Silybum Marianum Extract

INCI: Silybum Marianum (Lady's Thistle) Extract

Milk thistle fruit extract – a source of silymarin, a potent flavonolignan antioxidant. Protects the skin from UV stress and reduces inflammation. Pregnancy-safe.

Anti-aging Protection Soothing

Evidence by route

Topical application

Limited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.

Antioxidant with confirmed protection against UV stress in in vivo models. Moderate evidence.

Katiyar SK. Silymarin and skin cancer prevention. Int J Oncol 2005;26:169-176.
Singh RP et al. Photoprotection by silymarin against UVB damage. Carcinogenesis 2002;23:499-510.

About this ingredient

Milk thistle extract is an extract of Silybum marianum fruits with ethanol or glycol. INCI: Silybum Marianum (Lady's Thistle) Extract. The main active component is silymarin, a mixture of flavonolignans (silibinin, silicristin, silidianin). In cosmetics it works as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. Silymarin neutralizes free radicals, inhibits NF-kB signaling and protects fibroblasts from UV-induced apoptosis. In vivo studies in mouse models confirm reduced UV-induced skin tumors and photodamage. It is used in anti-aging creams, after-sun serums and products for mature and damaged skin. Often combined with vitamins C and E – synergy in antioxidant activity. Use levels run from 0.1 to 2%. Pregnancy safety. Skin absorption into the systemic circulation is minimal. Oral silymarin is used during pregnancy for hepatoprotection (empirically safe). Skin profile. Low irritation potential. Low allergen risk, but the literature describes rare cases of contact dermatitis in people allergic to Asteraceae. Non-comedogenic. Suitable for all skin types. Moderate evidence (B) – in vivo and small clinical data.

Tolerability and safety

Irritation potential

Low

Allergen risk

Low

Pregnancy

Safe

Skin types

Suitable for

NormalDryCombination

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Frequently asked questions

Is Silybum Marianum Extract safe during pregnancy?

Silybum Marianum Extract is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.

What skin types is Silybum Marianum Extract for?

Silybum Marianum Extract suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.

What is Silybum Marianum Extract and what does it do in cosmetics?

Milk thistle fruit extract – a source of silymarin, a potent flavonolignan antioxidant.

Is Silybum Marianum Extract comedogenic?

On the Fulton scale 0/5 – non-comedogenic. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.

What's the INCI name for Silybum Marianum Extract?

The INCI name is Silybum Marianum (Lady's Thistle) Extract. It may also appear as: Silybum Marianum Extract, Milk Thistle Extract, Silymarin.

Published: May 15, 2026 · updated: May 15, 2026