Achillea Millefolium Extract

Commonly known as yarrow extract

Antioxidant properties can rejuvenate skin’s surface

Has calming abilities

Oil form can help fade dark spots but may also irritate skin

Ruled safe as used in cosmetics

Achillea millefolium extract, more commonly known as yarrow extract, is the extract from the whole yarrow plant, a type of flowering herb native to North America and parts of Europe and Asia. It’s a rich source of antioxidant flavonoids, phenolics, and various fatty acids that contribute to healthier-looking skin.

Long used in European folk medicine (particularly for internal ailments), research is diving deeper into Achillea millefolium extract’s topical benefit for skin, and the results are highly encouraging.

Studies show this extract has antioxidant properties that can rejuvenate skin’s surface, leading to a more youthful appearance. Of particular interest is research showing that Achillea millefolium extract can fight factors that lead to visible skin irritation – essentially, that it is a calming ingredient.

Research has also shown that various compounds in this plant’s oil, particularly linalyl acetate, play a role in fading the appearance of dark spots; however, this compound is also a source of fragrance and can irritate skin. For this reason, we prefer the extract form of this plant instead of the oil.

The independent Cosmetic Ingredient Review has ruled that Achillea millefolium extract is safe as used in cosmetics at its current concentrations, which range from 0.000005-0.04%. The bioavailability of this extract is improved when added to a glycol base.