Larrea Divaricata Extract

Larrea divaricata (chaparral/creosote bush) extract is a botanical antioxidant/anti-inflammatory used at low concentrations, but it contains resinous phenolics (e.g., NDGA-related compounds) that are recognized causes of contact irritation and occasional allergic contact dermatitis in susceptible individuals. Because standardized clinical patch-test data in modern cosmetic vehicles is limited and plant extracts have higher variability/impurity risk, I score it as moderate and recommend patch testing for eczema-prone or highly reactive skin. Safety Notes: In commercial skincare, Larrea divaricata (commonly positioned as a botanical antioxidant/soothing or antimicrobial extract) is most often included at very low levels (~0.01–0.1%) as part of multi-extract blends in leave-on serums/creams and aftershaves, reflecting typical supplier recommended use rates for standardized extracts. Higher-strength consumer products marketed around oily/acne-prone skin or scalp care (leave-on spot gels/toners and some rinse-off cleansers/shampoos) have been observed using roughly 1–3% when the extract is a named “active” and the formula is built around it; above this becomes uncommon due to odor/color, solubility, and tolerability constraints typical of resinous Larrea extracts.