Elsholtzia Splendens Flower 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 Elsholtzia Splendens Flower Extract?

Elsholtzia Splendens Flower Extract comes from the blossoms of Elsholtzia splendens, a mint family plant native to East Asia. The flowers are gently dried then soaked in a mix of water and safe solvents to pull out the helpful molecules, mainly flavonoids and essential oils that give the plant its skin loving properties. Traditionally the plant was valued in folk care for its soothing aroma and calming touch on the skin, which led modern formulators to test and adopt it for beauty products. After extraction, the liquid is filtered, concentrated, and standardized so each batch offers consistent quality. You will most often spot this extract in moisturizers, calming masks, after-sun gels, anti-aging serums, and lightweight lotions made for daily care.

Elsholtzia Splendens Flower Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This extract is prized in formulas because it works as a skin conditioning agent, helping the skin feel softer, smoother, and well cared for after application.

Who Can Use Elsholtzia Splendens Flower Extract

Thanks to its gentle, soothing profile Elsholtzia Splendens Flower Extract is generally well suited for all skin types, including sensitive and mature skin. Its light texture and non-greasy finish make it comfortable for oily or combination skin, while the conditioning effect can help dry or dehydrated skin feel softer and more supple. There are currently no known reasons it would be unsuitable for any particular skin type, though individual tolerance always varies.

The extract is plant derived and no animal by-products are involved in its production, making it appropriate for vegans and vegetarians.

No specific warnings exist for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, but out of an abundance of caution expectant or nursing mothers should ask their healthcare professional before adding any new cosmetic ingredient to their routine. This information is not medical advice.

The extract does not increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight and there is no evidence of photosensitizing compounds in the flower’s natural profile.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Elsholtzia Splendens Flower Extract can differ from person to person. The points below list potential side effects only and most users will not experience them when the ingredient is properly formulated in a cosmetic product.

  • Localized redness or irritation
  • Mild itching
  • Rare allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to plants from the mint family

If any discomfort or visible reaction occurs discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic)

Elsholtzia Splendens Flower Extract is predominantly water soluble and contains only trace amounts of lightweight aromatic compounds so it does not leave an oily film that could clog pores. Because it lacks heavy lipids and waxes typically linked to breakouts, it earns the lowest possible comedogenic score. This makes it a comfortable option for acne-prone or congested skin. If the extract is blended into a formula rich in heavy oils the overall product’s pore-clogging potential will depend more on those carriers than on the extract itself.

Summary

Elsholtzia Splendens Flower Extract serves mainly as a skin-conditioning agent that helps the surface feel softer, smoother and calmer. Its mix of flavonoids and gentle essential oils supports this effect by providing lightweight moisturization and a mild soothing sensation.

The extract is still a niche player compared with bigger names like chamomile or aloe but it is gradually appearing in calming masks, after-sun gels and daily lotions where a plant-based soothing touch is wanted.

Overall safety is high with few reports of irritation and no known phototoxicity. As with any new skincare ingredient it is wise to patch test a small area first to confirm personal compatibility before full use.

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