Purslane Extract

Portulaca oleracea, commonly known as purslane, is an edible succulent consumed as a leafy vegetable in several cuisines and has a documented history of traditional use for skin concerns. More recently, it has been widely used in Korean skincare as a soothing ingredient with a role similar to Centella, but with a different composition of active compounds.

Purslane is unusually rich in omega-3 fatty acids for a leafy plant, along with vitamins A, C and E and several flavonoid antioxidants. This profile gives it combined soothing and antioxidant activity. Research suggests the extract can support the barrier's lipid content and help calm inflammatory markers. Its action overlaps partly with Centella Asiatica, but the two ingredients are not identical.

For reactive, redness-prone skin, especially as an alternative or complement to Centella products, and for dry or barrier-stressed skin that can benefit from omega-3 fatty acids.

Purslane and Centella Asiatica are often marketed as interchangeable soothing ingredients. Their effects overlap, but their active compounds do not belong to the same chemical family. If one does not work well for your skin, the other is a genuinely different option to try.