TANNIC ACID
Tannic acid is the name used for a group of tannins derived from gallic acid. It occurs naturally in galls, bark and other plant parts, so the same name can point to different botanical raw materials rather than to one plant species or one extract.
TANNIC ACID: what it is
Tannic acid is the name used for a group of tannins derived from gallic acid. It occurs naturally in galls, bark and other plant parts, so the same name can point to different botanical raw materials rather than to one plant species or one extract.
The term is also associated with gallotannins, compounds within the hydrolysable tannin group. Commercial material may come from oak galls or other tannin-rich plant sources. Seeing tannic acid on an ingredient list does not, by itself, identify the plant from which that particular batch was obtained.
TANNIC ACID: what it does in cosmetics
In cosmetics, tannic acid can contribute an astringent effect. In use, astringency is the feeling of skin becoming less slippery and more tightened; it is not the same as hydration or treatment of a skin concern.
It can also be part of a fragrance composition. That role cannot predict the finished product's scent, because a fragrance is built from multiple components. Research involving tannic acid in dressings, gels and other combined materials does not demonstrate a therapeutic effect for an ordinary cosmetic.
Products containing this ingredient
See which products include it and the name used in each composition.
