Quillaia Saponaria Wood Extract is an extract from the wood or bark of the soapbark tree, Quillaja saponaria, a tree native to Chile and parts of South America.
What is it used for?
Its main active compounds are saponins. These are naturally occurring molecules that can produce foam and have cleansing and emulsifying properties.
In cosmetics and personal care, Quillaia extract can be used as:
- Natural foaming agent – saponins create foam when mixed with water.
- Gentle cleansing agent – can help lift oils and dirt from skin or hair.
- Surfactant alternative – sometimes used in natural or botanical cleansing formulations.
- Emulsifying aid – saponins can help stabilise mixtures of oil and water.
- Skin-conditioning ingredient – depending on the extract and formulation.
- Hair-care ingredient – can be used in shampoos and scalp-cleansing products.
How does it compare with soapwort?
Quillaia and soapwort (Saponaria officinalis) are quite similar because both contain saponins:
|
Quillaia |
Soapwort |
|
|
Botanical source |
Quillaja saponaria |
Saponaria officinalis |
|
Main compounds |
Quillaia saponins |
Soapwort saponins |
|
Foaming |
Good |
Good |
|
Cleansing |
Mild-to-moderate |
Mild |
|
Traditional use |
Soap/foaming, food, cosmetics |
Traditional herbal cleansing |
|
Modern cosmetic use |
More established |
More niche |
Quillaia vs SLSA, SCI and glucosides
Quillaia is quite different from modern surfactants. Its saponins are naturally occurring plant compounds, whereas SLSA and SCI are manufactured surfactants designed to provide predictable cleansing and foam.
I use it in the latest addition to my skincare range Silk Ceramide Cleansing Melt – Marigold Charms.
Happy beauty
Marion X