Common Name(s): Coleus forskohlii root oil,coleus forskohlii extract,forskolin camp activator,melanogenesis modulator

CAS Number: N/a

DESCRIPTION

What It Does: Activates adenylyl cyclase directly (bypassing receptor) to elevate camp providing anti-cellulite lipolysis, modulates mitf-mediated melanogenesis for tone correction, and provides anti-inflammatory activity from pde inhibition reducing inflammatory mediators.

Why It's Used: Forskolin's unique direct adenylyl cyclase activation bypasses receptor desensitisation — providing sustained camp elevation that receptor-mediated approaches cannot maintain, supporting genuine long-duration anti-cellulite and tone-modulating activity.

How It Works: Forskolin binds the catalytic c1/c2 subunit interface of adenylyl cyclase directly activating camp synthesis. elevated camp → pka → creb phosphorylation → mitf transcription modulation (dose-dependent melanogenesis regulation); simultaneously → hormone-sensitive lipase activation → adipocyte lipolysis (anti-cellulite). direct ac activation is synergistic with receptor-mediated pathways.

Typically Found In: Anti-cellulite,tone modulating,anti-aging

TECHNICAL DETAILS

Primary Category: Active ingredient – antioxidant

Secondary Functions: Free radical scavenging,anti-aging

Application Areas:

Typical Concentration Range: 0.1%–3%

SOURCING & ETHICS

Vegan Status: Yes

Halal Status: Yes

Source Notes: Plant-derived extract or synthetic.

SKIN COMPATIBILITY

Irritancy Rating: 1/5 – very low

Comedogenicity Rating: 0/5 – non-comedogenic

Sensitivity Concerns: Non-irritating; well-tolerated.

Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes

SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY

Safety Profile: Excellent safety profile. ewg score: 1.

Works Well With: Vitamin c,vitamin e,ferulic acid,spf,other antioxidants

Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities

SCIENTIFIC NOTE

Forskolin concentration is critical for tone effects: at low concentration (ec50 for ac activation ~0.5 um) camp elevation suppresses melanogenesis; at high concentration, excessive mitf activation can stimulate melanogenesis — the dose-dependent bimodal response requires formulation optimisation.

Last Verified: 2026-03-22

Primary Sources: Cosing database,coleus forskohlii forskolin camp adenylyl cyclase review