Explained: Supply Beer Hops Extract Standards, Composition, and Industrial Use

Types of Beer Hops Extract

Beer hops extract is a concentrated form of the essential compounds found in hops, used extensively in brewing to enhance bitterness, aroma, and flavor. These extracts are derived through various methods that isolate key components like alpha acids, essential oils, and beta acids, offering brewers greater consistency, efficiency, and control over the final product. Below is a detailed breakdown of the most common types of hops extract used in modern brewing and related industries.

Hop Oil Extract

Rich in volatile essential oils, this extract captures the aromatic profile of hops with high potency and purity.

Advantages

• Intense hop aroma (floral, citrus, pine notes)
• No vegetative matter in final beer
• Precise dosing for consistent flavor profiles
• Also used in cosmetics and wellness products

Limitations

• Primarily for aroma, not bittering
• Volatile oils can degrade if not stored properly
• Higher cost compared to whole hops

Best for: Dry hopping, aroma enhancement, craft beers with bold hop character

CO2 Hop Extract

Produced using supercritical carbon dioxide extraction, this method yields a clean, highly concentrated extract rich in both essential oils and alpha acids.

Advantages

• Exceptional purity and concentration
• Environmentally friendly (CO2 is recyclable)
• Selective extraction preserves key compounds
• Free from waxes, fats, and chlorophyll

Limitations

• Requires specialized extraction equipment
• Higher initial production cost
• May lack some subtle flavor nuances of whole hops

Best for: Large-scale brewing, bitterness and aroma control, premium lagers and IPAs

Liquid Hop Extract

A solution of concentrated hop compounds (oils and acids) dissolved in alcohol or alcohol-water mixtures, ideal for consistent and scalable brewing operations.

Advantages

• Easy to measure and dispense
• Long shelf life when stored properly
• High batch-to-batch consistency
• Reduces clogging in automated brewing systems

Limitations

• Contains solvents (alcohol), which may affect flavor at high doses
• Less "natural" perception among craft beer purists
• Requires careful handling due to flammability

Best for: Commercial breweries, automated systems, consistent flavor profiling

Hop Powder Extract

Finely ground hops processed into a concentrated powder, rich in alpha acids and often further refined into iso-alpha acid forms.

Advantages

• High alpha acid content for strong bittering
• Compact and easy to store
• Versatile—used in brewing, food flavoring, and preservation
• Can be converted to stable ISO forms for consistent bitterness

Limitations

• Potential for oxidation if not sealed properly
• May require additional processing for optimal solubility
• Less aromatic than oil-based extracts

Best for: Bittering in pale ales, lagers, and non-traditional hop-forward styles

Bitter Hop Extract

Highly concentrated in alpha acids, this extract is specifically designed to deliver bitterness without significant aroma or flavor contribution.

Advantages

• Efficient bittering with minimal volume
• Ideal for early boil additions
• Stable and predictable IBU (International Bitterness Units) contribution
• Also used in animal feed and aquaculture for antioxidant benefits

Limitations

• Lacks hop aroma and flavor complexity
• Not suitable for late hopping or dry hopping
• Overuse can lead to harsh bitterness

Best for: Lagers, light beers, and any style where clean bitterness is desired without hop aroma

Expert Tip: When using liquid or CO2 hop extracts, always store them in airtight, light-resistant containers at cool temperatures to preserve their potency and prevent oxidation, which can lead to off-flavors in beer.

Ingredients Used To Make Beer Hops Extract

Hop extract is a concentrated form of the essential compounds found in hops, widely used in modern brewing to enhance bitterness, aroma, and flavor consistency. Understanding the key ingredients involved in its production helps brewers and manufacturers optimize quality, efficiency, and product stability. Below is a detailed breakdown of the primary components used in creating beer hop extract.

1. Humulus Lupulus (The Hop Plant)

Humulus lupulus, commonly known as the hop plant, is the foundational ingredient in all hop-based products. Specifically, the female hop cones (also called flowers) are harvested for extraction due to their rich concentration of lupulin glands—tiny, yellowish resinous structures that house the most valuable chemical components of the hop.

These glands contain:

• Alpha Acids: Precursors to bitterness in beer; isomerized during boiling to form iso-alpha acids.
• Beta Acids: Contribute to long-term bitterness and possess antimicrobial properties.
• Essential Oils: Responsible for aromatic profiles such as citrus, pine, floral, or earthy notes.
• Bittering Compounds: Provide balance against the sweetness of malt in beer.

Beyond brewing, hops are recognized for their natural preservative qualities and potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and sedative effects, earning them recognition as a functional botanical or "superfood" in certain wellness circles.

2. Solvents: Ethanol and Supercritical CO₂

To extract the active compounds from hop cones, solvents are employed to separate resins and oils from plant matter. The choice of solvent significantly impacts the purity, potency, and application of the final extract.

Ethanol (Alcohol-Based Extraction)

Ethanol is a widely used solvent in both small-scale and industrial hop extraction due to its effectiveness and food-grade safety. It efficiently dissolves hop resins and aromatic oils, producing a full-spectrum extract rich in flavor and aroma compounds.

This method is particularly favored for aroma-focused extracts used in dry-hopping or late additions in brewing. However, residual ethanol must be carefully removed through evaporation or distillation, especially if the extract is intended for non-alcoholic beverages or strict regulatory markets.

Ethanol is also instrumental in producing isomerized hop pellets (ISO), where it facilitates the conversion of alpha acids into iso-alpha acids—more soluble and immediately bitter forms used in consistent bittering applications.

Supercritical Carbon Dioxide (CO₂)

Supercritical CO₂ extraction involves pressurizing carbon dioxide beyond its critical point, where it exhibits properties of both a liquid and a gas. This state allows CO₂ to penetrate hop cones and selectively dissolve resins and essential oils while leaving behind unwanted plant waxes, fats, and polyphenols.

The result is an exceptionally pure, potent, and clean-tasting hop extract with high concentrations of alpha acids and aromatic oils. This method is preferred in craft brewing and large-scale production for its precision, scalability, and absence of solvent residues.

Additionally, CO₂ is non-toxic, recyclable, and environmentally friendly, making it a sustainable option for premium hop extract manufacturing.

3. Water: Facilitator of Chemical Transformation

While not always a direct solvent, water plays a critical supporting role in specific hop processing techniques:

• Isomerization: During thermal processing, water enables the conversion of alpha acids into iso-alpha acids—the primary source of beer bitterness.
• Acid Hydrolysis: Used in specialized extracts to modify hop compounds for enhanced solubility and stability.
• Rehydration: Prepares dried hop materials for more efficient extraction by restoring moisture content.
• Soluble Component Extraction: In some aqueous methods, water extracts water-soluble polyphenols and proteins that influence mouthfeel and shelf life.

Water-based processes are especially important in producing standardized bittering extracts used in mass-produced beers and ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages.

4. Albumin: A Natural Protein with Functional Benefits

Albumin is a soluble protein naturally present in hop resin that becomes active during the brewing and extraction processes. Though not added externally, it plays several important roles:

• Haze Reduction: Albumin can bind with excess proteins and tannins during boiling and cooling, helping to reduce cloudiness and improve beer clarity.
• Carrier of Aroma Oils: During extraction, albumin may help stabilize and transport volatile aromatic compounds, preserving the sensory profile of the hop.
• Facilitation of Isomerization: In isomerized extracts, albumin can act as a natural catalyst or stabilizer, supporting the transformation of alpha acids into their more soluble iso-forms under heat and pressure.

While albumin is not a primary ingredient per se, its presence underscores the complexity of hop chemistry and the importance of preserving natural components during processing.

Important Note: The quality of hop extract depends heavily on the freshness of the raw hops, the precision of the extraction method, and adherence to food safety standards. Always source ingredients and extracts from reputable suppliers, and follow regulatory guidelines—especially regarding solvent residues and labeling requirements for commercial brewing applications.

Benefits of Beer Hops Extract

Hops extract—derived from the flowers of the Humulus lupulus plant—has become a cornerstone of modern brewing, offering far more than just bitterness. Through advanced extraction techniques, brewers can harness the full spectrum of hops' natural compounds in a concentrated, consistent, and highly effective form. Below are the key benefits of using hops extract in beer production, from enhancing flavor to improving shelf stability.

Antimicrobial Properties

The unique resinous substance in hops, known as lupulin, contains powerful antimicrobial compounds such as alpha and beta acids (e.g., humulone and lupulone). These compounds are particularly effective against gram-positive bacteria like Lactobacillus and Pediococcus, which are common spoilage organisms in beer.

• Creates a selective environment that favors brewer’s yeast (Saccharomyces) while inhibiting unwanted microbial growth
• Helps maintain fermentation purity, especially in open-fermentation or sour beer environments
• Contributes to natural preservation, reducing reliance on artificial preservatives

Scientific Insight: The isomerized alpha acids in boiled wort increase solubility and antimicrobial efficacy, making them more effective at lower concentrations.

Flavor Concentration & Control

Hop extracts offer brewers precise control over flavor and aroma profiles by concentrating essential oils (e.g., myrcene, caryophyllene, humulene) and resins. This allows for consistent, repeatable results without the variability of raw hop cones.

• Delivers intense citrus, pine, floral, and tropical notes with minimal volume, reducing wort absorption and trub formation
• Specialized extracts like hop bittering agents (e.g., isomerized kettle extracts) target bitterness without adding vegetative material
• Aroma extracts preserve volatile oils that are often lost during boiling, enhancing the sensory experience

Brewer’s Advantage: Concentrated extracts reduce the need for large hop charges, saving space and improving efficiency in both small and large-scale brewing operations.

Stability and Batch Consistency

Raw hops are subject to degradation from oxygen, light, and temperature fluctuations, leading to inconsistent alpha acid levels and flavor profiles over time. Hop extracts, however, are processed and stabilized to maintain potency and uniformity.

• Standardized alpha acid content ensures predictable bitterness (IBUs) across batches
• Reduced oxidation and moisture content extend shelf life of the extract itself
• Enables year-round production of signature beers without seasonal hop variability

Quality Assurance: Reputable suppliers provide COA (Certificate of Analysis) for each batch, ensuring traceability and consistency in commercial brewing.

Enhanced Beer Preservation

Beyond flavor and fermentation control, hops extracts significantly improve beer’s shelf life through natural preservative action. The hydrophobic compounds in hops integrate into the beer matrix, creating an environment hostile to spoilage organisms.

• Alpha acids disrupt bacterial cell membranes, inhibiting growth of contaminants
• Helps maintain freshness and flavor integrity during extended storage or distribution
• Reduces risk of skunking and oxidation when combined with proper packaging (e.g., dark bottles, CO₂ purging)

Practical Impact: Beers with higher hop extract content often exhibit longer viable shelf lives—up to 6–12 months—without refrigeration, ideal for export and retail distribution.

Post-Fermentation Applications

One of the most innovative uses of hop extract is in dry hopping and conditioning after primary fermentation. Unlike raw hops, extracts don’t introduce organic matter that can harbor bacteria or cause filtration issues.

• Isomerized extracts can be added during lagering or conditioning to fine-tune bitterness without re-boiling
• Aroma extracts preserve delicate top notes (e.g., passionfruit, citrus zest) that are easily lost in heat
• Facilitates "hop bursting" techniques in finished beers for maximum aromatic impact

Modern Technique: Many craft breweries use post-fermentation hop oil additions to create bold, aromatic IPAs with clean fermentation profiles and extended clarity.

Expert Insight: While hop extracts offer precision and efficiency, they work best when integrated thoughtfully into a brewing process. Combining extracts with whole-cone or pellet hops can yield complex, layered flavor profiles—balancing the consistency of extracts with the nuance of natural hops. Always consider the beer style, fermentation schedule, and desired sensory outcome when selecting extract types.

Additional Considerations

• Sustainability: Extracts reduce the volume of raw hops needed, lowering transportation emissions and waste
• Cost Efficiency: Though initially more expensive, extracts reduce labor, storage, and spoilage costs over time
• Regulatory Compliance: Most hop extracts are GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) and approved for use in organic and natural beer production
• Customization: Brewers can blend different extracts to create proprietary flavor profiles or replicate rare hop varieties
• Foam Stability: Certain hop compounds enhance beer lacing and head retention by interacting with proteins in the wort

Applications and Uses of Beer Hops Extract

Beer hops extract, derived from the flowers of the Humulus lupulus plant, is far more than just a brewing staple. Its rich composition of alpha acids (like humulone), beta acids, essential oils, and polyphenols gives it a wide range of functional properties—bittering, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant—making it highly valuable across multiple industries. This comprehensive guide explores the diverse applications of hops extract in pharmaceuticals, food and beverages, and cosmetics, highlighting its benefits, mechanisms of action, and real-world uses.

Did You Know? Hops have been used for centuries not only in brewing but also in traditional medicine for their calming effects. Modern science is now validating many of these historical uses through clinical research and product development.

Pharmaceutical Applications

Hops extract has gained increasing attention in the pharmaceutical industry due to its bioactive compounds that offer therapeutic benefits. These natural properties make it a promising ingredient in both over-the-counter and prescription medications.

• Sedative and Sleep Aids

  Hop extracts are widely recognized for their sedative and anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects. The compound 2-methyl-3-buten-2-ol and other volatile oils in hops interact with the central nervous system, particularly enhancing GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) activity, which promotes relaxation and sleep. As a result, hop extracts are commonly formulated into herbal sleep supplements, often combined with synergistic herbs like valerian root, passionflower, or chamomile. Clinical studies suggest that hop-based preparations can reduce the time it takes to fall asleep and improve overall sleep quality, especially in cases of mild insomnia or stress-related sleep disturbances.

• Antimicrobial Treatments

  The antimicrobial power of hops lies primarily in its alpha and beta acids, especially humulone and lupulone, which exhibit strong activity against Gram-positive bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus mutans. These properties make hops extract a valuable addition to topical pharmaceuticals, including wound ointments, antiseptic creams, and acne treatments. Because of its natural origin and low risk of bacterial resistance, hop-based antimicrobials are increasingly explored as alternatives or complements to synthetic antibiotics, particularly in dermatological formulations targeting skin infections or oral health products.

• Anti-Inflammatory Products

  Chronic inflammation is a root factor in many diseases, including arthritis and inflammatory bowel conditions. Hop extracts contain prenylated flavonoids such as xanthohumol, which have demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes like COX-2. Topical gels and creams containing hop extract are used to relieve joint pain, swelling, and stiffness associated with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Additionally, oral supplements with standardized hop extracts are being studied for their potential in managing systemic inflammation and related discomfort.

Food and Beverages

While hops are best known for their role in beer production, their utility extends well beyond traditional brewing. The unique flavor profile and functional properties of hop extracts make them a versatile ingredient in modern food and beverage innovation.

• Flavoring and Bittering Agent

  In brewing, hops are essential for balancing the sweetness of malted barley through their bitter alpha acids (e.g., humulone). The bitterness level, measured in International Bitterness Units (IBUs), can be precisely controlled using concentrated hop extracts, allowing brewers to achieve consistent flavor profiles across batches. Beyond bitterness, hops contribute complex aromas—ranging from citrus and floral to pine and earthy—depending on the hop variety. Extracts are especially beneficial in craft brewing, where high-hop styles like IPAs and double IPAs require large quantities of hops; using extracts reduces vegetative material, improves yield, and enhances efficiency without sacrificing flavor.

• Natural Preservative

  One of the lesser-known but critically important roles of hops is their ability to act as a natural preservative. The antimicrobial properties of humulone inhibit spoilage-causing bacteria such as Lactobacillus and Pediococcus, which can lead to souring in beer. This natural protection extends shelf life and maintains flavor stability. Additionally, the antioxidant compounds in hops, particularly xanthohumol, help prevent oxidation, which causes stale, cardboard-like off-flavors. As consumer demand for clean-label, preservative-free products grows, hop extracts are being adopted in non-alcoholic beverages, fermented drinks, and even functional foods as a natural alternative to synthetic preservatives.

• Flavoring in Other Beverages

  Beyond beer, hop extracts are finding their way into a wide range of beverages. Hop-infused spirits like gin and craft vodka use hops for botanical complexity. Hard seltzers and non-alcoholic beers utilize hop extracts to mimic the taste and aroma of traditional beer without alcohol content. In health-focused drinks such as kombucha, functional tonics, and herbal sodas, hops add a distinctive bitter note that enhances depth of flavor while offering potential calming effects. Beverage developers appreciate the precision of hop extracts—allowing for consistent dosing and reduced batch variability—making them ideal for scalable production.

Cosmetics

The cosmetic industry has embraced hop extract for its multifunctional benefits in skincare and haircare. Its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties align perfectly with the growing demand for natural, science-backed ingredients in personal care products.

• Anti-Aging Products

  Hop extract is a powerful ally in the fight against skin aging. Rich in antioxidants, particularly xanthohumol and humulone, it neutralizes free radicals generated by UV exposure and pollution, which are major contributors to premature aging. These compounds also support collagen synthesis and inhibit matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), enzymes that break down skin structure. As a result, hop extract is increasingly found in anti-aging serums, moisturizers, and eye creams designed to reduce fine lines, improve skin elasticity, and promote a more youthful complexion.

• Soothing and Anti-Irritation

  For individuals with sensitive, acne-prone, or inflamed skin, hop extract offers a calming effect. Its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce redness, swelling, and irritation, making it suitable for formulations targeting conditions like rosacea, eczema, and post-procedure skin recovery. Combined with its ability to suppress acne-causing bacteria like Propionibacterium acnes, hop extract is a key ingredient in acne treatments, facial toners, and clarifying masks. Its gentle yet effective profile makes it ideal for use in products designed for reactive or compromised skin barriers.

• Hair Care Products

  Hop extract is gaining popularity in shampoos, conditioners, and scalp treatments for its ability to support a healthy scalp environment. It helps regulate sebum production, reduce dandruff, and soothe itchiness and flaking. Some studies suggest that hop compounds may also stimulate hair follicles and prolong the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle, potentially reducing hair loss and promoting thicker, stronger hair. Additionally, the antioxidant content protects hair from environmental damage, improving shine and resilience. As consumers seek natural solutions for hair health, hop-based products are emerging as a holistic alternative to synthetic additives.

Pro Tip: When formulating with hop extract, consider its solubility—oil-soluble extracts are best for topical products, while water-soluble forms are ideal for beverages and oral supplements. Always use standardized extracts to ensure consistent potency and efficacy.

Emerging Trends and Future Applications

• Research is ongoing into the potential of xanthohumol as a chemopreventive agent due to its antioxidant and anti-cancer properties.
• Hop extracts are being explored in oral care products like toothpaste and mouthwash for their antibacterial effects against plaque-forming bacteria.
• Functional foods and nutraceuticals are incorporating hops for their sleep-supporting and anti-inflammatory benefits.
• Sustainable extraction methods, such as supercritical CO₂ extraction, are improving the purity and environmental footprint of hop-derived ingredients.

In conclusion, beer hops extract is a remarkably versatile natural compound with scientifically supported applications across pharmaceuticals, food and beverages, and cosmetics. Its unique combination of flavor, preservation, and therapeutic properties positions it as a valuable ingredient in the development of innovative, health-conscious products. As research continues to uncover new benefits, the role of hops extract in modern industry is poised for continued growth.

Frequently Asked Questions About Beer Hops Extract

Beer hops extract is a concentrated product derived from the female flowers (commonly called cones) of the hop plant (*Humulus lupulus*), which is primarily used in brewing beer. These cones contain resins, essential oils, and other bioactive compounds that contribute to the bitterness, flavor, aroma, and stability of beer.

The extraction process isolates key components—such as alpha acids (e.g., humulone) for bitterness and essential oils (e.g., myrcene, linalool) for aroma—while removing fibrous plant material. This results in a highly potent, consistent, and shelf-stable product that brewers can precisely dose during the brewing process. Compared to whole or pelletized hops, extracts offer better efficiency, reduced storage space, and improved batch-to-batch consistency, making them ideal for large-scale and craft brewing operations alike.

Several extraction techniques are employed to obtain high-quality beer hops extract, each with distinct advantages depending on scale, desired compounds, and cost:

• Supercritical CO₂ Extraction: The most prevalent method in commercial brewing. It uses pressurized carbon dioxide to selectively extract alpha and beta acids and essential oils without leaving solvent residues. This method preserves delicate aromatic compounds and produces a clean, waxy concentrate ideal for bittering and flavoring.
• Ethanol Extraction: A cost-effective and accessible method, especially popular among smaller craft breweries. Ethanol dissolves both polar and non-polar compounds, capturing a broad spectrum of hop constituents. While effective, it may require additional purification steps to remove chlorophyll and tannins.
• Traditional Dry Hopping: Although not a true extraction method, dry hopping involves adding whole or pelletized hops directly to fermenting or finished beer. This technique enhances aroma and flavor without contributing significant bitterness and is often used in combination with liquid extracts to achieve complex sensory profiles in styles like IPAs and pale ales.

Each method influences the final beer’s character, and many modern breweries use a hybrid approach to balance efficiency, flavor depth, and cost-effectiveness.

Absolutely—beyond their traditional role in beer production, hops and their extracts have found diverse applications across multiple industries due to their unique chemical profile:

• Skin Care & Cosmetics: Hops are rich in antioxidants and polyphenols, making them valuable ingredients in anti-aging creams, serums, and toners. Their anti-inflammatory properties help soothe irritated skin and reduce redness, while their antimicrobial effects support acne treatment formulations.
• Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Hops extract is increasingly used to flavor non-alcoholic beers, hop-infused seltzers, and functional beverages, providing authentic beer-like bitterness and aroma without alcohol content.
• Distilled Spirits & Mixology: Craft distillers use hop extracts to flavor gin, hop-infused vodkas, and experimental spirits, adding layers of complexity and botanical depth.
• Pharmaceuticals: Due to their sedative, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties, hop compounds (especially xanthohumol and myrcene) are being studied for use in natural sleep aids, anxiety-reducing supplements, and topical treatments for skin infections or wound healing.

These expanding applications highlight the versatility of hops beyond brewing, positioning them as a valuable natural ingredient in wellness and lifestyle products.

Yes, emerging research and traditional use suggest that hops extracts offer several potential health benefits, particularly when used in medicinal or topical formulations:

• Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Compounds like xanthohumol and humulone can help reduce systemic inflammation, potentially offering relief for conditions such as arthritis or metabolic syndrome.
• Antioxidant Protection: Hops are rich in polyphenols that neutralize free radicals, protecting cells from oxidative stress. In skincare, this helps prevent premature aging, UV damage, and environmental pollution effects.
• Antimicrobial & Antibacterial Properties: Hops exhibit strong activity against certain bacteria (including *Staphylococcus aureus*), supporting their use in natural antiseptics, acne treatments, and preservatives in cosmetic products.
• Sedative & Anxiolytic Effects: The natural compound myrcene, along with essential oils in hops, has calming properties. Hops are often combined with valerian root in herbal supplements to promote better sleep, reduce anxiety, and improve sleep quality.
• Hormonal Balance (Phytoestrogens): Some hop derivatives contain prenylflavonoids that mimic estrogen, which may help alleviate menopausal symptoms, though this should be approached with medical guidance.

While moderate consumption of hop-containing beverages like beer may offer mild benefits, concentrated extracts used in supplements or skincare provide more targeted therapeutic effects. Always consult a healthcare provider before using hops medicinally, especially for individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions.

Yes, although rare, allergic reactions to hops—whether in whole form, pellets, or concentrated extracts—are possible, particularly in individuals with sensitivities to plants in the Cannabaceae family (which includes hops and cannabis) or those prone to pollen allergies.

Common symptoms include:

• Skin Reactions: Contact dermatitis, itching, redness, hives, or swelling at the site of exposure (e.g., from skincare products containing hops).
• Respiratory Issues: Sneezing, nasal congestion, or asthma-like symptoms, especially when inhaling hop dust during brewing or handling dried cones.
• Systemic Reactions: In rare cases, ingestion of hops (especially in large amounts) can trigger more severe responses, including gastrointestinal discomfort or anaphylaxis—characterized by throat swelling, difficulty breathing, rapid pulse, and dizziness.

Dogs are particularly sensitive to hops, and even small amounts can cause malignant hyperthermia, a life-threatening condition. While human toxicity is much lower, individuals with known plant allergies should exercise caution when using hop-based products. If an allergic reaction is suspected, discontinue use immediately and seek medical attention. Patch testing is recommended before using hop-containing cosmetics.