Cyclanthera Pedata 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 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 Cyclanthera Pedata Fruit Extract?

Cyclanthera Pedata Fruit Extract comes from the fruit of Cyclanthera pedata, a climbing plant in the cucumber family that grows in parts of Central and South America. The fruit is sometimes called caigua or slipper gourd and has been eaten in local diets for centuries. Its rise in beauty care began when researchers noted the fruit’s naturally high levels of vitamins, flavonoids and other antioxidant compounds that help protect plant tissues from stress. To make the extract, the fresh or dried fruit is crushed, then soaked in a skin-friendly solvent such as water or glycerin. The liquid is filtered to remove solids, leaving a concentrated solution that can be blended into cosmetic formulas. You will usually spot it in masks, revitalizing serums, daily moisturizers and anti-aging products aimed at shielding skin from everyday environmental damage.

Cyclanthera Pedata Fruit Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This ingredient serves one key purpose in skincare.

Antioxidant: The extract helps neutralize free radicals created by sun exposure, pollution and stress. By curbing this oxidative stress it can support a brighter, healthier-looking complexion, help maintain skin firmness and extend the shelf life of the overall formula by protecting other delicate ingredients from breaking down.

Who Can Use Cyclanthera Pedata Fruit Extract

Cyclanthera Pedata Fruit Extract is generally well tolerated by all skin types including dry, normal, combination, oily and sensitive skin because it is a mild water-glycerin based antioxidant with no known comedogenic ingredients or harsh acids. People with highly reactive skin should still keep an eye on the ingredient list in case it is blended with additional actives that could trigger sensitivity.

The extract is plant derived and typically processed without animal by-products so it is considered suitable for vegans and vegetarians.

No specific warnings link this fruit extract to pregnancy or breastfeeding concerns, yet bodies can be more reactive during these times. This information is not medical advice; anyone pregnant or nursing should show any new skincare product to a qualified healthcare professional first to be safe.

The ingredient does not increase photosensitivity, meaning it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. Standard daytime sun protection is still recommended when using any antioxidant routine.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Cyclanthera Pedata Fruit Extract can vary from person to person. The points below outline possible but uncommon side effects when the ingredient is applied to skin. Assuming the product is properly formulated most users will not experience these issues.

  • Mild irritation such as transient redness or stinging, usually when used in a high concentration
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to plants in the cucumber family
  • Interaction with other strong actives (like high-percentage acids or retinoids) that could heighten overall skin sensitivity
  • Rare discoloration or staining of very light fabrics if the product is not fully absorbed before dressing

If any unwanted reaction occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5 – Cyclanthera Pedata Fruit Extract is obtained from a watery fruit and is typically delivered in water or glycerin, both of which sit at the bottom of the comedogenic scale. It contains virtually no pore-clogging lipids or waxes and is used at low percentages to supply antioxidants rather than to add richness to a formula. Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin. Formulas that pair it with heavy oils or butters could change the overall pore-clogging potential, so check the full ingredient list.

Summary

Cyclanthera Pedata Fruit Extract is valued for one main job: acting as an antioxidant that helps fend off free radicals created by UV light, pollution and daily stress. The fruit’s natural vitamins and flavonoids donate electrons to these unstable molecules which helps keep skin looking bright and smooth while also stabilizing other delicate ingredients in a product.

Although not as famous as vitamin C or green tea, the extract is gaining quiet traction in niche clean beauty lines that want a plant-based booster without the irritation sometimes linked to stronger actives. It is generally considered very safe, showing low irritation and zero comedogenic risk in most formulations.

As with any new skincare addition it is smart to patch test first, especially if your skin is reactive, to confirm personal compatibility.

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