Active Aqueous Extract of Red Grape, Organic, 100 ml

Red grape active aqueous extract is a water-soluble active ingredient obtained from the fruit of the common grape vine (Vitis vinifera) from certified organic cultivation. In a formulation it works as an antioxidant component of the water phase. It is added to serums, toners, creams, shampoos, and shower and bath products, where it is intended to support the protection of skin cells against environmental influences and complement the care of skin showing signs of ageing. The extract is preserved and certified to the COSMOS Organic standard, so it can also be used in formulations intended to qualify as natural or organic cosmetics.

No alcohol or other solvents are used in the extraction, apart from water and vegetable glycerine. This also makes it suitable for formulations in which you want to avoid alcohol.

Key benefits

• Antioxidant action – the manufacturer states an antioxidant effect and protection of skin cells. The extract is therefore added mainly to products with a protective focus.
• Care of skin showing signs of ageing – the declared effects also include action against signs of ageing. This cosmetic claim applies in serums, creams, and eye-area products.
• Wide range of uses – the extract is intended for the face, eye area, body, hair, and scalp, in both rinse-off and leave-on products.
• Suitable for sensitive skin and children’s cosmetics – the manufacturer recommends it for all skin types, including sensitive and dry skin. The product contains no fragrance allergens or food allergens.
• Easy processing – the finished aqueous solution does not need to be dissolved or dispersed; simply stir it into the water phase at a temperature below 40 °C.
• Organic quality and eco profile – COSMOS Organic certificate, GMO-free plant origin, and ready biodegradability according to OECD 301 tests.

Use in a formulation

The extract is added to the water phase. In emulsions, stir it in only after emulsification, during cooling, once the temperature drops below 40 °C. In toners, water-based hydrating serums, or shower gels, it is incorporated cold, without heating.

The indicative usage rate is 1–10%. Choose the specific rate according to the type of product and verify it in the finished formulation.

The solution has an acidic pH of 2.6–3.5. At a higher usage rate it therefore lowers the pH of the whole water phase, and the final pH of the finished product must be measured and adjusted if necessary. The extract is compatible with formulations of an acidic character.

The extract is preserved (Sodium Benzoate and Potassium Sorbate), but these preservatives protect only the solution itself, not the finished product. Every water-based or emulsion product containing the extract therefore needs its own preservative system suited to its composition and pH.

Suitable for products such as

• Face serums and toners – the water base, low processing temperature, and acidic pH of the extract suit light leave-on products with an antioxidant focus.
• Creams and emulsions for the face and eye area – added to the water phase while the emulsion is cooling.
• Body lotions and gels – as an active ingredient in products intended for the whole body.
• Shampoos, conditioners, and scalp products – the extract is intended for all hair types.
• Shower and bath products – in rinse-off products it serves as a plant-based active ingredient with organic certification.
• Children’s cosmetics – the manufacturer lists it among the recommended uses.

Good to know

Thickeners sensitive to low pH, for example carbomers, may lose viscosity after the acidic extract is added. In gel systems we recommend adding the extract only to the finished gel and then adjusting the pH, or choosing a thickener that is stable in an acidic environment.

The extract is not suitable for anhydrous products, that is, oil serums, balms, or butter-based creams. The aqueous solution does not dissolve in oil and separates without an emulsifier.

When choosing a preservative, take the acidic pH of the extract into account. Preservatives that are effective in an acidic environment complement it well; with other systems, verify their effectiveness in the finished formulation. The substance is not classified as hazardous under the CLP regulation.

Difference from grape seed oil

Red grape active aqueous extract and grape seed oil (Vitis Vinifera Seed Oil) are two different raw materials from the same plant. The oil is pressed from the seeds, belongs to the oil phase, and acts as an emollient in a formulation. The aqueous extract comes from the fruit, is water-soluble, belongs to the water phase, and is used as an active ingredient. Both raw materials can be combined in one emulsion, but each in a different phase.

Frequently asked questions