Narcissus Triandrus 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 Narcissus Triandrus Extract?

Narcissus Triandrus Extract is taken from the entire Narcissus triandrus plant, a delicate daffodil that belongs to the amaryllis family. The plant is rich in natural compounds such as alkaloids, phenolics and sugars that help protect the flower from stress in the wild. These same compounds are valued in skincare because they can shield skin from everyday damage and support a healthy look.

Historically daffodils have held an honored spot in gardens and folk beauty rituals across Europe. Modern cosmetic labs began studying Narcissus species for their antioxidant traits in the late 20th century, leading to refined extraction methods that capture the plant’s active molecules while removing unwanted material. Today manufacturers harvest the flowers, stems and bulbs, dry them gently and then run them through a water-or-glycerin or alcohol extraction. The resulting liquid is filtered and concentrated before it is added to formulations.

You will usually find Narcissus Triandrus Extract in serums, anti-aging creams, hydrating masks, brightening lotions and soothing after-sun products where it helps defend skin and keep it feeling soft.

Narcissus Triandrus Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This botanical multitasker offers two key benefits in topical products

  • Antioxidant: Helps neutralize free radicals formed by UV light, pollution and everyday stress. By limiting oxidative damage it supports a fresher, more even-toned complexion and can boost the shelf life of the formula
  • Skin conditioning: Supplies moisture-binding sugars and soothing plant molecules that leave skin feeling smooth, calm and supple which can enhance the overall sensorial feel of creams and masks

Who Can Use Narcissus Triandrus Extract

Narcissus Triandrus Extract is generally well tolerated by most skin types, including normal, dry, combination and oily. Its light antioxidant and hydrating profile means it rarely feels heavy or greasy, making it a friendly option for acne-prone skin too. Very sensitive skin may wish to proceed slowly at first, as any plant extract carries a small risk of irritation if the barrier is already compromised.

The extract is plant derived and no animal by-products are involved in its production, so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians.

No data currently shows that topical Narcissus Triandrus Extract poses a risk to pregnant or breastfeeding women when used in normal cosmetic amounts. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should check with a healthcare professional before adding new products, just to be safe.

The ingredient does not make skin more prone to sunburn and there is no known issue with photosensitivity. It can be used morning or night, paired with a daily sunscreen as usual.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to Narcissus Triandrus Extract vary from person to person. The issues listed below are possible but unlikely if the product has been properly formulated and used as directed.

  • Mild redness or stinging
  • Dryness or tightness in very dehydrated skin
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to daffodil family plants
  • Eye irritation if the product is applied too close to the lash line

If any discomfort, persistent redness or rash appears stop use and consult a healthcare professional

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1/5. Narcissus Triandrus Extract is usually delivered in a light water or glycerin base and does not contain heavy oils or waxes that tend to clog pores. Its main molecules are small antioxidants and sugars that sit on the skin surface without trapping excess sebum. This low rating means it is generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts. Only when the extract is blended into a very rich cream could the finished product feel pore clogging, in which case the texture of the total formula rather than the extract itself is the concern.

Summary

Narcissus Triandrus Extract brings two key perks to skincare: it fights free radicals through natural antioxidant compounds and it softens skin by providing gentle hydration and soothing plant molecules. These actions help keep the complexion looking fresh and calm.

While not a headline act like vitamin C or retinol, this daffodil extract is gaining quiet traction in niche green beauty lines and seasonal brightening masks thanks to its mild nature and garden inspired story.

Overall the ingredient is considered safe for daily use with a very low risk of irritation or pore blockage when used at normal cosmetic levels. As with any new skincare product a quick patch test on a small area is the smartest way to rule out personal sensitivities before full use.

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