Innovation by an IPB University Professor: Red Betel Leaf Now Used as a Local Cosmetic Ingredient, The Secret to Brightening Skin

Good news for Indonesia’s beauty industry. Prof Mega Safithri, Professor of Nutritional Biochemistry at IPB University, has just revealed the extraordinary potential of the red betel leaf as a natural skin brightening ingredient.

This discovery is expected to be a major breakthrough in reducing Indonesia’s reliance on imported cosmetic raw materials, which have long dominated the market.

Until now, many skin brightening products have relied on imported chemicals such as hydroquinone or arbutin. However, these ingredients sometimes carry the risk of side effects. Red betel leaf offers a safer and more natural alternative. 

“Scientifically, the bioactive compounds in red betel have been proven to possess remarkable properties namely, powerful antioxidant effects that protect the skin by inhibiting damage to cell membranes,” explained Prof Mega.

Additionally, red betel has been shown to inhibit melanin production by up to 35 percent. Its bioactive compounds act directly on the key enzyme (tyrosinase) that triggers the production of dark pigments, as demonstrated in cellular tests.

For Prof Mega, this discovery is not merely laboratory research, but also a strategic opportunity. With the growing trend toward natural, halal, and eco-beauty concepts, red betel based cosmetics have a very promising market potential.

In addition, this plant is very easy to cultivate, much like an ornamental plant, as long as it is placed in a shaded area (out of direct sunlight).

To obtain its active compounds, Prof Mega explained, 1–2-year-old red betel leaves are first sorted, washed, and dried for about 48 hours before being ground into a powder. The leaf powder is then extracted using 70 percent ethanol to produce an extract rich in bioactive compounds that serve as a natural skin brightening ingredient.

“By harnessing this local potential, Indonesia not only offers safe beauty products that are globally competitive but also strengthens the self-reliance of the national cosmetic raw materials sector,” she said. (dh) (IAAS/DON)