Ginkgo extract – tradition, science, and modern skincare

Ginkgo is one of the oldest plants still existing on earth. As ginkgo extract, it is possible to utilize its beneficial active ingredients in cosmetic products for skin and hair care. Its extraordinary resistance to environmental stress, pests, and extreme climatic conditions makes it not only botanically unique, but also highly interesting for skin care.

Today, cosmetic applications primarily focus on standardized ginkgo extract, which has been intensively researched and technologically optimized for decades.

Botany and natural origin

Ginkgo biloba is dioecious and the last representative of its botanical order. Its characteristic fan-shaped leaves are considered a symbol of harmony and stability.

The quality of ginkgo extract begins with its cultivation:

• Propagation via cuttings to ensure homogeneous plant quality
• Undemanding and pest-resistant
• Sensitive to waterlogging
• Harvested in late summer or fall while the leaves are still green
• Gentle air drying to preserve bioactive substances

Ginkgo extract is obtained using a standardized acetone-water process in accordance with the European Pharmacopoeia. Undesirable components such as ginkgolic acids are removed, while relevant active ingredients are specifically enriched.

Active ingredients in ginkgo extract

A high-quality ginkgo extract is characterized by the following ingredients:

Flavonoids

• Quercetin
• Kaempferol
• Isorhamnetin

Properties:

• Strong antioxidant
• Protection against free radicals
• Stabilization of cellular structures

Terpenelactones

• Ginkgolides
• Bilobalide

These components make ginkgo extract particularly valuable in terms of its functionality and are largely responsible for its cosmetic relevance.

Effect of ginkgo in and on the skin

The cosmetic significance of ginkgo extract is based on several synergistic mechanisms:

Antioxidant protection

UV radiation, environmental pollution, and stress lead to the formation of free radicals. Ginkgo extract acts as an effective radical scavenger and can reduce oxidative cell stress. This makes ginkgo extract ideal for anti-aging and urban skin concepts.

Supports microcirculation

Traditionally, ginkgo extract is associated with microcirculation-promoting properties. In cosmetic products, this can contribute to:

• a revitalized complexion
• improved nutrient supply
• a fresher appearance

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Barrier-strengthening effects

The antioxidant protection provided by ginkgo extract and the improved supply of nutrients to the skin can indirectly contribute to stabilizing the skin barrier—especially in mature or stressed skin.

Formulation approaches with ginkgo

Ginkgo extract can be integrated in many ways:

Serums for Revitalization

Revitalizing serums with ginkgo extract are particularly suitable for tired, dull, or urban-stressed skin. Due to its antioxidant properties, ginkgo extract can help reduce oxidative stress caused by UV radiation, fine dust, and environmental factors.

Ginkgo extract is particularly effective in low-viscosity, fast-absorbing systems (e.g., hydro serums or light emulsion serums), as it aids penetration and makes the skin appear fresher immediately. In combination with hyaluronic acid, panthenol, or niacinamide, it creates a holistic “revitalization concept” that combines moisture, protection, and skin improvement.

Ideal for:

• Urban skin
• First signs of aging
• Stressed skin

Anti-aging emulsions

In O/W emulsions for day or night care, ginkgo extract can serve as an antioxidant base component. The focus here is primarily on preventing skin aging.

By supporting microcirculation, the skin can appear more vital, while flavonoids neutralize free radicals. In combination with peptides, retinol derivatives, or vitamin C derivatives, modern anti-aging systems with synergistic effects are created.

Technologically relevant:

• Concentrations of use depending on standardization
• pH-stable integration into classic emulsion systems
• Good combinability with lipid components

Particularly suitable for:

• Mature skin
• Loss of elasticity
• Complexion with reduced radiance

Eye Care Products

The eye area benefits particularly from the microcirculation-supporting properties of ginkgo extract.

It can be used in eye creams or gels to:

• Support a fresh appearance
• Reduce tired-looking skin
• Supplement caffeine in “anti-puffiness” concepts

Since the periorbital skin is very thin, well-standardized, low-dose extracts should be used to minimize the potential for irritation.

Suggested textures:

• Light gel creams
• Emulsion gels
• Liposomal systems for optimized release

Masks in combination with plant oils

In masks, ginkgo extract unfolds its potential particularly well in combination with plant oils.

This creates a dual approach:

• Ginkgo extract: antioxidant & revitalizing
• Plant oils (e.g., jojoba, almond, squalane): lipid replenishing & barrier strengthening

Such systems are ideal for:

• Stressed skin
• Regeneration concepts
• Spa or detox lines

In emulsion masks or rich cream masks, blood circulation can appear to be stimulated, which can lead to a rosier complexion.

Toning Cleansing Products

In toning cleansing products, ginkgo extract adds functional value to otherwise purely mechanical or surfactant-based systems.

In combination with:

• mild surfactants
• low doses of alcohol
• moisturizing factors

a refreshing, invigorating skin feeling can be created.

Important here:

• Take short contact time into account
• Check stability in the aqueous system
• Plan for oxidation protection in the overall system

Suitable for:

• Morning activation routines
• Men’s care
• Sports or active cosmetics concepts

Scalp Products to Support Microcirculation

Ginkgo extract also opens up interesting perspectives in scalp products.

The scalp is highly vascularized, which is why concepts to support microcirculation are particularly relevant. In combination with caffeine, niacin, or plant extracts, a stimulating scalp serum or tonic can be developed.

Possible applications:

• Leave-on scalp serums
• Activating hair tonics
• Pre-wash treatments

The focus here is not on a medical claim, but rather on:

• • Scalp care
  • Vitalization
  • Supporting a healthy scalp environment

Synergistic combinations

• Vitamin C derivatives
• Niacinamide
• Hyaluronic acid
• Peptides
• Caffeine

In modern concepts, ginkgo extract is often combined with antioxidant networks to develop holistic protection systems.

Possibilities and regulatory limits

Possibilities:

• Antioxidant claim
• Protection against environmental stress
• Support for a vital complexion
• Care for mature or dull skin

Limits

• No medicinal claims (e.g., treatment of circulatory disorders)
• Use of standardized extract qualities only
• Control of ginkgolic acid content
• Sensitization potential at very high concentrations

In cosmetics, the preventive, protective, and revitalizing effects of ginkgo extract are clearly in the foreground.

Conclusion

Ginkgo extract combines botanical history with modern extraction technology and scientifically based application. As a traditional, intensively researched plant ingredient, ginkgo extract offers antioxidant strength, support for microcirculation, and versatile formulation options.

This means that ginkgo extract remains a timeless component of nature-inspired, evidence-based skincare concepts.

New products for your brand with Ginkgo biloba

For a quick market entry, Tojo Cosmetics offers immediately available, EU-compliant white label products in which this active ingredient is already formulated.

For individual production orders, Cosactive offers formulation-tested active ingredient mixtures starting from small quantities.

At our partner company Cosmacon, we are happy to support you in developing individual products with this innovative active ingredient.

Just ask us today!

 

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