What it is
Pine leaf extract comes from the needles of Korean red pine (Pinus densiflora) and contains polyphenols such as flavonoids and proanthocyanidins plus small amounts of volatile compounds. Labels list it as pine leaf extract or Pinus densiflora leaf extract.
It appears in 62 Korean products, in herbal and naturalist-concept lines, soothing toners and scalp products. Pine needles are a familiar Korean material, so it features often in brand stories.
Role in cosmetics
Calming and antioxidant
Research shows its polyphenols neutralize free radicals and reduce inflammatory signals, the basis for its use in soothing and antioxidant products. Korean research on it is relatively rich.
Scalp and fresh feel
The clean scent and astringency of its volatile compounds place it in scalp products and toners for oily skin.
Evidence and scope
The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of red pine needle extract is supported by Korean cell and animal studies, but human studies at cosmetic levels are rare. Active content is not stated, so products are hard to compare.
Concentration and formulation
The extract is used at 0.5 to 5 percent. Water-soluble, it fits toners, serums and shampoos, and its volatile compounds can leave a characteristic scent.
Cautions
Irritation and allergy are rare. Material containing volatile compounds may carry small amounts of fragrance allergens, so those with fragrance allergies should patch test.
Similar ingredients
| Green Tea ExtractGreen Tea Extract | Green tea extract is the leading plant antioxidant with far more evidence, while pine leaf extract is a supporting ingredient chosen for Korean naturalist positioning. |
| MugwortArtemisia Princeps Extract | Mugwort extract is another Korean native soothing ingredient used with it in herbal lines. Mugwort has more calming research; pine needle has more antioxidant research. |
Frequently asked questions
Does it smell like pine?+−
It depends on refining; products that keep the raw material's character retain a faint pine scent.
Should I avoid it with a pine allergy?+−
Pine pollen allergy and reactions to needle extract differ, but patch test if concerned.
Is it fine for acne-prone skin?+−
Its fresh feel and anti-inflammatory research make it common in toners for oily and acne-prone skin.
Sources and review date
- CosIng 성분 정보: Pinus Densiflora Leaf ExtractEuropean Commission · 2025
- Pinus densiflora 잎 추출물 항산화·항염 연구 (PubMed 검색)PubMed · 2024
Last reviewed 2026.09.23 · Next review 2027.03.23
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