Coptis Chinensis Root Extract

Coptis Chinensis Root Extract is also known as huanglian or Chinese goldthread. It is a plant extract with soothing and antioxidant properties.

This plant naturally contains berberine, a compound that lab studies suggest can help "turn down" inflammation signals and oxidative stress, and make it harder for certain microbes to thrive. While topical berberine research does support anti-inflammatory potential in dermatitis-like models, most of the stronger evidence is preclinical.

That's why you'll frequently see this ingredient in formulations aimed at redness, blemish-prone skin, or sensitive skin.

A small human photopatch study reported that "coptis" at 5% did not trigger photoallergic/photosensitive reactions in the tested group. Like other botanical extracts, it may cause allergies in some. Be sure to patch test if you're weary.