Iresine Weberbaueri Flower/Leaf/Stem 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 30, 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 Iresine Weberbaueri Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract?

Iresine Weberbaueri Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract comes from the blooms, foliage and stalks of Iresine weberbaueri, a flowering plant in the amaranth family native to South America. The plant has long been valued in folk practices for its vivid red pigments and soothing properties. Cosmetic chemists became interested in it for those same traits during the natural ingredient boom of the late 1990s when brands started looking for botanical alternatives to synthetic conditioning agents.

The extract contains a balanced mix of plant sugars, amino acids, flavonoids and minerals that help attract and hold water on the skin surface while supporting a comfortable feel. To obtain the extract, the harvested plant parts are gently dried then subjected to a water-or-glycol infusion. The resulting liquid is filtered and sometimes concentrated to create a stable raw material ready for formulation.

You will typically find Iresine Weberbaueri Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract in hydrating masks, daily moisturizers, refreshing facial mists, after-sun lotions and lightweight anti-aging serums where a smooth skin finish is desired.

Iresine Weberbaueri Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

The ingredient is prized by formulators for its primary role as a skin conditioning agent, meaning it helps keep the skin soft supple and healthy looking by boosting moisture retention and improving texture.

Who Can Use Iresine Weberbaueri Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract

This botanical suits most skin types thanks to its gentle, water-binding profile. Dry or mature skin benefits from the added hydration while sensitive or easily reactive skin generally tolerates it well because it contains no known harsh acids or exfoliants. Oily or acne-prone users can also incorporate it since the extract is lightweight and non-occlusive, though pairing it with non-comedogenic bases is still smart.

Because the ingredient is 100% plant derived it is appropriate for both vegans and vegetarians with no animal processing involved in standard sourcing.

There is no evidence that topical use poses a risk to pregnant or breastfeeding women when used in normal cosmetic concentrations. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should run any skincare product past a qualified healthcare professional to be on the safe side.

The extract does not increase photosensitivity so it can be used morning or night without heightening the risk of sunburn. Standard daytime SPF use is still recommended for overall skin health.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Side effects from topical Iresine Weberbaueri Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract vary from person to person. The points below list potential issues but most users will not experience them when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.

  • Mild redness or stinging
  • Itchiness in individuals with a known amaranth family allergy
  • Contact dermatitis triggered by other formula components rather than the extract itself
  • Eye irritation if the product is accidentally rubbed into the eyes

Discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if you notice any persistent or worsening reaction while using the ingredient or a product that contains it.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5

Iresine Weberbaueri Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract is primarily composed of water-soluble sugars, amino acids and small flavonoids that sit lightly on the skin and rinse away easily, which means it does not form pore-blocking films or leave heavy residues. Because it lacks oils, waxes or long-chain fatty acids that typically trigger breakouts, it scores a zero on the comedogenic scale.

Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.

While the extract itself is non-clogging, always consider the full formula since richer carriers or occlusive ingredients can alter a product’s overall pore-friendliness.

Summary

Iresine Weberbaueri Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract functions as a skin-conditioning agent by drawing water to the surface and smoothing rough texture thanks to its natural humectant sugars, replenishing amino acids and supportive minerals. Though not a headline superstar like hyaluronic acid or aloe, it has a quiet following among formulators who want a gentle plant-based hydrator that layers well in light lotions and mists.

Available safety data shows a low risk of irritation or allergy for most users, with no known toxicity at cosmetic use levels. As with any new skincare ingredient, patch test first to confirm personal compatibility before full-face use.

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