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After 200 million years of this tree species' existence, the popularity of gingko biloba is growing, and it’s growing at a phenomenal rate. It’s no surprise, as gingko has rich traditions steeped in Chinese medicine, and has proven itself for years as a medicinal herb that can help heal various ailments in the human body.
This remarkable Asian tree is one of the oldest plant species on the planet. The extract from its leaves is one of the best selling supplements in both the United States and in Europe. One gingko tree can live as long as 1,000 years, and can grow to a height of more than 120 feet. It can withstand all types of difficult environments, and is highly resistant to disease and insects.
Of particular note lately, however, are the anti-aging effects of gingko biloba on skin. There are many studies underway, and there is such a huge demand for the herb that ginkgo biloba trees are currently being cultivated in order to protect the species. In fact, gingko has earned a reputation as one of the most coveted herbal supplements anywhere.
One of the reasons that gingko biloba is being used in many topical skincare formulations is due to its anti-aging properties. It has long been hailed as a potent anti-inflammatory herb, but it also has been shown to increase the production of human skin collagen.
Laboratory findings involving fibroblasts or bacteria are research leads, not proof that a ginkgo cosmetic keeps skin wrinkle-free or prevents acne. Clinical outcomes depend on the extract, concentration, formulation and the people studied.
But the main reason for gingko biloba’s popularity is its antioxidant properties, which include polyphenols and flavonoids. Antioxidants work to fight the free radicals that damage the skin’s DNA and mitochondria, causing the skin to sag and fine lines and wrinkles to develop.
Ginkgo extracts contain compounds studied for antioxidant activity. This does not establish that a particular cosmetic restores elasticity lost through aging or UV exposure.
Ginkgo research should not be interpreted as proof that a retail serum treats sunburn. An extract contains many molecules, so its name alone also cannot establish skin penetration. Use gentle sunburn care for UV injury and evaluate a finished formula on its own evidence.
Claims that ginkgo delivers oxygen to skin or repairs UV damage require evidence from the specific product and use being discussed. Botanical antioxidant activity alone does not demonstrate those clinical outcomes.
Gingko works as a vasodilator, opening the blood vessels so blood and oxygen can move more freely among the body’s cells. It has a high level of quercetin, which is a common and quite potent antioxidant.
Ginkgo contains compounds investigated for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Those mechanisms do not establish treatment of eczema, acne or every inflammatory skin condition by an ordinary cosmetic.
In addition to being a vasodilator, gingko also improves the skin’s sebaceous secretions, improves tissue irrigation, and stimulates cell metabolism. It is also known to be an effective, natural cleanser, working to clear the skin of oil, dirt, environmental impurities, and cellular debris.
Ginkgo and green tea extract can appear together in a cosmetic. That pairing alone does not establish greater potency or clinical synergy than either ingredient in a different formula. The tested preparation and measured outcome matter.
Use the green tea combination guide to evaluate ingredient roles without assigning a whole formula's result to one botanical. For an eye-area combination, the Green Tea + Vitamin K discussion distinguishes the ingredient list from finished-product evidence.
So much has been written about the impact of gingko biloba and many research studies are underway to explore its bilities. One study found that gingko extracts helped protect skin cell membranes from the damage of oxidative stress caused by free radicals. The extract accomplished this by scavenging fat radicals, along with scavenging nitric oxide, and hydroxyl and oxoferryl radicals.
There is some debate on whether the benefits of gingko biloba are best derived from ingesting the extract or using it in topical formulations. The problem with ingesting ginkgo, as with any extract that is destined for skin cell benefits, is that the body metabolizes most of the extract before it ever reaches the skin.
In fact, studies have shown that when taken orally, only 1% to 3% of any extract reaches the epidermal layer where it’s needed to work its magic. Topical application, on the other hand, puts the extract exactly where it’s needed to do the most good.
That’s why there are now many different skincare and cosmetic formulations that incorporate gingko. When used as directed, the benefits of gingko biloba for skin are many and helpful.
Use the facial sunscreen guide to choose broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and apply it properly. FDA guidance explains why tested sunscreen claims, protective clothing and correct use matter; ingredient or nutrition research is not an SPF rating.
Content updated October 8, 2026.
