Calendula Officinalis Flower/Leaf/Stem Juice: 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 24, 2025
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All information on this page is verified using publicly available nomenclature standards and reference materials from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) and the European Commission's CosIng database. Our analyses are based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Calendula Officinalis Flower/Leaf/Stem Juice?

Calendula Officinalis Flower/Leaf/Stem Juice is the watery extract squeezed from the bright orange flowers plus the green leaves and stems of the garden marigold, Calendula officinalis. The plant is rich in natural sugars, flavonoids, carotenoids and a touch of essential oils, all of which help explain its gentle skin-loving reputation. Calendula has been used in folk beauty rituals since medieval Europe where petals were steeped in skin washes and balms to soothe rough patches. Modern cosmetic labs follow a cleaner process: freshly harvested plant parts are crushed or pressed, the juice is filtered then lightly preserved to stay stable for use in formulas.

You will most often spot this juice in calming face masks, daily moisturizers for sensitive skin, after-sun gels, baby lotions and some anti-aging serums that aim to hydrate while easing redness.

Calendula Officinalis Flower/Leaf/Stem Juice’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This ingredient brings one main benefit to a formula.

As a skin-conditioning agent, it helps the surface of the skin feel softer and look healthier by adding light moisture and supporting the skin’s own barrier. The natural plant compounds work together to calm minor irritation, which makes products containing this juice feel soothing and comfortable on application.

Who Can Use Calendula Officinalis Flower/Leaf/Stem Juice

This gentle plant juice suits nearly every skin type. Normal, dry, sensitive and even oily or breakout-prone skin can all benefit from its light hydration and calming nature. It is rarely too heavy or greasy which keeps pores from feeling clogged.

Because it is derived purely from flowers, leaves and stems with no animal input, it is appropriate for vegans and vegetarians.

Current research suggests the ingredient is generally safe for use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding, yet this is not medical advice. Anyone expecting or nursing should ask a healthcare professional before adding new products to routine, just to be safe.

Calendula juice does not make skin more sensitive to the sun so no extra daytime precautions are required beyond regular sunscreen use.

It also pairs well with most common skincare actives such as niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and gentle exfoliating acids without causing instability or irritation.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Calendula Officinalis Flower/Leaf/Stem Juice differ from person to person. The issues listed below are only potential outcomes and most users will never experience them when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.

  • Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to plants of the Asteraceae family (ragweed, chamomile, daisies)
  • Redness, itching or stinging if applied to already broken or highly abraded skin
  • Mild rash when paired with very high concentrations of alcohol or strong essential oils in a formula

If any discomfort or visible irritation occurs discontinue use and seek guidance from a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5

Calendula Officinalis Flower/Leaf/Stem Juice is a water-rich extract with virtually no heavy oils or waxes so it does not linger in pores or create the kind of film that encourages blockages. Its light texture and quick absorption keep it from trapping dead skin cells or excess sebum, which is why it earns the lowest possible score.

Because of this zero rating it is generally considered suitable for skin that is prone to acne or frequent breakouts.

The only time congestion could become a concern is if the juice appears in a formula thickened with richer butters or occlusive silicones. In that case the overall product might clog pores even though the calendula juice itself does not.

Summary

Calendula Officinalis Flower/Leaf/Stem Juice is mainly valued as a skin-conditioning agent that softens, hydrates and soothes thanks to its mix of natural sugars, flavonoids and carotenoids. These compounds support the skin barrier, calm mild irritation and lend a healthy look to the surface.

While not as famous as aloe or green tea, the ingredient enjoys steady popularity in gentle moisturizers, baby care lines and after-sun products where comfort is a selling point. Brands appreciate its botanical story and the fact that it plays nicely with most actives.

Overall safety is high with only rare allergic reactions in those sensitive to the Asteraceae plant family. Still, everyone’s skin is unique so performing a quick patch test when trying a new product containing this juice is a smart move.

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