Morus Bombycis Root Extract

Morus bombycis (mulberry) root extract is primarily a botanical antioxidant/brightening agent (often used for tyrosinase inhibition) and is typically included at low concentrations (about 0.1–2%) in leave-on products. Available safety data and cosmetic patch-test experience suggest low irritation risk overall, but as a plant extract it contains multiple bioactive constituents and can trigger stinging or dermatitis in a small subset of highly reactive or eczematous patients. Given the potential for idiosyncratic reactions despite generally good tolerability, I score it as gentle rather than very gentle. Safety Notes: In commercial skincare, Morus bombycis (mulberry) root extract is commonly used as a supporting brightening/antioxidant botanical at very low levels (about 0.001–0.05%) in multi-extract complexes and essence/toner bases, especially in leave-on products where suppliers’ recommended use levels often sit around 0.1–1%. The upper end of the consumer market includes “high-botanical” serums/ampoules and concentrated brightening products that list mulberry root extract prominently and can reach ~2–5% depending on extract type (solvent system and active marker standardization), with rinse-off products typically staying toward the lower half of the range due to cost and limited contact time.