What Is Lavandula Stoechas Flower/Stem Extract?
Lavandula Stoechas Flower/Stem Extract comes from the flowers and stems of Roman lavender, a small aromatic shrub native to the Mediterranean. The plant is valued for its fragrant oil, which contains naturally occurring compounds such as linalool, camphor, terpenes and small amounts of flavonoids and phenolic acids. Centuries ago people used Roman lavender to scent bath water and linens, and that pleasant scent eventually led formulators to explore its softening qualities for skin care. Today the extract is produced by gently macerating the dried blossoms and stems in a food grade solvent or a mix of water and glycerin, then filtering out the plant material to leave a fluid rich in the plant’s lipids and aromatic molecules. You can spot Lavandula Stoechas Flower/Stem Extract in moisturizers, calming face masks, hand creams, body lotions, leave-on hair treatments and even in lightweight facial oils aimed at improving skin softness.
Lavandula Stoechas Flower/Stem Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This botanical serves mainly as an emollient, meaning it helps smooth the surface of skin or hair by filling in tiny gaps and adding a soft, supple feel. When blended into a formula, the extract lays down a light layer of beneficial lipids that can reduce dryness, improve texture and give products a more luxurious slip without feeling greasy.
Who Can Use Lavandula Stoechas Flower/Stem Extract
The extract’s light emollient profile makes it suitable for most skin types, especially normal, dry or combination skin that needs a touch of softness without heavy grease. Oily or acne-prone skin can usually tolerate it as well, but those extremely sensitive to fragrant plant compounds may want to approach with caution, since lavender naturally contains linalool and camphor that could trigger irritation in reactive skin.
Because it is obtained solely from a plant, Lavandula Stoechas Flower/Stem Extract is free of animal derivatives and is considered appropriate for both vegans and vegetarians.
Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals are generally able to use products containing this extract when it appears at the low concentrations common in cosmetics. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should check with a healthcare professional before adding new skincare products to their routine.
The ingredient is not known to cause photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. Regular daytime sun protection is still recommended as part of a complete skincare regimen.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Lavandula Stoechas Flower/Stem Extract depend on individual skin sensitivity. The following list covers potential side effects that could occur, though most users will not experience them when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.
- Irritation, stinging or redness if skin is highly sensitive to fragrant compounds
- Allergic contact dermatitis in those with a specific allergy to lavender or its components such as linalool or camphor
- Worsening of pre-existing skin conditions like eczema or rosacea if the barrier is already compromised
- Rare photosensitive reaction when combined with other sensitizing ingredients, though the extract itself is not phototoxic
If you notice any discomfort, redness or rash after applying a product containing Lavandula Stoechas Flower/Stem Extract discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5. Lavandula Stoechas Flower/Stem Extract is made up mostly of lightweight aromatic lipids that do not have a strong tendency to clog pores. It lacks the heavy waxes and long chain fatty acids that typically raise an ingredient’s comedogenicity. That said skin that is extremely reactive to any oil may still experience issues, though this is uncommon. Overall the extract is generally considered suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts and want a mild botanical emollient. If a formula also contains richer oils or occlusives those could change the overall pore-clogging potential.
Summary
Lavandula Stoechas Flower/Stem Extract works primarily as a gentle emollient that smooths skin and hair by depositing a fine layer of plant lipids. It helps soften texture, reduce flakiness and add a light silky slip to a wide range of products. While not as famous as classic lavender oil it appears in an increasing number of moisturizers, masks and leave-on treatments because formulators appreciate its pleasant aroma and mild feel.
The ingredient is considered low risk for most users, with irritation or allergy mainly limited to those already sensitive to fragrant plant compounds. As with any new skincare ingredient it is wise to perform a small patch test when trying a fresh product to ensure personal compatibility.