What Is Clerodendrum Trichotomum Extract?
Clerodendrum Trichotomum Extract is a botanical ingredient obtained from the whole Clerodendrum trichotomum plant, an ornamental shrub native to East Asia and parts of India. The plant is known for its fragrant white flowers and vivid blue berries and has been used in folk beauty rituals for centuries. Modern cosmetics makers value the extract for its mix of plant sugars, flavonoids and small amounts of natural oils that help soften and support the skin’s surface.
To create the extract the harvested stems, leaves and flowers are cleaned, dried and soaked in a gentle solvent such as water or a water-glycol blend. The resulting infusion is filtered, concentrated and standardized so each batch delivers a consistent level of active compounds. Because the process relies on mild temperatures and food grade solvents it keeps the plant’s delicate molecules intact while limiting unwanted residues.
You will often see Clerodendrum Trichotomum Extract in leave-on products that aim to improve skin feel including daily moisturizers, lightweight gels, soothing sheet masks, anti aging serums and after sun lotions. It can also appear in rinse-off formulas like creamy cleansers and hydrating face washes where it offers a conditioning boost without making the texture heavy.
Clerodendrum Trichotomum Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators choose this extract mainly for one key role that directly affects how skin looks and feels.
Skin conditioning: The blend of plant sugars and flavonoids forms a thin breathable layer that helps the skin hold water longer, leaving it smoother and more supple. By reinforcing surface hydration it can soften rough spots, reduce the look of dryness and give a refreshed healthy finish. When used with humectants such as glycerin it can improve overall comfort and cut down on tightness after cleansing.
Who Can Use Clerodendrum Trichotomum Extract
This gentle plant extract is generally suitable for all skin types, including dry, balanced, oily and even sensitive skin, because it focuses on surface hydration without leaving a heavy or greasy feel. People with extremely reactive skin should still pay attention to the full ingredient list of a product, as the extract is often combined with other actives that may not agree with them.
Because it is derived solely from a plant source and processed with food grade solvents, the ingredient itself is appropriate for both vegetarians and vegans; animal-derived substances are not used during extraction. Anyone following a strict vegan lifestyle should still confirm that the final cosmetic formula is free of animal-based additives such as beeswax or collagen.
No specific warnings exist for pregnant or breastfeeding women related to topical use of Clerodendrum Trichotomum Extract. That said, this information is not medical advice. Expectant or nursing mothers should ask their healthcare provider before adding any new skincare product to their routine just to be safe.
The extract is not known to cause photosensitivity, so there is no extra need for sun avoidance beyond normal daily sunscreen habits.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Clerodendrum Trichotomum Extract differ from person to person; the items below outline possible but uncommon effects. When the ingredient is formulated and used as intended most users experience none of these issues.
- Mild skin irritation or redness
- Transient stinging or tingling on very sensitive skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to members of the mint family (Lamiaceae)
- Interaction with other strong actives (such as high-level exfoliating acids) that could increase overall skin sensitivity
If any negative reaction occurs stop using the product and consult a qualified medical professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Clerodendrum Trichotomum Extract is made up mostly of water-soluble sugars and lightweight flavonoids with only trace oils, so it does not tend to block pores. The low rating reflects its minimal lipid content and the fact that it is typically used at small percentages in formulas. It should be fine for those prone to acne or breakouts, though the overall pore-clogging potential still depends on the other ingredients in the finished product.
As with any botanical, quality and processing matter. Poorly filtered extracts that contain plant debris or excess residual oil could raise the rating slightly, but reputable suppliers keep these levels very low.
Summary
Clerodendrum Trichotomum Extract is mainly used as a skin-conditioning agent that supports surface hydration. Its mix of natural sugars forms a light film that helps skin hold water and feel smoother, while flavonoids offer a mild soothing touch.
The ingredient is not as mainstream as aloe or chamomile but it is gaining traction in niche moisturizers, serums and K-beauty masks thanks to its gentle profile and pleasant skin feel.
Overall safety is high, with only rare reports of irritation or allergy, mostly in people sensitive to the mint family. When trying any new product it is smart to do a quick patch test to confirm personal compatibility.