Saw Palmetto Extract

Saw Palmetto Extract (INCI: Serenoa Serrulata Fruit Extract)

Saw palmetto is a plant extract known for its DHT-blocking properties. DHT (dihydrotestosterone) is a hormone associated with hair thinning, receding hairlines, and androgen-related hair loss.

Benefits for Hair

1. Natural DHT Blocker – helps reduce the conversion of testosterone to DHT, supports reduced hair fall and stronger follicles. Common in anti-hair-loss serums and tonics.

2. Supports Hair Regrowth – maintains healthy follicle function; works best with caffeine, rosemary extract, niacinamide, peptides, or pumpkin seed oil.

3. Reduces Scalp Inflammation – soothes irritation, especially around weakened follicles.

4. Strengthens Roots – improves nutrient supply around the follicle base.

Benefits for Skin

• Helps reduce excess sebum

• Useful in acne-prone or oily-skin formulations

• Anti-inflammatory

Typical Usage Rate: 1–5%

Formulation Tips

• Add liquid extract during the cool-down phase (<40°C)

• Works well with caffeine, niacinamide, hydrolyzed proteins, panthenol, flaxseed oil, pumpkin seed oil, aloe vera, peppermint or rosemary oil (low %)

Best For

• Hair-loss and thinning-hair formulas

• Scalp serums

• Anti-dandruff and anti-inflammatory scalp treatments

• Men’s and women’s hair-growth products

Example Product: Hair Growth Scalp Tonic (Leave-In)

• pH: 5.0–5.5

• Texture: Watery, fast absorbing

• Use: Once or twice daily on the scalp

Ingredients (100%)

Phase A – Water Phase

• Distilled Water – 72%

• Aloe Vera Juice – 10%

• Panthenol (Vitamin B5) – 2%

• Niacinamide – 2%

• Glycerin – 3%

Phase B – Actives

• Saw Palmetto Extract (liquid, water-soluble) – 3%

• Caffeine – 0.4%

• Hydrolyzed Rice / Keratin / Oat Protein – 2%

• Biotin – 0.1% (optional)

• Green Tea Extract – 2%

Phase C – Essential Additives

• Preservative (e.g., Liquid Germal Plus) – 0.5%

• Menthol or Peppermint Essential Oil – 0.3% (optional, cooling, improves scalp circulation)

• Citric Acid Solution (10%) – q.s. to adjust pH to 5–5.5

Method

1. Prepare Phase A – add water, aloe vera, glycerin, niacinamide, and panthenol. Mix until dissolved.

2. Add Phase B (cool-down actives) – add saw palmetto extract, caffeine (slightly warm, <40°C), hydrolyzed protein, green tea extract, and biotin (if using).

3. Add Preservative + Fragrance (optional) – mix preservative and peppermint oil or menthol.

4. Adjust pH – use citric acid solution to reach pH 5.0–5.5.

5. Bottle – store in a spray or scalp-dropper bottle.

How to Use

• Apply directly to the scalp once or twice daily

• Do not rinse

• Massage for 1–2 minutes to stimulate blood circulation

• Safe for relaxed, natural, braided, loc’d, and protective styles