The extract
The Science of Slippery Elm: Barrier & Biopolymer Benefits
At Formulate Labs, we present Ulmus Rubra Bark Extract, derived from the inner bark of Ulmus rubra, commonly known as slippery elm. While this botanical is often encountered under trade names like 'Ulmus rubra bark powder' or 'slippery elm' in other industries, we provide a sophisticated, cosmetic-grade INCI material specifically formulated for topical applications, rather than crude supplier SKUs.
Dual mechanism: Ulmus Rubra Bark Extract leverages its rich composition of high-molecular-weight mucilage polysaccharides to form a substantive, viscous hydrogel matrix over the stratum corneum upon topical application. This physical barrier effectively traps moisture, enhancing skin hydration, and simultaneously shields the skin from environmental stressors. Additionally, the extract's tannin and bioflavonoid constituents provide localized antioxidant activity, helping to soothe compromised skin by mitigating the effects of inflammatory cascades.
Use levels: — For Formulate Labs' liquid hydroglycerin or propanediol-based extracts, a typical use level ranges from 1.0% to 5.0% in finished formulations.
Market context: — Competitors predominantly market this botanical for the oral dietary supplement and gut-health sectors, often under crude trade names like 'Slippery Elm Inner Bark 10:1'. Supplier marketing frequently relies on historical apothecary narratives and folklore, emphasizing its traditional demulcent properties for soothing wounds and burns rather than its modern biomolecular functions in cosmetics.
Pricing context: — Public B2B market pricing data for cosmetic-grade, liquid Ulmus Rubra Bark Extract is sparse, with available data predominantly reflecting crude bulk powders for nutraceutical and dietary supplement sectors. Formulate Labs' pricing is structured as $117.00 for a 500 g sample, $180.00 for 1 kg, and $2,448.00 for 17 kg (equating to $144.00/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