What Is Dianthus Carthusianorum Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract?
Dianthus carthusianorum, also called Carthusian pink, is a small flowering plant from the carnation family. When the flowers, leaves and stems are macerated and soaked in a cosmetic-grade solvent such as glycerin or a mix of water and alcohol, the resulting liquid is Dianthus Carthusianorum Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract. The extract holds a mix of natural sugars, flavonoids and trace minerals that the plant produces to protect itself in the wild. Traditional European herb gardens prized Carthusian pink for its color and light scent, and formulators later discovered that its plant sugars left skin feeling soft which led to its entry into modern skin care during the botanical boom of the 1990s. After harvesting, the fresh aerial parts are cleaned, chopped, placed in the chosen solvent then gently filtered and concentrated at low heat to keep delicate compounds intact. Today you will spot this extract in hydrating sheet masks, daily face moisturizers, soothing after-sun gels, lightweight anti-aging lotions and even some eye creams.
Dianthus Carthusianorum Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient is valued for one key role in formulas
Skin conditioning: the blend of natural humectant sugars and mild antioxidants helps bind water to the skin surface, leaving it feeling smoother, more supple and balanced. When included in a cream or serum it supports a soft finish and can boost the overall moisturization profile of the product without adding greasiness.
Who Can Use Dianthus Carthusianorum Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract
The extract is generally considered suitable for oily, dry, combination and sensitive skin because it delivers lightweight hydration without clogging pores or leaving a greasy film. People with a known allergy to carnations or other members of the Caryophyllaceae family should avoid it since botanical cross reactions are possible.
Because the extract is entirely plant derived and no animal by-products are involved in its harvest or processing it aligns with vegan and vegetarian lifestyles.
No data suggest the ingredient is unsafe for pregnant or breastfeeding women when used topically in standard cosmetic concentrations. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review all skincare products with a qualified doctor to be safe.
The extract does not increase photosensitivity so it can be worn during the day without heightening the risk of sunburn. As with most humectant botanicals it pairs well with sunscreen for daytime routines.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects or reactions to topical Dianthus Carthusianorum Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract can vary from person to person. The points below list potential outcomes but they are rare for most users when the ingredient is formulated properly.
- Mild skin irritation such as stinging or burning on very reactive skin
- Contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to carnations or other Caryophyllaceae plants
- Redness or itching if applied to broken or compromised skin
- Watery eyes or temporary eye discomfort if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
If you experience any of the above stop using the product and seek guidance from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0–1
This extract is water soluble and primarily made up of humectant sugars and trace antioxidants, none of which are known to clog pores. It contains no heavy oils, waxes or fatty acids that typically raise comedogenicity scores. Any small amount of residual plant wax is usually well below the threshold that would block follicles, giving it a practical rating of 0 but allowing for a 1 if used in an exceptionally rich base.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
Formulators often pair it with lightweight gel textures so it rarely meets ingredients that could push its pore-clogging potential higher.
Summary
Dianthus Carthusianorum Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract is a gentle botanical that conditions skin by drawing moisture to the surface then helping it stay there, leaving a soft hydrated feel without grease. It accomplishes this through its natural mix of humectant sugars and mild antioxidant compounds.
The extract sits firmly in the supporting-act category of skincare. You will see it in some hydrating masks and lotions but it has not reached the mainstream fame of aloe or hyaluronic acid.
Topically it is considered low risk for most people. Allergic reactions are uncommon outside of those with a known carnation sensitivity and its low comedogenic score makes it friendly for oily or acne-prone users. As with any new ingredient a quick patch test is smart before incorporating a product into your routine.