What are the benefits of paeoniflorin extarct for skin? 

What's the most effective ingredient in peony?

Peony (Paeonia lactiflora) has been used as a medicine for over 2,000 years, but what truly makes it shine in modern dermatology is the paeoniflorin, abundant in its root bark and petals. Research has shown that paeoniflorin is not only the most abundant signature monomer (accounting for over 80% of the total flavonoids in the root), but also the functional molecule with the most robust in vitro and in vivo evidence.

In addition to paeoniflorin, peony roots also contain polyphenolic, triterpenoid, and flavonoid companion components such as paeoniflorin and PGG (penta-O-galloyl-β-D-glucose). These synergize with paeoniflorin to achieve multiple skincare benefits, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-glycation, and tyrosinase inhibition. Therefore, the industry considers paeoniflorin content the gold standard for peony extract quality—only extracts containing 98% or more paeoniflorin qualify as the primary active ingredient in functional skincare products.

What are the benefits of paeoniflorin extarct for skin? 

Moisturizing and Barrier Strengthening
Transepidermal Water Loss (TEWL) experiments showed that a gel containing 1% peony root extract reduced water evaporation from the stratum corneum by approximately 78%. This mechanism is attributed to upregulating the expression of three barrier protein genes: FLG, LOR, and INV, thereby densifying the stratum corneum.

Antioxidant and Photodamage Repair
Paeoniflorin can directly scavenge OH free radicals and inhibit UVB-induced MMP-9 (collagen degrading enzyme) activity. At a concentration of 0.5 mg/mL, MMP-9 expression decreased by over 70%, thereby mitigating photoaging-induced collagen loss and wrinkles.

Anti-Glycation "Yellow-Reducing"
In vitro studies conducted by Ichimaru Co., Ltd. in Japan have demonstrated that peony root extract can block the binding of AGEs (advanced glycation end products) to their receptor, RAGE, thereby inhibiting the source of skin yellowing and collagen cross-linking and hardening caused by glycation.

Whitening and Spot Lightening
Data from L'Oréal's 3D skin model showed that 300 μg/mL of white peony root extract had comparable inhibitory effects on melanin synthesis to 83 μg/mL of 4-n-butylresorcinol, and was significantly safer.

Anti-inflammatory and Soothing
Paeoniflorin can alleviate redness and stinging caused by exogenous stimuli such as UV rays and smog by downregulating inflammatory factors such as TNF-α and IL-6. In an LPS-induced inflammation model, 0.5 mg/mL of peony root extract reduced inflammatory factor expression by over 50%.

Antibacterial and Acne Care
In vitro antibacterial experiments showed that peony root extract had an MIC as low as 0.01% against common pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus and Propionibacterium acnes, inhibiting both bacterial growth and 5-α-reductase activity, reducing oil secretion and acne formation.

What skincare products contain paeoniflorin?

International Brands
• L’Oréal Paris' "Peony Brightening Series"—the core active ingredient is white peony root extract, which focuses on spot lightening and brightening. Fresh Peony Brightening Essence – Combines peony root and vitamin C derivatives to inhibit melanin.

Representative Chinese Brand

Herbori New Seven White Whitening Essence – Seven White Complex contains white peony root, which works synergistically with traditional Chinese medicinal ingredients such as white peony root and white atractylodes to lighten spots.

Winona Soothing Moisturizing Cream – Combines peony root extract and purslane, designed for sensitive and red skin.

Emerging Performance Brand

Yan Caixi Whitening Trio (Cleanser + Essence + Cream) – Combines peony root extract, gentian root, and niacinamide to lighten melasma in 28 days.

Ximuyuan Peony Soothing Repair Mask – High-concentration paeoniflorin freeze-dried and flash-release technology instantly soothes "mask face."

When purchasing, pay close attention to the ranking of "Peony (PAEONIA LACTIFLORA) Root Extract" in the ingredient list. A top 1/3 indicates sufficient content. Also, verify the registered paeoniflorin content is ≥1%.

Where can I buy paeoniflorin extarct?

• SOST Biotech: We offer cosmetic-grade root extract with ≥98% paeoniflorin powder, MOQ 1 kg, available with a COA and third-party efficacy report.
• Email: ericyang@xasost.com