The extract
The Adaptogenic Power of Chaga Extract
Botanical Identity: Inonotus obliquus is commonly known as Chaga. Other trade or context names include Inonotus obliquus fruiting-body powder. Formulate Labs provides the pure INCI material, Inonotus Obliquus Extract, not proprietary supplier SKUs.
Dual mechanism: Inonotus Obliquus Extract helps defend skin against "inflammaging" and environmental oxidative stress through its rich composition of polyphenols, superoxide dismutase (SOD), triterpenes, and melanin, which neutralize damaging reactive oxygen species (ROS). It supports skin homeostasis by downregulating pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α) to mitigate signs of irritation and cellular damage. Furthermore, it acts as a topical neuro-cosmetic, helping to reduce the visible effects of stress by limiting cortisol production, and preserves structural integrity by suppressing MMP-1, protecting type I collagen.
Use levels: This 5% hydroglycerin stock is typically incorporated into leave-on applications at a concentration of 1.0% to 5.0%.
Market context: The INCI material, Inonotus Obliquus Extract, is found in several major supplier actives. Examples include the Inolixir™ (BASF) class, positioned as adaptogenic "spa treatments" for sensitive skin to fortify the skin barrier, reduce visible redness, and manage stress-induced cortisol response. The SHINE+ Chaga Extract (Uniproma) class highlights supramolecular extraction technology for high free-radical scavenging capacity and photoaging protection. The SpecPure® IO (Spec-Chem) class leverages the "King of Medicinal Mushrooms" narrative, addressing environmental stress and uneven pigmentation through components like betulinic acid and natural melanin.
Pricing context: Public B2B pricing for cosmetic-grade Inonotus Obliquus Extract is fragmented. Generic bulk mushroom peptides may be around $35/kg, while highly purified, clinically substantiated liquid extracts can exceed $1,000/kg. Formulate Labs' typical pricing for this material, as a 5% hydroglycerin stock, is $312.00 for a 500 g sample, $480.00 for 1 kg, and $6,936.00 for 17 kg (equating to $408.00/kg).
We ship a fixed 5% extract blend with selectable preservation - ready to meter into water-phase formulas at the use rates in the formulation guide below.*
Aqueous
Water-phase compatible