Houttuynia Cordata Extract
Also known as: Heartleaf
Heartleaf (INCI: Houttuynia Cordata Extract) is an active ingredient — heartleaf extract — anti-inflammatory and soothing. It's found in 52 products in our database, making it one of the most common ingredients.
What it does
Heartleaf extract — anti-inflammatory and soothing
Heartleaf — the common name for Houttuynia cordata — is a calming botanical extract that became the defining K-beauty ingredient of the 2020s. Anua's Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner alone has over 580 million views on TikTok and helped normalise heartleaf-forward routines for reactive skin types. The plant is native to East Asia and has been used in Korean traditional medicine for centuries. The extract is rich in quercitrin, isoquercitrin, and afzelin — flavonoids that have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. In clinical testing, heartleaf extract reduces the histamine response in irritated skin and strengthens the barrier against trans-epidermal water loss. It's well tolerated across skin types but is particularly suited to over-exfoliated, acne-prone, or rosacea-adjacent skin. Look for heartleaf concentrations in the 30–80% range (K-beauty brands often disclose percentages on the front of the bottle). It layers well with niacinamide and panthenol for a full calming stack.
Who it's best for
People with specific skin concerns looking for targeted treatment.
- Those dealing with acne, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, or uneven texture
- Anyone ready to build an active-focused routine (start slowly)
- Skin that has already adapted to a basic hydration routine
Works well with
- +Draws in moisture(humectant)
- +Softens and smooths(emollient)
- +UV protection(sunscreen)
Use caution with
- !Works on your skin(active)Layering multiple actives can increase irritation — introduce one at a time and monitor your skin's response.
52 products
Works on your skin
Best products with Heartleaf
Serums
See all serums→Masks
See all masks→exfoliant
See all exfoliant→SPF products
See all spf products→Cleansers
See all cleansers→Top products with Houttuynia Cordata Extract
Reset to Balance Mode Kit - Routine Set for Oily Skin and Pore + Shine Control
Overnight Barrier Hydrating Bio-Collagen Recovery Mask
Balance Mode Pore Polishing Peel-Off Face Mask with Salicylic Acid to Control Shine & Smooth Texture
Cicapair ™ Tiger Grass Camo Drops Color Corrector SPF 35
Silk Peptide EGF Heart Fit Volume Lifting Ampoule
The Giving Essence Brightening & Hydrating Treatment with Niacinimide
Pore Melt Non-Comedogenic Double Cleansing Duo Gift Set for Acne-Prone Skin
Benefiance Eye Cream Set
Skinpower Eye Cream
Skinpower Airy Milky Lotion
The Texture Tonic AHA Liquid Exfoliating Treatment
Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel SPF 50+
Heartleaf 80% Soothing Ampoule
Niacinamide 10% + TXA 4% Dark Spot Correcting Serum
PDRN Lifting Pad
Waterfull Tone-Up Sun Cream
Cicapair Sleepair Ampoule-in Mask
Heartleaf Quercetinol Pore Tightening Serum
Collagen Gel Mask
SKINPOWER Essence Serum
Frequently asked questions
What does Heartleaf do in skincare?
Heartleaf extract — anti-inflammatory and soothing
Is Heartleaf safe for sensitive skin?
Heartleaf is generally well-tolerated and has no specific concern flags in our database. As with any ingredient, patch-test if you have highly reactive skin.
What products contain Heartleaf?
52 products in our database contain Heartleaf. The highest-rated is LANEIGE Reset to Balance Mode Kit - Routine Set for Oily Skin and Pore + Shine Control scoring 9.5/9.8.
Can I use Heartleaf every day?
Many actives are best introduced gradually — start with 2-3 times per week and increase as your skin adapts. Strong actives like retinoids are often best used at night.