIN COMPATIBILITY

Irritancy Rating: 2/5 – low-moderate; astringents can cause dryness

Comedogenicity Rating: 0/5 – non-comedogenic

Sensitivity Concerns: Generally well tolerated at low concentrations; rare sensitivity to quinine alkaloids; avoid in pregnant women (quinine concerns).

Safe for Sensitive Skin: Conditional – avoid in pregnancy

SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY

Safety Profile: Moderate safety profile. ewg score: 1–3.

Works Well With: Witch hazel,niacinamide,tea tree oil,other astringents

Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities at typical use levels

SCIENTIFIC NOTE

Cinchona calisaya contains quinine (antimalaria alkaloid), quinidine, cinchonine, and cinchonidine; topical quinine has been used in hair loss treatments (historical use); astringent tannins provide toning effects.

Last Verified: 2026-03-27

Primary Sources: Cosing database,inci dictionary