At ORY®, we believe you should know what’s in your products and why. This page lists the published research behind what we say about pomegranate extract. Each section starts with our claim, then tells you how well the research supports it, then lists the sources so you can read them yourself.
How to read this page Supported — backed by peer-reviewed research or official safety reviews. Supported, with caveats — the research points this way, but mostly from laboratory or animal studies, or at different strengths than ORY® uses. Limited evidence — little or no published research yet. We say so openly. |
1. General Description and Role
Claim: Pomegranate extract comes from the fruit of Punica granatum and is rich in punicalagins, ellagic acid, and anthocyanins. In ORY® products, it provides antioxidant support and helps skin look firm and radiant. |
Verification: Supported, with caveats. In human skin cells, pomegranate fractions supported collagen production and reduced an enzyme that breaks down collagen. We found no human trials of topical pomegranate extract in cosmetics.
Citations:
- Aslam, M. N., Lansky, E. P., & Varani, J. (2006). Pomegranate as a cosmeceutical source: Pomegranate fractions promote proliferation and procollagen synthesis and inhibit matrix metalloproteinase-1 production in human skin cells. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 103(3), 311–318. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874105005271
- What it shows: Lab study of pomegranate fractions in human skin cells.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review. (2020). Safety assessment of Punica granatum (pomegranate)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics (final report). https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/pomegr062020FR.pdf
- What it shows: CIR safety assessment of pomegranate ingredients.
- Aslam, M. N., Lansky, E. P., & Varani, J. (2006). Pomegranate as a cosmeceutical source: Pomegranate fractions promote proliferation and procollagen synthesis and inhibit matrix metalloproteinase-1 production in human skin cells. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 103(3), 311–318. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874105005271
2. Composition and Production
Claim: Pomegranate extract is made from the fruit or its rind with water or water and alcohol. Pomegranate seed oil and juice are separate ingredients. |
Verification: Supported. Pomegranate chemistry is well documented.
Citations:
- Aslam, M. N., Lansky, E. P., & Varani, J. (2006). Pomegranate as a cosmeceutical source: Pomegranate fractions promote proliferation and procollagen synthesis and inhibit matrix metalloproteinase-1 production in human skin cells. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 103(3), 311–318. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874105005271
- What it shows: Describes pomegranate fractions.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review. (2020). Safety assessment of Punica granatum (pomegranate)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics (final report). https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/pomegr062020FR.pdf
- What it shows: Lists pomegranate cosmetic ingredients.
- Aslam, M. N., Lansky, E. P., & Varani, J. (2006). Pomegranate as a cosmeceutical source: Pomegranate fractions promote proliferation and procollagen synthesis and inhibit matrix metalloproteinase-1 production in human skin cells. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 103(3), 311–318. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874105005271
3. Skin Type Suitability
Claim: Pomegranate extract suits all skin types. |
Verification: Supported. The CIR Expert Panel concluded that pomegranate fruit extract, pericarp extract, juice, and seed ingredients are safe in cosmetics at reported use levels, when formulated so they do not cause skin lightening (depigmentation). We found no cosmetic clinical studies by skin type.
Citations:
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review. (2020). Safety assessment of Punica granatum (pomegranate)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics (final report). https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/pomegr062020FR.pdf
- What it shows: CIR safety conclusion.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review. (2020). Safety assessment of Punica granatum (pomegranate)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics (final report). https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/pomegr062020FR.pdf
4. Hair and Scalp Suitability
Claim: In haircare, pomegranate extract provides antioxidant support. |
Verification: Limited evidence. We found no clinical studies of pomegranate on hair or scalp. ORY® haircare products are not sunscreens and are not intended to protect skin or scalp from the sun or to grow hair.
Citations:
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review. (2020). Safety assessment of Punica granatum (pomegranate)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics (final report). https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/pomegr062020FR.pdf
- What it shows: Reported hair-care uses.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review. (2020). Safety assessment of Punica granatum (pomegranate)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics (final report). https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/pomegr062020FR.pdf
5. Benefits
Claim: Pomegranate extract provides antioxidant support and helps skin look firmer and more radiant. |
Verification: Supported, with caveats. Lab studies support antioxidant and collagen-supporting effects. A randomized trial found that drinking pomegranate juice or taking extract by mouth increased resistance to sunburn, but that was not a topical study. ORY® pomegranate products are not sunscreens and do not claim sun protection.
Citations:
- Aslam, M. N., Lansky, E. P., & Varani, J. (2006). Pomegranate as a cosmeceutical source: Pomegranate fractions promote proliferation and procollagen synthesis and inhibit matrix metalloproteinase-1 production in human skin cells. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 103(3), 311–318. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874105005271
- What it shows: Lab evidence in skin cells.
- Henning, S. M., et al. (2019). Pomegranate juice and extract consumption increases the resistance to UVB-induced erythema and changes the skin microbiome in healthy women: A randomized controlled trial. Scientific Reports, 9, 14528. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31601842/
- What it shows: Oral (not topical) trial.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2019, February 26). Sunscreen drug products for over-the-counter human use (proposed rule), 84 FR 6204. https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2019/02/26/2019-03019/sunscreen-drug-products-for-over-the-counter-human-use
- What it shows: FDA regulates sun-protection claims as sunscreen drugs.
- Aslam, M. N., Lansky, E. P., & Varani, J. (2006). Pomegranate as a cosmeceutical source: Pomegranate fractions promote proliferation and procollagen synthesis and inhibit matrix metalloproteinase-1 production in human skin cells. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 103(3), 311–318. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874105005271
6. Use Across ORY® Product Lines
Claim: Pomegranate extract is used in all four ORY® product lines at low levels. |
Verification: Supported, with caveats. ORY® uses only the pomegranate ingredients CIR found safe, at or below the concentrations CIR reviewed (the highest reported use for fruit extract was 0.1%). CIR found the data insufficient for peel extract and for “Punica Granatum Extract,” so ORY® does not use them. Pomegranate is added for its antioxidant benefit, not for color; pomegranate juice and anthocyanins are not FDA-approved color additives for cosmetics.
| Product line | Typical level | How ORY® uses it |
| Skincare | Up to 0.1% fruit extract | Serums, day creams, eye creams, masks, and after-sun products. |
| Haircare | Up to 0.1% fruit extract | Shampoos, conditioners, and scalp serums. |
| Handmade Soap | Fruit extract or juice at CIR-reviewed levels | Added at trace; the color turns brown. |
| Cosmetics | Up to 0.1% fruit extract | Foundations, primers, lip balms, and setting sprays. |
Citations:
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review. (2020). Safety assessment of Punica granatum (pomegranate)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics (final report). https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/pomegr062020FR.pdf
- What it shows: CIR conclusions and reported use levels.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Color Additives and Cosmetics: Fact Sheet; 21 CFR 70.3(g) and Part 73, Subpart C (color additives permitted in cosmetics). https://www.fda.gov/industry/color-additives/color-additives-and-cosmetics-fact-sheet
- What it shows: FDA color additive rules.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Is It a Cosmetic, a Drug, or Both? (Or Is It Soap?) https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetics-laws-regulations/it-cosmetic-drug-or-both-or-it-soap
- What it shows: FDA explains how soap is regulated.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review. (2020). Safety assessment of Punica granatum (pomegranate)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics (final report). https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/pomegr062020FR.pdf
7. Pros
Claim: A rich source of antioxidants with a CIR safety conclusion. |
Verification: Supported, with caveats. Evidence is mainly from lab studies.
Citations:
- Aslam, M. N., Lansky, E. P., & Varani, J. (2006). Pomegranate as a cosmeceutical source: Pomegranate fractions promote proliferation and procollagen synthesis and inhibit matrix metalloproteinase-1 production in human skin cells. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 103(3), 311–318. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874105005271
- What it shows: Lab evidence.
- Aslam, M. N., Lansky, E. P., & Varani, J. (2006). Pomegranate as a cosmeceutical source: Pomegranate fractions promote proliferation and procollagen synthesis and inhibit matrix metalloproteinase-1 production in human skin cells. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 103(3), 311–318. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874105005271
8. Cons
Claim: Topical human evidence is limited, some pomegranate ingredients lack safety data, and extracts can stain or brown. |
Verification: Supported. We list these limits so you have the full picture:
- Limited topical evidence. The best human trial was oral.
- Data gaps. CIR found insufficient data for peel extract.
- Color. Extracts can darken over time and stain fabric.
- Low use levels. Safety data support only low concentrations.
Citations:
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review. (2020). Safety assessment of Punica granatum (pomegranate)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics (final report). https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/pomegr062020FR.pdf
- What it shows: Data gaps and use levels.
- Henning, S. M., et al. (2019). Pomegranate juice and extract consumption increases the resistance to UVB-induced erythema and changes the skin microbiome in healthy women: A randomized controlled trial. Scientific Reports, 9, 14528. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31601842/
- What it shows: Oral trial.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review. (2020). Safety assessment of Punica granatum (pomegranate)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics (final report). https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/pomegr062020FR.pdf
9. Safety Notes
Claim: Patch test before use; for external use only. |
Verification: Supported. Follow these precautions:
- Patch test any new product on a small area for 24–48 hours before full use.
- Stop use if redness, burning, itching, or rash occurs, and talk to a healthcare provider.
- For external use only. Avoid the eyes. Do not use on broken or seriously damaged skin.
- If you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, or are buying for a child, ask a healthcare provider before use.
Citations:
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review. (2020). Safety assessment of Punica granatum (pomegranate)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics (final report). https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/pomegr062020FR.pdf
- What it shows: Safety assessment.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review. (2020). Safety assessment of Punica granatum (pomegranate)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics (final report). https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/pomegr062020FR.pdf
10. Product-line notes
- ORY® Skincare: For external use only. Not for deep or puncture wounds, animal bites, or serious burns.
- ORY® Haircare: Designed for scalp comfort and the look and feel of hair. Not intended to treat dandruff or scalp conditions, or to promote hair growth or prevent hair loss. If you notice sudden shedding or a persistent itchy, flaking scalp, see a dermatologist.
- ORY® Handmade Soap: Handmade soap is naturally alkaline, and each bar may vary slightly in color, scent, and texture. Not intended to treat eczema or any skin condition.
- ORY® Cosmetics: Lip products are not intended to treat or protect chapped or cracked lips. Do not share applicators, and replace any product that changes color, smell, or texture.
11. References
Peer-reviewed research
- Aslam, M. N., Lansky, E. P., & Varani, J. (2006). Pomegranate as a cosmeceutical source: Pomegranate fractions promote proliferation and procollagen synthesis and inhibit matrix metalloproteinase-1 production in human skin cells. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 103(3), 311–318. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874105005271
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review. (2020). Safety assessment of Punica granatum (pomegranate)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics (final report). https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/pomegr062020FR.pdf
- Henning, S. M., et al. (2019). Pomegranate juice and extract consumption increases the resistance to UVB-induced erythema and changes the skin microbiome in healthy women: A randomized controlled trial. Scientific Reports, 9, 14528. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31601842/
Government and regulatory sources
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2019, February 26). Sunscreen drug products for over-the-counter human use (proposed rule), 84 FR 6204. https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2019/02/26/2019-03019/sunscreen-drug-products-for-over-the-counter-human-use
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Color Additives and Cosmetics: Fact Sheet; 21 CFR 70.3(g) and Part 73, Subpart C (color additives permitted in cosmetics). https://www.fda.gov/industry/color-additives/color-additives-and-cosmetics-fact-sheet
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Is It a Cosmetic, a Drug, or Both? (Or Is It Soap?) https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetics-laws-regulations/it-cosmetic-drug-or-both-or-it-soap
