Rosa Davurica Leaf 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 Rosa Davurica Leaf Extract?

Rosa Davurica Leaf Extract is a plant based ingredient obtained from the leaves of Rosa davurica, a hardy wild rose that grows across parts of China, Korea and far-eastern Russia. The leaves are naturally rich in water-binding sugars, soothing flavonoids and antioxidant polyphenols that help defend the plant against environmental stress, qualities that are valuable in skin care as well.

Wild rose leaves have been used in traditional beauty rituals for centuries to freshen and soften the skin. Modern interest took off when researchers noted the leaf’s high content of moisture-locking compounds, leading formulators to explore it as a gentle alternative to synthetic humectants. Today the extract is produced by harvesting the leaves, drying them, then steeping them in a mixture of water and food-grade solvents. The solution is filtered, gently concentrated and standardized so each batch delivers consistent activity.

You will most often see Rosa Davurica Leaf Extract in hydrating toners, sheet masks, daily moisturizers, soothing after-sun gels, anti aging serums and overnight sleeping creams where long-lasting water retention and comfort are key selling points.

Rosa Davurica Leaf Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This botanical brings two main benefits to a formula:

  • Humectant – attracts water from the environment and draws it into the upper layers of the skin, helping keep the complexion plump and dewy throughout the day
  • Skin conditioning – leaves a lightweight film that smooths texture, reduces flakiness and supports a soft comfortable feel without heaviness

Who Can Use Rosa Davurica Leaf Extract

Thanks to its gentle, water binding nature Rosa Davurica Leaf Extract is generally well tolerated by all skin types. Dry and dehydrated complexions benefit most from its humectant effect while oily, combination and sensitive skins appreciate the lightweight feel that adds moisture without heaviness. The only group that may need extra caution is anyone with a known allergy to roses or other members of the Rosaceae family because cross reactions are possible.

The extract is 100 percent plant derived with no animal sourced components so it is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians provided the finished formula is certified cruelty free.

No specific warnings have been issued for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The ingredient is not thought to penetrate deeply or act hormonally but this is not medical advice and expectant or nursing parents should run any product containing it past their doctor to be safe.

Rosa Davurica Leaf Extract is not known to make skin more sensitive to sunlight and can be used in morning or evening routines without increasing the risk of sunburn. Standard daytime SPF use is, of course, still recommended.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Individual responses to topical ingredients differ so the following list covers potential side effects only. Most users will not encounter these issues when the extract is included at normal cosmetic levels by a reputable manufacturer.

  • Mild redness or stinging on very reactive skin
  • Contact dermatitis in those allergic to roses or related plants
  • Rare delayed hypersensitivity manifesting as small itchy bumps
  • Exacerbation of existing eczema if the barrier is severely compromised

If any irritation or unexpected reaction occurs discontinue use immediately and seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional or dermatologist.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5

Rosa Davurica Leaf Extract is almost entirely composed of water soluble humectant sugars and polyphenols with negligible oils or waxes, so it does not clog pores or sit heavily on the skin. Formulas that include it are usually lightweight gels, toners or serums that rinse clean in normal cleansing routines.

Acne-prone and breakout-prone users can generally use products containing this extract without worrying about extra congestion.

If a finished product that features the extract also contains richer emollients or occlusive agents, the overall formula, not the extract itself, may influence pore clogging potential.

Summary

Rosa Davurica Leaf Extract acts mainly as a humectant and skin conditioning agent, drawing water into the upper layers of the skin then leaving a thin comforting veil that smooths texture. Its naturally occurring sugars lock in hydration while antioxidant flavonoids add a hint of environmental protection.

While not yet as famous as rosehip oil or rose water, this leaf extract is gaining quiet popularity among formulators who want a gentle plant based hydrator that feels weightless.

Safety data show it is low risk for irritation or sensitization at the levels used in cosmetics. That said, every complexion is unique so it is always wise to patch test a new product before full-face application.

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