Plumeria Obtusa Leaf Cell 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 Plumeria Obtusa Leaf Cell Extract?

Plumeria obtusa is the evergreen frangipani tree known for its glossy leaves and fragrant white blossoms. Plumeria Obtusa Leaf Cell Extract comes from cultured cells taken from those leaves rather than from whole harvested plants. In the lab small leaf samples are placed in a nutrient rich medium where they multiply under controlled light and temperature. The resulting cell culture is filtered then blended with skin friendly solvents and stabilizers to create a concentrated extract. This method protects wild trees, keeps batches consistent and allows formulators to tap into the leaf’s natural defense compounds. Chemically the extract is rich in polyphenols, flavonoids and other antioxidants that the plant makes to guard itself from sun and stress. You will usually spot this ingredient in serums, anti aging creams, after sun gels, sheet masks and protective day moisturizers where it helps keep the formula gentle yet effective.

Plumeria Obtusa Leaf Cell Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This botanical brings two main perks to skin care formulas

  • Antioxidant: The leaf’s polyphenols neutralize free radicals created by UV rays and pollution which helps slow the look of premature lines and keeps skin tone more even
  • Skin protecting: By reinforcing the skin’s own barrier and calming oxidative stress the extract supports resilience against daily aggressors leading to a softer healthier appearance

Who Can Use Plumeria Obtusa Leaf Cell Extract

Plumeria Obtusa Leaf Cell Extract is lightweight and non greasy so it suits most skin types including dry, oily, combination and sensitive. It is not known to clog pores or trigger excess oil, making it friendly for acne prone complexions as well. People with very reactive or fragrance intolerant skin should still review complete ingredient lists since a finished product might contain added scent from the same plant.

The extract is made from cultured plant cells without animal derivatives which means it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians.

No specific risks are documented for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the extract is used topically in typical cosmetic concentrations. This is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should confirm all skincare choices with a qualified healthcare professional.

The ingredient does not cause photosensitivity so it can be used in daytime products, provided you maintain regular sun protection habits. No other notable restrictions are known at normal usage levels.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions vary from person to person. The issues listed below are potential, and most users will not experience them when the extract is included in a properly formulated product.

  • Temporary redness or mild irritation
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to plumeria or related botanicals
  • Stinging on compromised or freshly exfoliated skin

If any unpleasant reaction occurs stop use and seek guidance from a healthcare professional

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1/5. Plumeria Obtusa Leaf Cell Extract is a lightweight water compatible botanical with no heavy oils or waxes that could block pores. It is mainly composed of polyphenols and small molecular weight antioxidants that rinse away easily and do not sit in sebaceous follicles. Because the extract is usually added at low percentages in formulas aimed at soothing and protecting skin it earns a low likelihood of causing comedones.

Suitable for acne prone skin: yes, most breakout prone users can use products containing this ingredient without extra concern.

Since the extract is carried in different bases, check the full ingredient list to make sure the rest of the formula aligns with your pore clogging tolerance.

Summary

Plumeria Obtusa Leaf Cell Extract supplies antioxidant defense and barrier support by delivering polyphenols that neutralize free radicals plus bioactive compounds that help calm irritation. These actions team up to keep skin looking smooth, even and resilient against everyday stress.

You will not yet see this extract in every beauty aisle but its eco friendly lab grown origin and gentle performance are helping it show up in more modern serums, masks and daily moisturizers.

Current research and real world use point to a strong safety profile with very low risk of irritation or pore clogging. Still, everyone’s skin is unique so it is smart to patch test any new product that lists Plumeria Obtusa Leaf Cell Extract before adding it to your routine.

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