Salvia Officinalis Extract

Salvia officinalis (sage) extract is used as a botanical antioxidant/astringent in low concentrations, but it contains multiple aromatic/phenolic constituents that can be irritant and has documented potential for allergic contact dermatitis in sensitized individuals. In eczema-prone or barrier-impaired skin, even rinse-off/leave-on products with botanical extracts can contribute to cumulative irritation, especially when layered with other actives. Given real-world variability in extract composition and the non-trivial sensitization risk, a moderate score is most appropriate for patient safety. Safety Notes: In mass-market leave-on skincare (creams/serums/toners) Salvia officinalis (sage) extract is frequently used as a minor botanical supporting ingredient at very low levels (~0.0005–0.05%), often as part of multi-extract blends or to support fragrance/antioxidant/soothing claims. Typical stand-alone positioning in consumer products lands around ~0.1–1%, while high-strength consumer-available formulations (e.g., botanical-focused serums, scalp tonics, and some rinse-off cleansers/shampoos designed around herbal actives) can reach ~2–5% extract depending on extract type and supplier standardization. There is no specific EU/FDA cosmetic maximum for the extract itself, but practical upper limits are usually driven by odor/color, tannin/polyphenol load, and irritation/sensitization risk in leave-on products.