Rhubarb
Rhubarb extract is a gentle, natural ingredient derived from the stalks of the rhubarb plant. It is valued in UK skincare and haircare for its brightening, soothing and mildly exfoliating properties, making it a popular choice in clean beauty formulations.
How it works in skincare
In cosmetics and skincare, rhubarb extract works through a combination of naturally occurring organic acids and polyphenols that gently support the skin’s natural exfoliation process and help to brighten dull complexions. Its antioxidant content helps protect against environmental stressors while the astringent qualities can refine the appearance of pores and balance oily skin. In haircare it is traditionally used to enhance shine and impart subtle golden tones to light hair.
Key benefits
- Helps brighten and even skin tone
- Gently exfoliates for smoother texture
- Provides antioxidant protection
- Soothes and calms sensitive skin
- Balances oily and combination skin
- Adds shine and subtle tone to blonde hair
Best for
dull skin, oily skin, combination skin, sensitive skin, mature skin
Where it comes from
Rhubarb is a perennial plant (Rheum rhabarbarum) native to parts of Asia and widely cultivated in the UK. The extract used in cosmetics is obtained from the fleshy pink stalks, which are rich in organic acids, polyphenols and vitamins.
Products with Rhubarb
Not every product on UK Lips lists a full ingredient breakdown — so there may be many more formulas that contain Rhubarb than we can show here. These are the comparisons where we’ve confirmed it in the listed ingredients.