Sambucus Canadensis Extract

Sambucus canadensis (elderberry) extract is a botanical antioxidant/soothing claim ingredient typically used at low concentrations, but like many plant extracts it contains a complex mixture of phenolics and other constituents that can trigger stinging or dermatitis in reactive or eczema-prone skin. Clinical patch-test data for this specific extract is limited, so safety assessments rely on the broader pattern that botanicals show occasional irritancy/allergy despite “gentle” marketing. Given the uncertainty and the meaningful risk of idiosyncratic reactions in highly sensitive patients, I rate it as mild rather than inherently gentle. Safety Notes: In mass-market lotions, toners, cleansers, and shampoos, Sambucus canadensis (elderberry) extract is typically used as a minor botanical supporting ingredient at ~0.001–0.1% active extract (often supplied as a dilute glycerin/propylene glycol or water-based extract, so the as-supplied addition may be higher). In more botanical-forward leave-on serums/masks and “superfruit antioxidant” products sold OTC, concentrated extracts are sometimes used around ~1–3%, with occasional high-strength formulas reaching ~5% when stability/odor/color and skin tolerance allow. No specific global maximum is set for this INCI in EU/FDA cosmetics, so practical formulation constraints largely define the observed upper end.