What Is Arachis Hypogaea (Peanut) Sprout Extract?
Arachis Hypogaea (Peanut) Sprout Extract is a plant-derived ingredient made from the young shoots that emerge when peanuts first germinate. These sprouts are rich in amino acids, sugars and antioxidant compounds that help the plant thrive during its earliest growth stage. Beauty chemists became interested in the extract when studies showed the sprouts contain higher levels of hydrating sugars and protective polyphenols than the mature nut. The extract gained popularity in Korean skin care during the early 2010s, then spread to Western formulations looking for botanical alternatives to synthetic moisturizers.
To produce the extract, raw peanuts are soaked in water under controlled warmth and humidity to trigger sprouting. After several days the fresh shoots are collected, finely ground and subjected to a gentle solvent extraction, most often with water or a water-glycerin mix. The liquid is then filtered and concentrated before being preserved for use in cosmetics.
You will usually find Arachis Hypogaea Sprout Extract in hydrating serums, lightweight moisturizers, sheet masks, anti-aging creams and after-sun treatments that aim to calm or replenish the skin.
Arachis Hypogaea (Peanut) Sprout Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In topical products this botanical brings two main benefits:
- Humectant – the natural sugars and amino acids in the extract pull water from the environment into the upper layers of the skin improving hydration, softness and overall plumpness
- Skin protecting – its antioxidant polyphenols help neutralize free radicals created by UV exposure or pollution supporting the skin’s barrier and reducing the look of premature aging
Who Can Use Arachis Hypogaea (Peanut) Sprout Extract
This extract is generally well tolerated by dry, normal, combination and even oily skin since its lightweight humectant action adds water without greasy residue. Its antioxidant content can also be calming for sensitive skin though anyone with a known peanut allergy should approach products containing the extract with caution.
Because it is fully plant based the ingredient fits vegan and vegetarian lifestyles with no animal derivatives used at any point in production.
No specific warnings have been issued for pregnant or breastfeeding women, yet out of an abundance of caution this should not be taken as medical advice and those individuals should confirm any new skincare product with their doctor.
The extract is not known to cause photosensitivity so daytime use is considered safe when paired with a broad-spectrum sunscreen.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical Arachis Hypogaea (Peanut) Sprout Extract vary from person to person. The issues listed below are only potential concerns and are unlikely to affect most users when the ingredient is used correctly in a well-formulated product.
- Allergic contact dermatitis in people with peanut allergy
- Redness or mild stinging on very sensitive skin
- Occasional clogged pores or breakouts if the formula is overly rich for acne-prone skin
If you notice irritation stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional for advice.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
Arachis Hypogaea (Peanut) Sprout Extract is produced with water or water-glycerin solvents so it contains very little oil. Its makeup leans toward hydrating sugars and amino acids rather than pore-clogging lipids, giving it a low likelihood of trapping sebum inside follicles. A rating of 1 reflects this minimal risk while acknowledging that trace peanut residues could still pose a problem for exceptionally reactive or oily skin types.
Because the rating is low most people prone to acne or breakouts should tolerate the extract without issue.
Formulators often pair the ingredient with lightweight gel textures, further reducing the chance of congestion compared with richer nut oils.
Summary
Arachis Hypogaea (Peanut) Sprout Extract acts mainly as a humectant and a skin protecting antioxidant source. Its natural sugars and amino acids attract moisture to keep skin supple while the polyphenols help fend off environmental stress that can age or dull the complexion.
The extract enjoyed a surge of popularity in Korean beauty lines, then found its way into global formulas looking for plant-based hydration boosters. It remains a niche inclusion rather than a mainstream staple but appears more frequently in clean beauty and gel moisturizers.
Overall safety is high with few reported issues beyond potential peanut allergy reactions or mild sensitivity. As with any new skincare ingredient it is wise to perform a quick patch test before full-face use to confirm personal compatibility.