Capsicum Annuum Fruit Meristem Cell: 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
Share:
Inside this article:

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 Capsicum Annuum Fruit Meristem Cell?

Capsicum Annuum Fruit Meristem Cell comes from the growing tissue deep inside pepper fruit, the same family that gives us bell peppers and chilies. Scientists take a tiny sample of this meristem, then place it in a sterile nutrient medium where the cells multiply on their own. Once enough cells grow, they are collected, purified and blended into a water or glycerin base that can be added to skincare formulas.

Because the cells originate from pepper fruit, they are naturally packed with carotenoids, vitamin C, vitamin E, phenolic compounds and small protective peptides. All of these molecules help the plant guard itself against sun, stress and oxidation, and those same traits make the extract appealing for skin care.

Plant stem cell technology entered the beauty world in the mid-2000s as a way to tap into the high concentration of protective molecules found in young plant tissue. Pepper fruit meristem cells quickly joined the lineup thanks to their bright antioxidant profile and gentle nature.

Today you can spot Capsicum Annuum Fruit Meristem Cell in anti aging serums, daily moisturizers, soothing masks, eye creams, after sun lotions and other leave-on treatments that aim to defend the skin and keep it looking fresh.

Capsicum Annuum Fruit Meristem Cell’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

In skin care formulas this ingredient delivers three main actions that work together for healthier looking skin.

  • Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals created by UV light and pollution which helps slow the look of premature aging and keeps formulas more stable over time
  • Skin Conditioning: Supplies vitamins and nutrients that support a smoother softer surface leaving skin feeling comfortable and hydrated
  • Skin Protecting: Forms a light shield of bioactive compounds that reinforces the skin barrier reducing the impact of daily stressors such as wind heat and airborne particles

Who Can Use Capsicum Annuum Fruit Meristem Cell

This gentle plant extract is generally suitable for all skin types including dry, oily, combination and even sensitive skin because the cultured cells contain virtually no capsaicin, the spicy compound that might otherwise cause irritation in pepper-based ingredients.

As a 100 percent plant-derived material produced in a controlled lab environment, it is considered appropriate for both vegans and vegetarians. No animal tissue is used in the culture process but it is wise to check the full product label for any non-vegan additives that may be mixed in by the finished-product manufacturer.

Current data suggests the ingredient is non-toxic and non-hormonal so it is likely safe for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. This is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should show the complete ingredient list to their doctor before use just to be safe.

Capsicum Annuum Fruit Meristem Cell does not make skin more prone to sunburn. In fact its antioxidant content can help defend against UV-generated free radicals, though it is not a substitute for sunscreen.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Individual responses to topical Capsicum Annuum Fruit Meristem Cell can vary. The points below outline potential side effects but they remain uncommon when the ingredient is used correctly in a well-formulated product.

  • Mild redness or warmth in very sensitive skin
  • Itching or stinging if applied to broken or compromised skin
  • Allergic reaction in people with a known sensitivity to peppers or other Solanaceae plants
  • Contact dermatitis triggered by preservatives or other co-ingredients rather than the meristem cells themselves

If any irritation or unusual reaction occurs stop using the product and consult a qualified healthcare professional

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic)

Capsicum Annuum Fruit Meristem Cell is supplied in a light water or glycerin base with virtually no oils or waxes so it does not clog pores or trap sebum. The molecules it provides are mostly small antioxidants and peptides that rinse clean without leaving a heavy film.

Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.

Keep in mind that the finished formula matters. Heavy butters, silicones or fatty alcohols added by the brand could still bump up the pore-clogging potential so always look at the full ingredient list.

Summary

Capsicum Annuum Fruit Meristem Cell brings three key benefits to skin care: it fights free radicals thanks to its high vitamin C carotenoid and phenolic content, it conditions the surface by delivering lightweight nutrients that soften and smooth, and it helps shield the skin barrier from daily stress.

While it is not as famous as green tea or vitamin C serums, this pepper fruit stem cell extract has been popping up more often in modern moisturizers, eye creams and after sun products because it offers clean plant science without the sting of capsaicin.

Current research shows the ingredient is low risk with few reported reactions. Still every skin is unique so patch test any new product that lists Capsicum Annuum Fruit Meristem Cell to make sure it plays well with your complexion.

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