Pleiogynium Timoriense Fruit 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: July 1, 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 Pleiogynium Timoriense Fruit Extract?

Pleiogynium Timoriense Fruit Extract comes from the dark purple fruit of the Pleiogynium timoriense tree, a member of the cashew family that grows across Australia and parts of Southeast Asia. Traditionally the fruit has been enjoyed as bush tucker by Indigenous communities, valued for its tart taste and vitamin content. Skincare brands took notice when early studies showed the fruit holds natural sugars, mild acids and antioxidants that can soften and refresh skin. To create the extract, ripe fruit is cleaned, crushed and soaked in a food-grade solvent, often water or glycerin, then filtered to remove solids. The final liquid retains the fruit’s beneficial compounds without its pulp or seeds. You are most likely to find this extract in face masks, hydrating serums, lightweight moisturizers and after-sun gels where a quick burst of skin comfort is desired.

Pleiogynium Timoriense Fruit Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This ingredient is prized for one main job in skincare.

As a skin-conditioning agent it helps the surface of the skin feel smoother and look more supple. The natural sugars attract moisture, the gentle acids encourage a fresher appearance and the antioxidants assist in protecting the skin from everyday stress. Formulators add it to boost hydration without heaviness and to give products a soft, pleasant finish.

Who Can Use Pleiogynium Timoriense Fruit Extract

This extract suits most skin types including dry, normal and combination skin because it delivers light moisture without extra oil. Oily or acne-prone skin can also benefit since the ingredient is non-greasy, yet anyone dealing with active breakouts should watch for individual triggers. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it well thanks to its mild nature, though people with known allergies to plants in the cashew family might prefer caution.

The extract is entirely plant derived, contains no animal by-products and is typically processed with vegan-friendly solvents, so it fits both vegan and vegetarian lifestyles.

No specific warnings link Pleiogynium Timoriense Fruit Extract to pregnancy or breastfeeding. It is considered gentle with low absorption, yet 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 the sun and there are no reports of it interacting with sunscreen. As with any plant based raw material, storage and handling quality can affect performance, so choosing reputable brands helps ensure the best experience.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Pleiogynium Timoriense Fruit Extract differ from person to person. The following are potential side effects and are uncommon when the ingredient is used correctly in a finished formula.

  • Transient redness or warmth shortly after application
  • Mild itching or a prickly feeling on very sensitive skin
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to cashew, mango or related plants
  • Stinging on cracked or freshly exfoliated skin
  • Rare discoloration or blotchiness if layered with strong chemical exfoliants

If any of these effects occur stop using the product and seek advice from a qualified health professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Comedogenic rating: 1 out of 5. Pleiogynium Timoriense Fruit Extract is largely water based with only trace amounts of natural oils, so it does not readily clog pores. The sugars and mild acids dissolve easily and rinse away without leaving a heavy film, making buildup unlikely. Because the extract is usually used at low percentages in lightweight formulas, its overall pore-blocking potential stays minimal. People who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts can generally use products containing this extract without added concern, although the rest of the formula always matters. If the extract is combined with rich butters or waxes, the final product could still feel greasy on very oily skin.

Summary

Pleiogynium Timoriense Fruit Extract acts mainly as a skin-conditioning agent, helping skin feel smoother, look plumper and stay comfortable. It draws in water with its natural sugars, offers a gentle brightening lift thanks to mild fruit acids and supplies antioxidants that shield the surface from routine environmental stress. While not yet a household name, the extract is slowly appearing in hydrating serums, sheet masks and after-sun gels where a light, refreshing finish is valued. Current safety data show it is well tolerated by most users, with allergy risk limited to those sensitive to plants in the cashew family. As with any new skincare ingredient, it is wise to patch test a fresh product first and watch how your skin responds.

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