Polypodium Leucotomos

INCI: Polypodium Leucotomos Extract

Also known as: Heliocare extract

BotanicalsantioxidantbotanicalModerate evidencePregnancy safe

Skinlumis Rating

Comedogenic

0/5

Irritancy

0/5

Best applied

Both

Effective range

0.5%–3%

How It Works

A fern extract with strong photoprotective antioxidant activity. Used both topically and orally as 'edible sunscreen' adjunct.

Polyphenols scavenge UV-induced ROS, protect Langerhans cells, and reduce DNA damage from sunlight.

pH Range

5.0–7.0

Benefits

Internal/external photoprotection
Reduces UV-induced erythema
Supports melasma management

Proven For

What the evidence supports.

PhotoagingMelasmaPolymorphic light eruption

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%–3%

Seasonal Use

Year-round; especially summer/travel.

Nutrition Connection

Heliocare oral capsules clinically validated for PLE.

Skin Signals When You Need It

No specific deficiency signals tracked for this ingredient.

For Estheticians & Professionals

Pair oral + topical for travel and melasma prevention.

Clinical Evidence

The research behind Polypodium Leucotomos.

4 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

Daily sunscreen use reduced photoaging markers by 24% over 4.5 years compared to discretionary use.

Hughes MCB, Williams GM, Baker P, Green AC
Annals of Internal Medicine, 2013

View Study →

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

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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

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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 CSPF

Conflicts With

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

Your Skin Compatibility