Eugenia Caryophyllus Bud 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 Eugenia Caryophyllus Bud Extract?

Eugenia Caryophyllus Bud Extract comes from the dried flower buds of the clove tree, Syzygium aromaticum, which grows mainly in Indonesia, Madagascar and parts of India. The buds are rich in essential oils, especially eugenol, a fragrant compound that gives cloves their warm spicy scent. They also hold tannins, flavonoids and small amounts of vitamins that lend mild antioxidant properties.

Clove buds have been valued since ancient times as a prized spice and for personal care rituals such as breath freshening and fragrant body oils. Perfumers later tapped into their aromatic power for fine fragrances. As skincare evolved in the last century formulators began extracting the buds to capture both their scent and skin-friendly elements in a form that blends easily with creams and lotions.

To create the cosmetic extract, dried buds are gently ground then soaked in a cosmetic-grade solvent or pressed with super-critical CO2. The resulting liquid is filtered and standardized so each batch has consistent aroma and activity. The final extract is a golden to brown fluid or soft resin.

You will spot Eugenia Caryophyllus Bud Extract in a variety of products, including face masks, night creams, anti-aging serums, aftershave balms, hair conditioners, solid perfumes and natural deodorants. Its warm scent pairs well with citrus, vanilla, rose and woody notes, making it a versatile choice for both skincare and haircare lines that seek a comforting spicy touch.

Eugenia Caryophyllus Bud Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

In formulas this ingredient pulls double duty, adding both sensory appeal and skin care perks.

  • Perfuming – The extract supplies a rich clove aroma that masks unwanted base odors and gives products a cozy, spicy character. Its lingering scent helps fragrances last longer on skin without needing heavy synthetic fixatives.
  • Skin conditioning – Mild antioxidant and soothing compounds in the buds can leave skin feeling softer and more comfortable. When blended into creams or serums the extract supports a smooth after-feel and may help maintain a healthy-looking complexion.

Who Can Use Eugenia Caryophyllus Bud Extract

This extract suits most skin types, particularly normal, combination and oily skin that enjoy lightweight formulas with a warm scent. Dry skin can benefit from its conditioning feel when paired with richer emollients. Those with very sensitive or compromised skin should approach carefully because the natural eugenol can be stimulating and might trigger redness in reactive complexions.

Because the ingredient is entirely plant derived and no animal by-products are involved during harvesting or extraction, it is considered appropriate for both vegetarians and vegans.

Current data do not flag topical clove bud derivatives as high risk for pregnancy or nursing; however research is limited. This content is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding should run any new skincare product past a healthcare professional before use just to be safe.

Eugenia Caryophyllus Bud Extract is not known to cause photosensitivity, so daytime wear is generally fine. It also blends well with most other cosmetic actives and preservatives, though formulators tend to keep its level low to avoid a dominant clove scent.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Eugenia Caryophyllus Bud Extract vary between individuals. The points below outline potential side effects that could occur, yet they remain uncommon when the ingredient is used at standard cosmetic levels.

  • Skin irritation such as stinging, warmth or mild redness, particularly on sensitive or freshly exfoliated skin
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in people already sensitized to eugenol or other components of clove oil
  • Worsening of existing eczema or rosacea when applied in high concentrations
  • Eye irritation if the product accidentally migrates into the eye area
  • Increased irritation if layered with potent actives like retinoids or alpha hydroxy acids

If any of these effects occur, stop use immediately and consult a qualified healthcare professional for guidance.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1/5

Eugenia Caryophyllus Bud Extract is largely made up of volatile aromatic compounds that evaporate rather than linger on skin so it has little tendency to block pores. It is typically included at low percentages for scent and mild conditioning which keeps its oil load minimal. For these reasons it earns a low comedogenic score of 1.

Most people who are prone to acne or breakouts can use products containing this extract without added risk of clogging, though its spicy nature may still irritate very reactive skin.

Because the extract is chiefly fragrance, any breakout that does appear is more likely the result of irritation than true pore clogging.

Summary

Eugenia Caryophyllus Bud Extract brings a warm clove aroma to formulas while offering light skin conditioning and antioxidative support. Perfumers prize it for extending scent longevity and skincare brands use its soothing components to leave skin feeling smooth.

The extract sits in the middle of the popularity scale: common enough in natural or aromatherapeutic lines yet not as mainstream as lavender or rose derivatives.

At typical cosmetic strengths it is considered safe for most users with the main caution being possible irritation in sensitive skin. As with any new product a small patch test is smart to confirm personal compatibility.

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