Amomum Aromaticum Fruit Extract: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 23, 2025
Share:
Inside this article:

All information on this page is verified using The Personal Care Products Council's (PCPC) INCI database. Our ingredient analyses are based exclusively on PCPC's technical data to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Amomum Aromaticum Fruit Extract?

Amomum Aromaticum Fruit Extract comes from the small oval fruit of Amomum aromaticum, a plant in the ginger family. The fruit is rich in fragrant essential oils, natural sugars and gentle acids that give it skin-loving qualities. Traditionally the spice has added warm flavor and aroma to dishes across Southeast Asia, and its pleasant scent later caught the eye of perfumers. As interest grew in plant-based beauty, formulators began testing the fruit’s soothing and smoothing effects on skin, bringing it into modern cosmetics.

To make the extract, ripe fruits are cleaned, dried then milled into a coarse powder. The powder is soaked in a cosmetic-grade solvent such as water, glycerin or a mix of water and propylene glycol. This pulls the active compounds into the liquid. After steeping, the mixture is filtered, concentrated and sometimes blended with a mild preservative to keep it stable. The resulting extract is a golden to amber liquid that mixes easily into both water-based and some oil-in-water products.

You’ll most often find Amomum Aromaticum Fruit Extract in everyday moisturizers, calming masks, lightweight serums, hand creams, body lotions and after-sun gels. Brands add it to formulas that aim to leave skin feeling soft, comfortable and freshly scented.

Amomum Aromaticum Fruit Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This botanical is valued mainly for one key job in skin care: skin conditioning. By helping the outer layer hold on to moisture and feel smoother, the extract supports a soft supple look and touch. Its natural oils lend a gentle aroma while the sugars create a light, breathable film that leaves skin less tight and more comfortable after cleansing or sun exposure.

Who Can Use Amomum Aromaticum Fruit Extract

Most skin types tolerate this fruit extract well. Normal, dry and combination skin often appreciates the light moisturising film it leaves behind, while oily skin benefits from its non-greasy feel. Highly sensitive or reactive skin should proceed with caution only because the natural aromatic compounds could trigger redness in a small subset of users.

The ingredient is 100% plant derived so it is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians without reservation.

No published studies link Amomum Aromaticum Fruit Extract with problems during pregnancy or breastfeeding. That said, research is limited and every pregnancy is unique, so this is not medical advice. Anyone who is pregnant or nursing should check with a qualified healthcare provider before adding new skincare products to their routine.

The extract is not known to cause photosensitivity and can be used during the day or evening without increasing the risk of sunburn. Always finish daytime routines with a broad-spectrum sunscreen for overall protection.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Side effects from topical use of Amomum Aromaticum Fruit Extract vary from person to person. The points below list potential reactions that could occur although they are unlikely for most users when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.

  • Mild skin irritation such as redness or itching
  • Stinging or burning sensation on very compromised skin
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to ginger-family plants or natural fragrances
  • Exacerbation of existing fragrance intolerance due to its aromatic compounds

If any of these effects appear discontinue use immediately and seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1 / 5 (very low likelihood of clogging pores)

Amomum Aromaticum Fruit Extract is largely composed of water-soluble sugars and only trace amounts of lightweight aromatic oils, so it does not sit heavily on the skin or block pores. Because it does not form an occlusive film and is used at low concentrations, breakouts are uncommon. Those who are prone to acne can generally use products containing this extract without added concern, though overall formula design still matters. Very oily formulas that happen to include the extract could raise the risk of congestion, but the extract itself is considered low comedogenic.

Summary

Amomum Aromaticum Fruit Extract conditions skin by boosting surface hydration, smoothing rough spots and leaving a subtle pleasant scent. Natural sugars bind water, essential oils provide a comforting aroma and gentle acids help refine texture for a soft supple feel. While it offers these perks it remains a niche ingredient found mainly in select moisturizers, serums and body care coming out of Asian and botanical-focused brands.

Current data point to a good safety profile with only rare reports of irritation or allergy. As with any new cosmetic, perform a quick patch test first to be sure your skin agrees with it.

Was this article helpful?
More from Glooshi:
ADVERTISEMENT
Get all our top headlines in beauty.
Delivered right to your inbox each week. Zero spam, all goodness, opt-out at anytime.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Get the latest beauty news, top product recommendations & brand-exclusive discount codes direct to your inbox.
Send good feedback:

All feedback is greatly appreciated, anonymous, and will be used to improve the quality of our articles.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Send bad feedback:

All feedback is greatly appreciated, anonymous, and will be used to improve the quality of our articles.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Search