Ellagic Acid

INCI: Ellagic Acid

Also known as: Pomegranate polyphenol

BrighteningbrighteningbotanicalModerate evidencePregnancy safe

Skinlumis Rating

Comedogenic

0/5

Irritancy

0/5

Best applied

Both

Effective range

0.5%–2%

How It Works

A polyphenol abundant in pomegranates, strawberries, and oak galls. Both a tyrosinase inhibitor and a powerful antioxidant.

Chelates copper in the tyrosinase active site and scavenges reactive oxygen species. Also inhibits MMP-1, slowing collagen breakdown.

pH Range

5.0–7.0

Benefits

Brightens
Antioxidant
Anti-inflammatory
Protects collagen
Natural and well-tolerated

Proven For

What the evidence supports.

HyperpigmentationUV-induced damage

Best For

All skin types

Avoid If

No notable contraindications reported.

Layering Order

4/10

Mid-routine serum or treatment step.

Max Safe Concentration

Concentration range in well-formulated products: 0.5%–2%

Seasonal Use

Year-round.

Nutrition Connection

Pomegranate, strawberries, raspberries, walnuts.

Skin Signals When You Need It

No specific deficiency signals tracked for this ingredient.

For Estheticians & Professionals

Sustainable polyphenol upgrade for brightening serums.

Clinical Evidence

The research behind Ellagic Acid.

3 peer-reviewed studies

Every claim on this page traces to published research. Findings below are drawn from randomized trials and systematic reviews, each links to the study on PubMed.

Randomized Controlled Trial

Vitamin C showed comparable efficacy to hydroquinone for melasma treatment.

Espinal-Perez LE, Moncada B, Castanedo-Cazares JP
International Journal of Dermatology, 2004

View Study →

Randomized Controlled Trial

Niacinamide inhibits melanosome transfer to keratinocytes, reducing hyperpigmentation by up to 35%.

Hakozaki T, Minwalla L, Zhuang J et al.
British Journal of Dermatology, 2002

View Study →

Randomized Controlled Trial

Azelaic acid comparable to hydroquinone for hyperpigmentation with superior safety across all Fitzpatrick types.

Balina LM, Graupe K
International Journal of Dermatology, 1991

View Study →

Pairs Well With

Vitamin CNiacinamide Resveratrol

Conflicts With

No flagged conflicts. Still, patch-test new actives.

Your Skin Compatibility