Shikimic acid is a plant-derived organic acid (originally isolated from star anise) used in skincare for mild exfoliation, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, and as an adjunct in acne and pigmentation formulations. It is milder and better tolerated than many alpha-hydroxy acids.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Mild transient stinging or tingling | Uncommon | Usually brief and occurs on application, especially at higher concentrations. |
Skin dryness or mild irritation | Uncommon | Can occur with frequent use or on sensitive skin. |
Erythema (redness) | Rare | Typically mild and self-limiting. |
Allergic contact dermatitis | Very rare | Isolated hypersensitivity reactions possible in predisposed individuals. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.