Phytomelanin
Phytomelanin is a plant-derived pigment that mimics the natural melanin found in human skin and hair. It offers gentle colour and protective properties in beauty formulas, making it popular in clean and natural cosmetics. Shoppers will find it in sunscreens, tinted moisturisers, hair care and lip products as a safer, botanical alternative to synthetic dyes.
How it works in skincare
In skincare and cosmetics, phytomelanin functions as a natural chromophore that absorbs and scatters UV light while imparting a soft, even tone. Formulators use it to provide subtle pigmentation and antioxidant defence without relying on synthetic colourants or mineral oxides. Its compatibility with emulsions and water-based systems makes it ideal for lightweight daily moisturisers, BB creams and protective hair mists popular in the UK market.
Key benefits
- Provides natural-looking tint and colour
- Helps shield skin from UV radiation
- Delivers antioxidant protection
- Enhances hair shine and depth of colour
- Supports even skin tone appearance
- Suitable for sensitive skin formulations
Best for
sensitive skin, mature skin, dull skin, uneven skin tone
Where it comes from
Phytomelanin is a dark polymeric pigment naturally found in the seed coats of certain plants, most notably in sunflower seeds and various members of the Asteraceae family.