Elaeagnus Latifolia Leaf Cell 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 27, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Elaeagnus Latifolia Leaf Cell Extract?

Elaeagnus Latifolia Leaf Cell Extract comes from the cultured leaf cells of Elaeagnus latifolia L., a shrub native to South and Southeast Asia known for its small red fruit and silvery leaves. By working with plant cell culture rather than harvesting whole leaves, laboratories can grow the cells in controlled conditions, then collect and purify the bio-active compounds without stressing wild plants. This sustainable method yields an extract rich in polyphenols, flavonoids, vitamins and trace minerals that give the plant its natural resilience.

The extract caught the attention of the beauty industry once studies revealed its strong antioxidant profile and a pleasant, lightly fruity aroma. Early trials in spa products showed it could help shield skin from everyday pollutants while adding a fresh scent, leading formulators to adopt it in broader skincare ranges during the past decade.

After sterile leaf tissue is placed in a growth medium, the cells multiply into a callus that is kept under specific light, temperature and nutrient conditions. Once enough biomass is produced, the cells are harvested, filtered and gently extracted with water or a mild solvent. The resulting fluid is then concentrated and standardized for consistent quality before being blended into finished products such as sheet masks, antioxidant serums, daily moisturizers, after-sun gels and botanical perfumes.

Elaeagnus Latifolia Leaf Cell Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This multitasking botanical brings several helpful properties to personal care formulas

  • Flavouring: Adds a subtle sweet-tart note that improves the taste of lip balms and rinse-off mouth products
  • Fragrance: Contributes a gentle herbal-fruity scent that can freshen up sprays, creams and solid perfumes without synthetic aroma chemicals
  • Skin protecting: Supplies antioxidants and soothing agents that help defend the skin surface from oxidative stress and minor irritation, supporting a healthier looking complexion over time

Who Can Use Elaeagnus Latifolia Leaf Cell Extract

Thanks to its gentle antioxidant profile and low oil content, this extract suits most skin types including dry, balanced, combination, oily and sensitive. It is lightweight, non occlusive and normally does not clog pores, so acne-prone users can generally apply it without worry. Anyone with a known allergy to the Elaeagnus family or strong sensitivities to natural fragrances should proceed cautiously because the ingredient does carry a mild botanical scent.

The extract is 100% plant derived and produced in a laboratory culture with no animal by-products, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians.

Current data do not flag any specific concerns for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Still, this is not medical advice and those who are expecting or nursing should review any new skincare item with their health care provider before use.

Elaeagnus Latifolia Leaf Cell Extract does not increase photosensitivity, so it can be worn day or night without raising sunburn risk. It also plays well with most common cosmetic ingredients, though its fragrance note may overlap with other scented actives in heavily perfumed formulas.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Elaeagnus Latifolia Leaf Cell Extract vary from person to person. The points below cover potential side effects that could occur, yet most users will not experience them when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.

  • Mild redness or stinging on very reactive skin
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to Elaeagnus species or related plants
  • Fragrance irritation for those intolerant to natural aromatic compounds
  • Increased dryness if paired with multiple strong exfoliating acids or retinoids

If any irritation, swelling or rash develops, discontinue use and consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1/5

Elaeagnus Latifolia Leaf Cell Extract is primarily water based with very little lipid content, so it does not form an oily film that can trap dead skin cells. The antioxidant molecules are lightweight and tend to sit on the skin surface then rinse away easily, leading to a low likelihood of clogging pores. Because of this, the extract is generally considered suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.

Formulas that pair the extract with heavy oils, waxes or butters could raise the overall comedogenicity of the finished product, but the extract itself remains low risk.

Summary

Elaeagnus Latifolia Leaf Cell Extract serves three main functions in cosmetics: it adds a mild sweet-tart flavour, contributes a soft herbal-fruity fragrance and supplies antioxidants that protect skin from environmental stress. These benefits stem from its naturally occurring polyphenols, flavonoids, vitamins and minerals produced in controlled plant cell culture.

The ingredient is still a niche choice compared with long-established botanicals like green tea or chamomile, yet its sustainable sourcing and multi-tasking profile are helping it gain steady traction in modern clean beauty lines.

Current research and user reports indicate a high safety margin with few adverse effects, making it a low-risk addition to most routines. As with any new cosmetic active, patch testing a small area first is a smart way to confirm personal compatibility before full-face use.

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