The ingredient, explained

Tannic Acid

Research examined TANNIC ACID under the stated study conditions.

AstringentMasking

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Ingredient guide

What it is and what it does

Tannins. Gallic acid derivatives found in nutgalls, bark and other plant parts, especially oak bark

About this ingredient: EU CosIng ingredient registry (via Open Beauty Facts taxonomy) ↗

Astringent: A technical role associated with tightening the skin surface.
Masking: Reduces or conceals the formula's underlying odour or taste.

Function definitions: European Commission ingredient function definitions (SCCNFP/0299/00, pages 16 to 20) ↗

Registry functions describe possible formulation roles, not results for a finished product. A dictionary entry is not an approval or a safety assessment.

A closer look

What the research shows

Human topical treatment study

The tannic-acid and salicylic-acid treatment reduced herpes lesion size relative to placebo.

What this does not tell us

26 participants and five-day observation. Salicylic acid is co-active, and medical herpes results do not establish tannic-acid-only or general cosmetic benefit.

Sources for this summary. PubMed 1923396 ↗

Research review checked Oct 1, 2026

Read exact local candidate abstracts first; select identity-relevant papers; targeted primary PubMed/publisher searches. This is not an exhaustive systematic review.