Prunus Triloba Fruit Water: 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 Prunus Triloba Fruit Water?

Prunus Triloba Fruit Water is the clear watery liquid collected when the small plum like fruits of Prunus triloba are gently steam distilled. The rising steam breaks open the fruit cells carrying light aromatic compounds, natural sugars, trace vitamins and soothing plant acids into the vapor. When the vapor cools it condenses into an aqueous solution that keeps much of the fruit’s calming antioxidants yet contains no pulp or heavy oils. Flowering almond trees have been grown in East Asia and Europe for centuries mostly for their ornamental pink blossoms, but Korean formulators began experimenting with the fruit distillate in the early 2000s as a softer alternative to plain water in skin care. Today this ingredient shows up in toners, face mists, sheet masks, after sun gels, lightweight moisturizers and anti aging serums where brands want to replace part of the formula’s water with something that adds a touch of skin loving activity.

Prunus Triloba Fruit Water’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

In formulas this fruit water mainly serves two jobs that translate into noticeable skin benefits.

  • Skin conditioning – provides a mild dose of fruit derived humectants and antioxidants that help the skin surface feel hydrated, soothed and refreshed
  • Emollient – leaves a soft flexible film that smooths rough spots and improves the overall feel of the product without any greasy residue

Who Can Use Prunus Triloba Fruit Water

This gentle distillate is well tolerated by nearly all skin types. Oily and acne prone complexions appreciate its weightless hydrating feel while dry, sensitive and mature skin benefit from the light humectant boost and soothing antioxidants. It is not known to clog pores or trigger excess oil so combination skin can also enjoy it. There are no specific concerns that make it unsuitable for any category of skin.

Because Prunus Triloba Fruit Water is sourced solely from plant material and undergoes steam distillation without animal by products it fits vegan and vegetarian standards.

Current research shows no ingredients inside the distillate that raise red flags for pregnancy or breastfeeding when used topically in typical cosmetic amounts. This is not medical advice and pregnant or nursing users should consult their doctor before starting any new skincare product just to be safe.

The ingredient has no known links to photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It can be used in both daytime and nighttime routines without altering normal sun protection practices.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Prunus Triloba Fruit Water can vary from person to person. The following lists potential side effects though most users will never experience them when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.

  • Mild redness or stinging in very sensitive skin, usually temporary
  • Allergic contact dermatitis if someone has an uncommon allergy to members of the Rosaceae plant family
  • Eye irritation if the liquid is sprayed directly into the eyes
  • Interaction with potent actives such as strong acids or retinoids in the same routine could theoretically increase sensation for some users

If any irritation, swelling or persistent discomfort occurs stop using the product and seek medical advice if symptoms do not subside quickly.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0/5. Prunus Triloba Fruit Water is almost entirely water with only trace aromatic compounds and fruit sugars so it lacks the heavy lipids that can plug pores. Its watery nature means virtually no risk of contributing to blackheads or breakouts.

This zero rating makes it a comfortable option for acne-prone or congested skin.

Clogging is still possible if the finished product also contains richer oils or waxes so always look at the complete formula rather than judging by this single ingredient.

Summary

Prunus Triloba Fruit Water conditions skin by delivering light humectants and antioxidants then leaves a smooth flexible feel that doubles as a subtle emollient. It supplies these benefits without weight or greasy residue.

Though not a mainstream star it is quietly popping up in Korean style toners mists gels and sheet masks as brands look to replace plain water with a gentler fruit-based alternative.

Overall it is considered safe for all skin types with a negligible chance of irritation or pore clogging. As with any new skincare step perform a quick patch test the first time you try a product containing Prunus Triloba Fruit Water to confirm personal compatibility.

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