Purslane Extract is a Hidden Gem in Anti-Aging Skincare

Meet the Expert

• Dr. Kristina Collins, MD, FAAD is a board-certified dermatologist who specializes in Mohs micrographic surgery and surgical and cosmetic dermatology.
• Dr. Rachael Nazarian, MD, FAAD is a board-Certified Dermatologist based at New York's Schweiger Dermatology Group.
• Dr. Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist serving patients throughout Manhattan.

So, what exactly is purslane extract? We asked dermatologists Dr. Rachael Nazarian, MD, FAAD, Dr. Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, and Collins to share what they know about this antioxidant, and what it can potentially do for the skin.

Read on for what they had to say.

Purslane Extract

Type of ingredient: Antioxidant

Main benefits: Anti-aging, calms skin, reduces redness, helps skin retain moisture.

Who should use it: In general, purslane has a wide range of benefits and can be used by everyone, including those with sensitive skin.

How often can you use it: Purslane extract is safe to use up to twice a day, morning and night.

Works well with: Because purslane extract is considered gentle, soothing, and provides antioxidant benefits, it can be used with almost any product. Purslane extract works particularly well with other antioxidants such as vitamin C, niacinamide, and other hydrating ingredients.

Don’t use with: Purslane extract does not interact with other ingredients and generally can be used safely within all skincare routines.

What Is Purslane Extract?

Purslane extract is an extract of the purslane plant (a succulent) that is known to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-aging, and hydrating benefits. It is packed with vitamins and fatty acids including various dietary minerals, omega-3, omega-6 fatty acids, and ascorbic acid. It is included in many anti- aging and calming creams because of the benefits it brings to the skin—it works by calming the skin, boosting healing properties, and neutralizing free-radical damage from environmental stressors.

“The extract has been long used in traditional Eastern medicine for wounds, bites, and stings due to the anti-inflammatory properties,” says Collins. You’ll find purslane extract in a variety of products including topical creams and serums, most often in wound healing and anti-aging products because of its protective and anti-inflammatory characteristics. “It’s great for irritated, dry, or inflamed and injured skin,” says Nazarian. “It tackles many skincare concerns, mostly due to the wide variety of different components of the plant, both calming and protective in nature.”

How To Use It

Purslane extract can be incorporated into nearly all skincare products, according to Garshick—from moisturizers and cleansers to creams and serums. It is important to follow the specific instructions of the product in use. For example, if the extract is found in a serum, it should be used after cleansing, but if it’s found in a moisturizer, it should be used after a serum.

The Best Products With Purslane Extract

Garshick recommends this lightweight, ultra-hydrating moisturizer. The Portulaca oleracea extract serves as an antioxidant and offers skin-soothing benefits. It also contains peptides and humectants, leaving the skin looking “healthy and refreshed." Signs of aging and damage appear reduced while the skin feels instantly rejuvenated with hydration that lasts.

Nazarian shares that the anti-pollution drops combine purslane with hyaluronic acid to “protect against daily aging and keep skin hydrated." These small but mighty drops are formulated to protect your complexion from particulate pollution and the often overlooked danger of blue light from our electronic screens.

With more than 400 five-star reviews, it’s no wonder Collins recommends this cream. The deeply moisturizing cream is supercharged with the brand's 5-Cera Complex to strengthen the skin barrier and shield from water and moisture loss.

For improvement of skin tone and texture, Garshick recommends this serum. The product “effectively tightens and minimizes the look of sagging pores and rough bumps” caused by age or sun damage.

“The combination of kelp and purslane doubles the antioxidant-packed nature to protect the skin,” says Nazarian of this serum. “It improves healing and boosts natural collagen levels.”

This face cream — formulated for those with dry skin — is made with purslane and several potent antioxidants, so ti easily absorbs into the skin and gets to work soothing and calming (even tightening) wherever it's applied.

Due to its wide range of benefits, purslane extract can be used by myraid skin types, including sensitive skin.

Purslane is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help hydrate the skin, making it especially helpful for those who may experience dryness.

The anti-inflammatory properties of purslane extract mean it could help those with acne-prone skin.

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