Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
Also known as Aloe vera leaf extract, Aloe vera extract, Aloe barbadensis extract
“CIR Expert Panel says: safe as used in cosmetics.”
The CIR Expert Panel's 2007 comprehensive safety assessment (IJT 26(Suppl. 2):1-50, PMID 17613130) explicitly covers Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract as a distinct INCI from Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice. Both received the same SQ finding — safe in cosmetics provided anthraquinone levels do not exceed 50 ppm. The assessment addressed reproductive toxicity signals, genotoxicity data, and phototoxicity studies, concluding that properly decolorized, anthraquinone-controlled cosmetic-grade extract is safe as used. A 2016 independent toxicity review (PMID 26986231) confirmed that the carcinogenicity concern (IARC Group 2B) relates specifically to whole-leaf extract with intact anthraquinone burden, and is not applicable to cosmetic-grade material meeting the 50 ppm cap.
Skin-soothing, moisturizing, and anti-inflammatory active derived from Aloe barbadensis Mill. (Aloe vera); widely used in after-sun, sensitive-skin, and wound-care formulations
Polysaccharides (acemannan/glucomannans) and phenolic compounds contribute humectant, film-forming, and antioxidant properties
Extract form provides a broader range of bioactive constituents than leaf juice alone; used in higher-potency formulations requiring more concentrated aloe actives
CIR Expert Panel found Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract safe as used in the concentrations described in the 2007 assessment — the same positive verdict as Leaf Juice
Long history of cosmetic use with favorable safety profile when anthraquinone content is controlled to ≤50 ppm per CIR conditions
- · Anthraquinone contamination (principally aloin/barbaloin from the leaf rind) — cosmetic-grade material must be processed to keep anthraquinone levels ≤50 ppm per CIR condition
- · Occasional contact urticaria, allergic contact dermatitis, and contact allergy reported in sensitized individuals
Whole-leaf aloe extract (with intact anthraquinones) showed clear carcinogenic activity in rats and is classified IARC Group 2B (possible human carcinogen); this concern is NOT applicable to cosmetic-grade Leaf Extract meeting the 50 ppm cap
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract is a distinct INCI from Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice — extract is a broader preparation form; both share the same CIR 2007 assessment and the same SQ finding and 50 ppm anthraquinone condition
CIR Quick Reference Table (September 2022) — Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract row: Finding=SQ, Citation=IJT 26(Suppl. 2):1-50, 2007
“Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract | SQ | safe as cosmetic ingredients in the practices of use and concentrations as described in this safety assessment, if anthraquinone levels in the ingredients do not exceed 50 ppm. | IJT 26(Suppl. 2):1‐50, 2007”— QuickReferenceTable_AllConclusionTypes.pdf, p. 22