Hordeum Vulgare Seed Extract

This ingredient is also known as barley seed extract. It's a water or glycol-based extract pressed from barley grain and used in skincare for its soothing, moisture-supporting, and antioxidant properties.

Its active parts are beta-glucans (a sugar-like fiber that holds water on the skin and calms visible redness), polyphenols, amino acids, and trace minerals like zinc that help protect skin from free radicals.

Lab tests on human skin cells showed this ingredient helped cells survive and repair after UVB exposure and dialed down the enzymes that break down collagen.

The industry's independent safety panel reviewed barley-derived ingredients in 2026 and found them safe in cosmetics.

Industry reported leave-on concentrations for various extracts generally land at or below 1-2%.

Allergy-wise, the main real-world concern is that barley is a recognized food allergen. People with a diagnosed barley or grain allergy should patch-test or avoid it.