The nettle is a stinging plant that causes irritation and itching upon contact with the skin. However, it is possible to derive an extract from its leaves that offers multiple benefits for the body, skin, and hair. Does this extract possess the same stinging and allergenic properties as the nettle leaf itself? Discover whether its topical application leads to any adverse effects.
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Nettle: What are the adverse effects of topical application?
Summary
- What is nettle?
- Adverse effects of nettle extract in topical application?
- What are the precautions to take before using nettle extract?
- Sources
Published July 18, 2023,
updated on October 4, 2024,
by
Pauline, Head of Scientific Communication
—
4 min read
What is nettle?
The nettle is a plant that thrives in temperate climates. It is characterized by stinging leaves that cause inflammatory reactions on the skin's surface. The nettle belongs to the Urticaceae family, which encompasses numerous species. Two of these are sometimes incorporated into cosmetic care, namely Urtica dioica, or stinging nettle, and Urtica urens, or dwarf nettle. Nettle has been used as a medicinal and cosmetic ingredient since antiquity. The Egyptians notably used it to enhance the growth of their hair and make it shinier.
Thenettle also brings a host of benefits to the skin. Sebum-regulating, it is the ally of oily skin and helps to combat excess sebum. Added to this are antibacterial properties against Cutibacterium acnes and anti-inflammatory properties, making the nettle an ideal ingredient for alleviatingacne. It's also worth noting that it is capable of inhibiting the activity of collagenase and elastase, two enzymes involved in skin aging. Finally, nettle has antioxidant properties thanks to the polyphenols it contains. It can thus protect the skin from free radicals, molecules notably generated in the body after UV exposure and causing several skin disorders (hyperpigmentation, skin sagging, melanomas...).
Adverse effects of nettle extract in topical application?
Unlike the nettle leaf, the nettle extract found in cosmetic care products is a ingredient that does not cause irritation. Its concentration is not subject to any restrictions by European cosmetic regulations, which are based on Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009. This regulation establishes the requirements applicable to cosmetic products, thus providing a regulatory framework for their marketing. This includes measures such as product notification on the market, maintaining a product safety information file, and concentration restrictions when incorporating an active ingredient into a formula.
Nevertheless, nettle is typically used at rates ranging between 2 and 10% in cosmetic care, with higher concentrations not resulting in additional benefits. Moreover, this ingredient can be used by the entire family, including children over three years old. It is also not discouraged for use by pregnant and/or breastfeeding women.
However, it should be noted that the topical application of a skincare product containing nettle extract sometimes results in a slight dryness of the skin. This adverse effect is far from systematic but is occasionally observed. It also depends on the other ingredients present in the skincare formula. Moreover, some individuals may be allergic to nettle extract. Applying this ingredient to their skin can cause temporary redness and itching.
What are the precautions to take before using nettle extract?
If you've just purchased a skincare product containing nettle extract, it's wise to take a few precautions before enjoying its benefits. We first recommend conducting a tolerance test, to ensure that the use of this ingredient does not cause redness, itching, or allergies on your skin. To do this, apply a small amount of the product to a small area of your face, the inside of your elbow, or behind your ear. If you notice no adverse reaction within the following 24 hours, it means your skin tolerates the nettle well.
Sources
Règlement (CE) No 1223/2009 du Parlement Européen et du Conseil.
BENMOUSSA A. & al. Mise en valeur du potentiel nutritionnel et thérapeutique de l’ortie dioïque (Urtica dioïca L.). Hegel (2016).
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