Hinokitiol — (Beta-Thujaplicin), is an organic compound extracted from the oils of the western red cedar tree. It was discovered in the 1930s by First Nations people, and used for medicinal purposes. Hinokitiol is a superpower ingredient that has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-fungal and anti-melanogenic properties. Best of all, hinokitiol is as gentle as it is powerful. Hinokitiol’s properties allow it to target the inflammatory redness and blemishes seen in rosacea and acne. Hinokitiol is effective against P. acnes bacteria, and there is no known acquired resistance to it, unlike other prescription antibiotics.
Hinokitiol is also an excellent anti-aging ingredient. Because it is an antioxidant, it quenches free radicals from UV rays, pollution and inflammatory processes to limit the skin damage these elements can cause. An in-vitro study using mouse keratinocytes showed that beta-thujaplicin inhibits UVB apoptosis in keratinocytes and strongly suggests that the inhibitory mechanism is due to the antioxidant activity of metallothionein induced by the agent. Metallothionein is a powerful antioxidant that the body produces. Hinokitiol also reduces the formation of pigment by inhibiting the enzyme tyrosinase, making it effective for treating hyperpigmentation.