Rubus Idaeus/Ursinus 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: 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 Rubus Idaeus/Ursinus Fruit Extract?

Rubus Idaeus/Ursinus Fruit Extract comes from a hybrid berry that blends the familiar red raspberry (Rubus idaeus) with the Pacific blackberry (Rubus ursinus). The extract carries many of the berries’ natural goodies such as vitamin C, anthocyanins, and other polyphenols that act as antioxidants. Berries have been prized in folk beauty routines for ages but the cosmetic industry started using this specific hybrid extract only in recent years when consumers began asking for cleaner plant-based ingredients.

Manufacturers collect ripe fruit, wash it, then crush it into a pulp. The pulp is soaked in a gentle food-grade solvent like water or a water-glycerin mix to pull out the skin-friendly actives. After steeping, the liquid is filtered, concentrated, and sometimes spray-dried into a powder that is easy to add to creams and lotions.

You will most often spot Rubus Idaeus/Ursinus Fruit Extract in antioxidant serums, daily moisturizers, anti aging creams, sheet masks, brightening treatments, lip balms, and even some gentle shampoos or conditioners that aim to protect hair from environmental stress.

Rubus Idaeus/Ursinus Fruit Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

In formulas this berry extract delivers one main function that makes it a popular pick.

Antioxidant: The high level of natural polyphenols helps neutralize free radicals caused by sun exposure and pollution. This supports the skin’s own defense system, which can make the complexion look fresher and slow the appearance of fine lines.

Who Can Use Rubus Idaeus/Ursinus Fruit Extract

This gentle berry extract suits nearly all skin types including dry, normal, combination and oily skin because it does not add heavy oils or clog pores. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it well thanks to its low acidity and mild nature, though anyone with a known raspberry or blackberry allergy should proceed carefully.

The ingredient is plant derived with no animal by-products, making it appropriate for both vegetarians and vegans.

Current research shows no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the extract is used topically in regular cosmetic concentrations. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should run any skincare product past a qualified doctor to be on the safe side.

Rubus Idaeus/Ursinus Fruit Extract does not increase photosensitivity so it can be used morning or night without raising the risk of sunburn, though daily sunscreen is always recommended for overall skin health.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Rubus Idaeus/Ursinus Fruit Extract vary from person to person. The points below outline potential issues only. When the ingredient is formulated and used correctly most people experience no problems.

  • Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to berries
  • Mild redness or stinging if applied to broken or very compromised skin
  • Temporary surface staining on very fair skin when high concentrations of unrefined extract are used
  • Interaction irritation when layered with strong exfoliating acids or retinoids in the same routine

If any discomfort or visible reaction develops discontinue use and seek advice from a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5 (non-comedogenic)

Rubus Idaeus/Ursinus Fruit Extract is mostly composed of water soluble antioxidants with virtually no heavy oils or waxes that could block pores. It absorbs quickly, leaves no greasy residue and is typically used at low percentages in formulas, all of which keep the likelihood of clogging pores at practically zero.

Because of this, the ingredient is generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.

One thing to note is that the overall pore-friendliness of a finished product will still depend on the rest of the formula. Pairing the extract with heavier butters or comedogenic oils can change how acne-prone skin reacts.

Summary

Rubus Idaeus/Ursinus Fruit Extract brings antioxidant power to skincare and haircare. Its polyphenols and vitamin C scavenge free radicals created by sunlight and pollution, helping maintain a fresher, more even-toned complexion and delaying visible signs of aging.

The extract is gaining moderate popularity as brands look for recognizable plant ingredients that offer clean beauty appeal, although it is not yet as common as classics like green tea or vitamin C derivatives.

Current data suggests the extract is safe for regular topical use across most skin types with minimal risk of irritation or clogged pores. As with any new cosmetic ingredient it is wise to perform a simple patch test when trying a product that features Rubus Idaeus/Ursinus Fruit Extract, just to be on the safe side.

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