What Is Lathyrus Odoratus Leaf Extract?
Lathyrus Odoratus Leaf Extract comes from the leaves of the sweet pea plant, a climbing flower loved for its vibrant blooms and delicate scent. The leaves are rich in natural sugars, amino acids and small amounts of flavonoids that help the plant hold moisture and defend itself against stress. Beauty chemists tap into these same qualities to comfort and smooth the skin.
The road from garden vine to lotion bottle started when herbalists noted that crushed sweet pea leaves left skin feeling soft. Over time formulators isolated the leaf extract, tested it for safety and found it to be a gentle skin conditioner, leading to its appearance in modern skin care around the early 2000s.
To create the extract, harvested sweet pea leaves are cleaned and soaked in a mix of water and food grade solvents. The liquid is filtered, concentrated and carefully dried or preserved to keep the active molecules intact. The result is a mild, water-soluble ingredient that blends easily into many cosmetic bases.
Today you might spot Lathyrus Odoratus Leaf Extract in hydrating face creams, soothing sheet masks, refreshing facial mists, anti-aging serums and after-sun gels. It is prized for adding a touch of plant derived comfort without heaviness.
Lathyrus Odoratus Leaf Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This plant extract serves a single yet valuable purpose in skin care formulas.
As a skin conditioning agent, it helps keep the skin surface soft, smooth and well hydrated. The natural sugars draw in water while the amino acids support the skin’s own moisture barrier. Regular use can leave the complexion feeling calm and supple which is why formulators often pair it with humectants like glycerin for an extra boost.
Who Can Use Lathyrus Odoratus Leaf Extract
Lathyrus Odoratus Leaf Extract is gentle enough for nearly every skin type. Dry, normal and combination skin benefit from its moisture-binding sugars while oily or acne-prone complexions appreciate the light, non-greasy feel. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it well because it contains no known harsh fragrances or acids. There are no specific groups for whom the extract is unsuitable, though anyone with a confirmed allergy to legumes should proceed with extra caution.
The ingredient is entirely plant derived and the solvents used in its preparation are typically food grade so products containing it are appropriate for vegans and vegetarians.
No data suggest that topical use poses a risk to pregnant or breastfeeding women, but this is not medical advice. Anyone who is pregnant or nursing should run any skin care product past a qualified health professional just to be safe.
The extract does not increase photosensitivity so it can be used day or night without making skin more prone to sunburn. It is also odor-neutral which means it layers well with other actives or fragrances without causing scent clashes.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Lathyrus Odoratus Leaf Extract vary from person to person. The effects listed below are potential outcomes and are unlikely to be the typical user experience. When used correctly in a well-formulated product most people will not notice any problems.
- Mild redness or flushing – usually temporary and resolves once the product is absorbed
- Itching or tingling – more common in very sensitive skin or when applied to compromised skin barriers
- Allergic contact dermatitis – rare but possible, particularly in individuals allergic to other members of the legume family
- Stinging around the eyes – may occur if the product migrates into the eye area
If you notice any of these reactions stop using the product immediately and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 (non comedogenic)
This extract is water based contains negligible oils and is used at low levels so it does not create the waxy film that can trap debris inside pores.
It is therefore considered safe for acne prone and breakout prone skin.
No studies or user reports link it to increased blackheads whiteheads or interference with common acne actives.
Summary
Lathyrus Odoratus Leaf Extract acts mainly as a skin conditioner delivering hydration and barrier support through its naturally occurring sugars and amino acids which leaves skin feeling soft smooth and calm.
Although it is not yet a household name like aloe or hyaluronic acid it is quietly appearing in more hydrating creams mists and soothing gels thanks to its lightweight feel and plant origin.
Existing research and real world use point to a high safety profile with minimal risk of irritation or pore clogging. As with any new skincare ingredient it is wise to perform a quick patch test before full use to confirm personal tolerance.