Helianthemum Nummularium 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 Helianthemum Nummularium Flower Extract?

Helianthemum Nummularium Flower Extract comes from the yellow rock rose, a small flowering shrub that grows in sunny, rocky areas across Europe. The petals are rich in natural antioxidants such as flavonoids, phenolic acids and tannins, along with a light essential oil that gives the plant its pleasant scent. Herbal traditions have long used the flowers to soothe minor skin irritation, and that calming reputation led formulators to explore the extract for modern skin care. To make the ingredient, freshly picked or gently dried flowers are steeped in a mixture of water and a safe food grade solvent like glycerin or propylene glycol. The liquid is then filtered and concentrated to create a stable, easy-to-use extract. Brands add this floral extract to moisturizers, anti aging serums, protective day creams, after-sun gels, sheet masks and other leave-on treatments where extra environmental defense is desired.

Helianthemum Nummularium Flower Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This ingredient is valued for one main benefit in topical products:

Skin protecting: The flower’s antioxidants help neutralize free radicals produced by UV light and urban pollution which can stress the skin and speed up visible aging. By forming a gentle shield of polyphenols it supports the skin’s natural barrier, keeps moisture in and reduces the look of dullness caused by daily environmental exposure.

Who Can Use Helianthemum Nummularium Flower Extract

This gentle floral extract suits most skin types including dry, normal, combination and oily complexions. Its antioxidant profile is calming so even sensitive or redness-prone skin often tolerates it well. There is no known reason for acne-prone skin to avoid it because the ingredient is lightweight and non-pore-clogging.

Because the extract is 100 percent plant derived it is suitable for vegetarians and vegans. Ethical brands usually process the flowers without animal-based solvents or by-products, though checking the finished product’s overall formula is wise if cruelty-free status matters to you.

No published data links Helianthemum Nummularium Flower Extract to problems during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. That said individual circumstances vary so this text is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should ask a healthcare professional before introducing new skincare.

The extract is not known to cause photosensitivity, meaning it will not make skin more likely to burn in the sun. Normal daytime sun protection habits still apply. People with a known allergy to plants in the Cistaceae family should proceed with caution.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Helianthemum Nummularium Flower Extract differ from person to person. The points below list potential side effects that could occur although most users will not experience them when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.

  • Mild stinging or redness
  • Itchiness or localized rash in those allergic to the Cistaceae family
  • Light dryness if the formula pairs the extract with strong astringents
  • Fragrance sensitivity for individuals who react to natural essential oil residues

If any irritation or unexpected reaction develops stop using the product and consult a qualified healthcare provider if symptoms persist.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0

Helianthemum Nummularium Flower Extract is water-soluble, light and free of heavy oils or waxes that typically clog pores. The extract is mainly composed of polyphenols, flavonoids and small amounts of essential oil, all of which sit on the skin in a sheer antioxidant film rather than blocking follicles. Because of this profile it earns a solid non-comedogenic score of 0.

Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.

Keep in mind that finished formulas matter: if the extract is blended into a rich butter or occlusive base, that overall product—not the extract itself—could still cause congestion.

Summary

Helianthemum Nummularium Flower Extract serves primarily as a skin-protecting antioxidant. Its mix of flavonoids, phenolic acids and tannins scavenges free radicals from UV light and pollution, helping the skin maintain a strong barrier and a brighter, less tired appearance.

The ingredient remains a niche floral addition rather than a mainstream hero, yet formulators who seek gentle plant antioxidants often reach for it in day creams, serums and after-sun products.

Current data and consumer use show it to be very safe with low irritation potential, though anyone trying a new product should still perform a small patch test to rule out personal sensitivities.

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