Helichrysum Stoechas Callus Culture Lysate: 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 Helichrysum Stoechas Callus Culture Lysate?

Helichrysum Stoechas Callus Culture Lysate comes from the immortelle plant, a small yellow flower native to the Mediterranean. Scientists take a tiny sample of the plant and grow it in a lab until it forms a mass of undifferentiated cells called a callus. These cells are then broken down into a lysate, creating a fluid rich in plant metabolites, amino acids, sugars and protective antioxidants. Using lab grown cells means no large-scale harvesting, so it is considered a sustainable way to tap into the plant’s properties. The lysate first appeared in high end skincare lines looking for plant based actives that support hydration and skin comfort. Today you can spot it in moisturizers, serums, sleeping masks, after-sun gels and anti-aging blends where a boost of lightweight moisture is needed.

Helichrysum Stoechas Callus Culture Lysate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

Formulators reach for this ingredient because it offers more than just a pleasant plant origin.

  • Humectant – it attracts water from the environment and draws it into the upper layers of skin helping to keep the surface soft and plump, which in turn can lessen the look of fine lines caused by dryness
  • Skin conditioning – the mix of natural sugars and amino acids smooths and soothes the skin barrier improving overall feel and giving products a silky finish

Who Can Use Helichrysum Stoechas Callus Culture Lysate

Because it is lightweight and water binding, Helichrysum Stoechas Callus Culture Lysate works for dry, normal, combination and oily skin. Those with sensitive or easily reactive skin usually tolerate it well since it contains calming sugars and amino acids rather than strong acids or perfumes. There are no known issues for acne prone skin, though the overall formula of a product still matters.

The lysate is grown in a lab from plant cells with no animal input, so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians.

No data suggest the ingredient is unsafe for pregnant or breastfeeding women when used on skin. Still this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should ask a doctor before adding new products.

The ingredient does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and can be used day or night. It also works well alongside most common actives like niacinamide or hyaluronic acid.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to Helichrysum Stoechas Callus Culture Lysate differ from person to person. The points below list potential side effects and are not what most users will experience when the ingredient is properly formulated.

  • Skin irritation – rare stinging or burning in very reactive skin
  • Redness – temporary flushing if the barrier is already compromised
  • Allergic contact dermatitis – isolated reports of itch or rash in people allergic to plants in the Asteraceae family

If any of these effects occur stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 out of 5. Helichrysum Stoechas Callus Culture Lysate is a water based plant extract free of heavy oils, waxes or fatty acids that commonly block pores. Its molecules stay on the skin surface to bind water rather than settling inside follicles, so it poses virtually no risk of clogging. This means the ingredient is generally suitable for people prone to acne or breakouts. No large scale studies rank its comedogenic potential, but available chemistry data and user feedback support the zero rating. The overall formula still matters: if the product also contains rich butters or silicones the finished item could feel heavier on acne prone skin.

Summary

Helichrysum Stoechas Callus Culture Lysate primarily acts as a humectant and skin conditioner. The lysate’s natural sugars and amino acids pull moisture into the upper layers of skin then smooth the surface, which can soften fine lines linked to dryness and leave a comfortable, silky afterfeel. You will mostly find it in boutique or eco-focused skincare lines rather than on every drugstore shelf, yet its sustainable production and gentle profile are helping it gain traction.

Current research and real-world use show the ingredient is low risk with minimal reports of irritation or allergy, making it safe for most skin types. As with any new skincare addition it is smart to do a quick patch test first just to be sure your skin agrees with it.

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