Cacao en poudre (Cocoa Powder)

Cocoa powder is obtained from the dried and defatted seeds of Theobroma cacao, processed after fermentation and roasting to remove most of the cocoa butter, leaving a fine, dark brown powder rich in polyphenols, methylxanthines (theobromine and caffeine), and flavonoids. In cosmetics, it is prized for its natural warm brown colorant properties in makeup and rinse-off products, as well as its potent antioxidant activity attributed to its high flavonoid content, which helps neutralize free radicals and support skin resilience. Formulators are drawn to unsweetened cocoa powder for its characteristic indulgent scent, its mild astringent effect from tannins, and its appeal in natural and 'food-inspired' formulations such as masks, scrubs, and lip products.